Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Pros and Cons of Living in Penzance

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 10, 2025

Summary: The pros of living in Penzance, UK include its stunning coastal scenery, its mild climate, and its vibrant local culture. The town is also well-connected to the rest of the country, with good transport links to London and other major cities. On the other hand, the cost of living in Penzance is relatively high, and the town can be quite crowded during the summer months.

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

What are the pros and cons of living in Penzance?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Penzance responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Penzance appreciate the town's picturesque harbour, its mild climate, and its proximity to the stunning beaches of Cornwall. They also enjoy the friendly locals, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the variety of cultural attractions. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the cost of living in Penzance to be quite high, and the lack of public transportation can be inconvenient," said one expat in Penzance.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation
Connect

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do expats in Penzance appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Penzance appreciate the town's relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. They also enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and the abundance of outdoor activities available in the area. The town's rich cultural heritage is also a draw, with its many historic sites, museums, and galleries. Additionally, the local cuisine is a highlight, with its fresh seafood, pasties, and other traditional dishes. Finally, the town's vibrant music and arts scene is another attraction, with its many festivals, concerts, and other events," explained one expat living in Penzance.

CORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do expats find most challenging?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Penzance is the language barrier. English is the official language, but many locals also speak Cornish, which can be difficult for expats to understand. Additionally, the local culture is quite traditional and conservative, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Finally, the weather in Penzance can be unpredictable, with strong winds and rain common throughout the year, which can be a challenge for expats who are used to more temperate climates," explained one expat living in Penzance.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

CORNERSTONE Relocation
CORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland.
Learn More

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland.
Learn More

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides