Bradford is a city full of culture and vibrancy with plenty of surrounding Yorkshire countryside. It’s also known for having some of the best Indian food in the UK and is a neighbouring city of Leeds. In 2020, a record number of people moved from London to Bradford, further highlighting its appeal. If you’re thinking of moving to Bradford, the City of Culture for 2025, then you should read on to find out about local house prices, living costs and popular things to do and see.
A brief history of Bradford
Historically, Bradford was part of the West Riding of Yorkshire and grew in popularity during the 19th century. During this time, it was an international centre of textile manufacture with a focus on wool. Bradford was a boomtown of the Industrial Revolution and quickly became the world’s wool capital. It was named a city in 1897 and has since become the first UNESCO City of Film, thanks to attractions like the National Science and Media Museum.
Where is Bradford
Bradford is a popular city in West Yorkshire and the second-largest subdivision of the West Yorkshire Built-up Area after Leeds, which it’s located just under nine miles from. Manchester is around an hour’s drive from Bradford. Its proximity to large cities makes it a popular commuter base.
Moving to Bradford
There are plenty of property types in Bradford, whether it’s Victorian conversions in the city centre or grand terraces on the outskirts. An increasing number of modern apartment blocks are also becoming available in Bradford.
Buying in Bradford
The average sold price in Bradford is £147,370, which is considerably lower than the UK national average of £329,547. Expect to pay an average of £261,182 for a detached home, £115,314 for a terraced house and £92,902 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Bradford, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Bradford
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £600 per month in Bradford, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £700 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £850 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Bradford, you can expect to pay slightly lower prices compared to the rest of the UK for everyday living. A meal for one person is around £10, while a cappuccino and a pint of milk cost about £2.50p and £90p respectively.
Utility bills are also lower than the national average (UK average £155) in Bradford, at around £125 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal. Expect to pay around £26 per month for broadband.
Living in Bradford
Open spaces
The city has several parks, including Peel Park. Here, you can wander around Green Flag status park and enjoy the calming lake. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is around 20 miles from the city and has moors, valleys, hills and villages.
Transport links
Bradford is served by two train stations: Bradford Forster Square and Bradford Interchange. They offer services to Blackpool, Huddersfield, Leeds, Manchester Victoria and York. The city is just a 30-minute drive to Leeds Bradford International Airport.
Shopping
Explore the two indoor markets within the Shopping Centres and buy from regional suppliers selling fish, meat, fruit and vegetables. There is another popular shopping centre with a range of high-street favourites.
Eateries
Bradford is well known for its fantastic Indian food, there is even a café-bar concept with four floors and a menu of Indian and eclectic food. If you’re after more cuisine options, try seasonal specials, pizzas and Italian classics.
Nightlife
Bradford has several bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out with varied drinks menus and dancefloors. Leeds is also nearby and has plenty of nightlife options.
Art & culture
Bradford is a cultural city with plenty of galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit. Cartwright Hall Art Gallery has collections from the 19th and 20th centuries, while the Alhambra Theatre puts on entertaining ballet, opera and comedy shows for guests.
Things to do
Head to The National Science and Media Museum, where visitors can discover science and culture of light and sound technology. There are three cinema screens here, including an IMAX screen. Other highlights include interactive galleries and a collection of photography, film and TV.
What’s not to like?
It might feel a little small compared to its nearby neighbours, Leeds.
Who lives there?
Bradford has a population of more than 536,000 and a median age of 36.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 124mbps in Bradford, which is faster than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Bradford averages around 146 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Bradford
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Bradford. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: October 13th, 2022
