Port cities are popular areas in the UK, and Southampton is an excellent option for anyone moving to the coast. It has many admirable traits, including a thriving city centre full of rich culture and history and some of the greenest spaces in the UK. Southampton caters to all demographics, from students to families to retirees. And in this guide, we’re finding out what it’s like to live here if you’re thinking of moving to Southampton.
A brief history of Southampton
Southampton is known as being the departing port of the Titanic and the home of the Spitfire, which first flew in 1936. Its history dates back to the Stone Ages when it was an important trading port and defensive outpost for nearby Winchester.
Where is Southampton
Southampton is a port city in the county of Hampshire on the South Coast of England. It’s located around 70 miles southwest of London and 15 miles west of Portsmouth. Other nearby areas of interest include Winchester and the New Forest.
Moving to Southampton
The Cultural Centre is the place to find brand-new homes. Here, there are townhouses and modern apartments with pleasant views across the River Itchen. Families tend to head towards Hedge End, while Bassett offers easy access to the local golf clubs.
Buying in Southampton
The average sold price in Southampton is £323,732, which is slightly lower than the UK national average of £329,547. Expect to pay an average of £475,418 for a detached home, £255,952 for a terraced house and £180,338 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Southampton, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Southampton
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £750 per month in Southampton, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,050 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,250 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Southampton, you can expect to pay slightly lower prices to the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £10, while a cappuccino is about £2.75 and a pint of milk is £1.
Utility bills are also lower than the national average in Southampton, at around £137 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (UK average £155). Broadband is marginally higher than the average at about £35 per month.
Living in Southampton
Open spaces
There are plenty of green spaces and coastal walks to discover in Southampton. Whether it’s nature reserves, country parks, beaches or spending time at the nearby New Forest, you can go on hikes, trails, cycling routes and more.
Transport links
Southampton is served by two major train stations: Airport Parkway and Central. Fast trains arrive at London Waterloo in just under 90 minutes, while services to Bristol are also available. Other transport methods include the M3 for motorists, direct ferries to the Isle of Wight and an international airport with flights to Spain, Netherlands, France and more.
Shopping
WestQuay is the place to be for a spot of retail therapy with its big-name shops like John lewis. For independent options, head to Bedford Place and Portswood, where you’ll find boutique shops with everything from vintage items to high-end fashion.
Eateries
There is a variety of flavours on offer in Southampton, with an eatery likely to meet your dining needs. Blue Island is a local neighbourhood spot serving up authentic Greek bites, while The Oxford Brasserie is the place to go for a bright and airy modern brasserie serving Italian dishes.
Nightlife
Southampton is a popular university city, so there’s no shortage of places to go for a night out. Clowns Wine Bar and Jesters Nightclub is a funky venue with dance floors and a bar. For something more low-key serving a range of impressive cocktails, try 1932 Southampton.
Art & culture
The Civic Centre is where you will find the Southampton City Art Gallery. It opened in 1939 and today features an art collection covering six centuries of European art history. If you’re looking for local maritime history, visit the SeaCity Museum. It’s a hands-on venue exploring shipping and the sea.
Things to do
More than 90 listed buildings and 30 ancient monuments are located in Southampton. Whether you’re visiting England’s best-preserved town halls or exploring vaults, there’s plenty to do for anyone who wants to get to know the city’s history.
What’s not to like?
As a university city, Southampton’s city centre might be a tad on the lively side for those looking for quieter settings.
Who lives there?
Southampton has a population of more than 254,000 and a median age of 56. Southampton is ranked one of the happiest and friendliest cities to live in.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 88mbps in Southampton, which is much higher than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Southampton averages around 123 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Southampton
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Southampton. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: May 4th, 2022
