This guide looks at what you can expect if you’re moving to Salford, from house prices to things to do and see. Many often confuse Salford and Manchester as one and the same. They are two separate cities. Both cities have benefited from regeneration over the years. With Salford now a thriving hub for creativity and entertainment.
A brief history of Salford
Salford rose to prominence after becoming a major cotton and silk spinning and weaving factory town in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1926 Salford was granted city status and in the 20th century, it suffered after an economic decline in the 20th century. In the 21st century, Salford saw a boost with regeneration. Mainly in areas like Salford Quays, which created MediaCityUK.
Where is Salford
Salford is located in the metropolitan borough of Greater Manchester along the River Irwell, which forms part of its boundary with Manchester. It’s just five miles from Manchester City centre.
Moving to Salford
Regeneration is the name of the game in Salford, which means there are a plethora of new-build developments with on-site amenities like concierge services, gyms, swimming pools and residents’ areas. Salford Quays has a selection of homes with river views. Central Salford, is currently benefiting from a £650m regeneration programme.
Buying in Salford
In Salford, the average sold price is £218,832. This is lower than the UK national average of £329,547. Expect to pay an average of £413,063 for a detached home, £205,257 for a terraced house and £162,433 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Salford, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Salford
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £1,000 per month in Salford, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,250 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,500 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Salford, you can expect to pay lower prices than the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £10. A cappuccino and a pint of milk cost about £2.50 and £0.90p respectively.
in Salford the utility bills are higher than the national average. The bills are around £175 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (UK average £155). The broadband also matches the UK average of about £28 per month.
Living in Salford
Open spaces
You will find plenty of open spaces in Salford, with Buile Hill one of the most popular. It’s a Grade II-listed park recognised as a Park of National Historic Importance. Highlights include outdoor exercise equipment and a picnic area.
Transport links
Salford benefits from two main train stations, Salford Central and Salford Crescent. Journey times to Manchester take around 10 minutes. A tram service in the city, runs from Eccles into the heart of Manchester.
Shopping
There are plenty of shopping opportunities, whether you’re heading to Salford Quays for Quayside MediaCityUK. Manchester city centre is a short journey away and offers some of the best retail experiences in the UK, including the Arndale Shopping Centre, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.
Eateries
From riverside dining to Michelin-star restaurants, Salford has a range of eateries to meet most tastes. Try one of the stylish restaurants near River Irwell and enjoy Salford’s iconic views.
Nightlife
World-class nightlife is practically on your doorstep in Salford. Manchester and Salford are full of lively nightclubs and bars!
Art & culture
Pay a visit to Salford Museum and Art Gallery and discover a permanent Victorian gallery, art, sculpture and temporary contemporary exhibitions. For entertainment, The Lowry is a famous theatre and artistic space in Salford Quays with a range of plays, galleries and exhibitions.
Things to do
Ordsall Hall near Salford Quays offers a little slice of history with its exhibitions and heritage talks. If you’re after a sporting day out, visit Old Trafford to watch Manchester United or The Etihad Stadium to see Manchester City play.
What’s not to like?
The regeneration might not be to everyone’s liking, as Salford is essentially now a bustling metropolis without much period character.
Who lives there?
Salford has a population of just 254,000 and a median age of 37.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed in Salford is 79mbps. Making it higher than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Salford averages around 122 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Salford
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of certain properties and details about the local area of Salford. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: May 26th, 2022
