Known as a popular tourist destination, Poole has evolved to become a residential hotspot thanks to its seaside location and laid-back way of life. Home to award-winning blue flag beaches, such as Sandbanks Beach, and a charming old town, Poole is often right at the top of the list for movers looking to escape to the coast. In this guide, we’ve got everything you need to know about moving to Poole, from house prices to everything there is to do and see.
A brief history of Poole
The name ‘Poole’ was first used in the 12th century, around the time when the town became known as an important port. Poole also had links with North America and was one of the busiest ports in Britain during the 18th century. It was a primary departing point for the Normandy landings during World War II.
Where is Poole
Poole is a coastal town in Dorset on the south coast of England. It’s located along the famous Jurassic Coast, 21 miles east of Dorchester and just under seven miles of Bournemouth. London is around 112 miles away.
Moving to Poole
From loft-style apartments overlooking the beach to large family homes, there are plenty of property types in Poole. Prices in the Sandbanks tend to be more expensive than in other parts of the town, thanks to the glitzy apartments lining the beach.
Buying in Poole
The average sold price in Poole is £439,853, which is much higher than the UK national average of £329,547. Expect to pay an average of £649,916 for a detached home, £306,382 for a terraced house and £308,077 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Poole, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Poole
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £850 per month in Poole, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,250 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,700 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Poole, you can expect to pay similar prices to the UK national average for everyday living. A meal for one person is around £15, while a cappuccino and a pint of milk cost about £2.75p and 95p respectively.
Utility bills are slightly lower than the national average (UK average £155) in Poole, at around £145 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal. Expect to pay around £29 per month for broadband.
Living in Poole
Open spaces
The beaches are the primary draw in Poole, with many awarded blue flag status. Sandbanks Beach leads the way with its impressive views, fine golden sands and sparkling water. There are also green spaces, including Poole Park, which is adjacent to Poole Harbour.
Transport links
Poole is well connected, with several buses offering services between Bournemouth and Christchurch. The local train station also stops at Bournemouth and Southampton, while drivers benefit from access to several A roads, including the A35, A31 and A350.
Shopping
Poole high street has a mixture of independent shops and established brands. There’s also a Shopping Centre, which has more than 80 stores. The old town is dotted with souvenir shops where you can purchase a Poole collectable for your new home.
Eateries
Being a coastal town, Poole has its fair share of seafood restaurants. Some serve market-fresh fish on rustic wooden tables and even offer cooking courses. If you’re after a different cuisine, than try some of the Italian spots.
Nightlife
The bustling quayside has many bars where you can grab a drink or two. Bournemouth is also a short journey away and has a wide variety of bars and nightclubs.
Art & culture
Head to Poole Museum to learn about the local history of the area. Entry is free, and it’s the most visited free attraction in South West England. You can also discover local arts at the Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts, the largest arts centre in the UK outside London.
Things to do
Poole is near the Jurassic Coast, which stretches for 95 miles and is England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions include the harbour, the largest natural harbour in Europe.
What’s not to like?
It’s certainly not cheap, especially if you want to live in the sought-after Sandbanks area. It’s the fourth most expensive place to live in the world.
Who lives there?
Poole has a population of more than 151,000 and a median age of 42.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 98mbps in Poole, which is much higher than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Poole averages around 57 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Poole
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Poole. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: July 14th, 2022
