As a cathedral city, Lincoln has plenty of history to discover. But it’s also an appealing place to live, thanks to affordable housing and amenities galore, including several retail spots. It was also voted the fifth happiest place to live in the UK. If you’re thinking of moving to Lincoln, this guide is for you.
If you’re considering a move to this East Midlands city we’ve got everything from its history to the type of housing and much more.
A brief history of Lincoln
In 1972, archaeologists found wooden dwellings dating back to the Iron Age in the 1st century. It is believed the name ‘Lincoln’ comes from this era, with Britain’s Celtic inhabitants from the Iron Age naming it after their Brittonic language.
Where is Lincoln?
Lincoln is a cathedral city and county town of Lincolnshire in the East Midlands. It lies 157 miles north of London, 76 miles northeast of Birmingham and just 30 miles northeast of Nottingham. The city is split into Uphill Lincoln and Downhill Lincoln.
Moving to Lincoln
There’s an extensive range of properties in Lincoln, in both the city centre and suburbs. Expect to find Victorian houses with period features, stately homes, cottages and award-winning modern apartments.
Buying in Lincoln
The average sold price in Lincoln is £239,080, which is lower than the UK national average of £251,000. Expect to pay an average of £302,766 for a detached home, £172,097 for a terraced house and £138,496 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Lincoln, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Lincoln
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £655 per month in Lincoln, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £700 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £800 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Lincoln, you can expect to pay similar prices to the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £13, while a cappuccino is about £2.80 and a pint of milk is £0.90p.
Utility bills are in line with the national average in Lincoln at around £155 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (UK average £155). Broadband is also in line with the average at about £30 per month.
Living in Lincoln
Open spaces
Lincoln enjoys rural surroundings, so you have plenty of options when it comes to exploring open spaces. Head to Whisby Nature Reserve and soak up the wildlife and lakes while going on long walks. If you want to stay in the city, visit Temple Gardens and Witham Valley Country Park.
Transport links
Lincoln Central train station provides direct services to London, arriving in around two hours. Other destinations include Sheffield, Nottingham, Doncaster, Stevenage and Peterborough. Motorists have access to the A15, which links to the A1.
Shopping
There’s a variety of shopping options available in Lincoln, whether you’re popping in and out of independent boutiques along cobbled streets or finding a gem in an antique outlet. That’s not all, though; St Mark’s Square retail complex and Waterside Shopping Centre offer a range of brand favourites.
Eateries
You won’t struggle to find a pub, restaurant or café in Lincoln. Favourites with locals are located near Lincoln Castle. Stop by for a great pub grub and enjoy a relaxed spot with a beer garden and real ales.
Nightlife
There are a couple of nightclubs for lively nightlife lasting until the early hours of the morning. If you’re after a more low-key affair, try one of the many bars dotted around the city.
Art & culture
The Royal Theatre is the place to go for musicals and plays, while the Engine Shed is your spot for live music. For art and museums, try Spencer Coleman Fine Art in the city centre and Museum of Lincolnshire Life, which celebrates the culture of the county of Lincolnshire.
Things to do
If you’re looking for historical attractions and landmarks, start with Lincoln’s English Gothic Cathedral and Norman Castle. The cathedral once had a central wooden spire said to be larger than the Great Pyramids of Egypt, while Lincoln Castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century.
What’s not to like?
As far as cities go, Lincoln could be better connected by road. The A15 is the only road taking you out of the city, which means it can feel a little cut off at times.
Who lives there?
Lincoln has a population of more than 291,000 and a median age of just 33.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 20mbps in Lincoln, which is much lower than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Lincoln averages around 119 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Lincoln?
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Lincoln. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: December 6th, 2022
