7 Best Places to Live in Manchester

Manchester, a lively city in the heart of North West England, offers a mixture of culture, history, and modern living. The city centre is known for its buzzing nightlife, ideal for students and young people. Meanwhile, the surrounding residential areas provide a more peaceful environment, perfect for families or those who prefer to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With excellent transport links, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds—with easy access to any part of the city when needed. 

Manchester has something for everyone, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to decide where to live. To make things a little easier, we have compiled a list of the best places to live in Manchester, providing an overview of each location and its offerings. 

‍

1. Didsbury

‍

Didsbury is widely considered one of Manchester’s most popular neighbourhoods. Divided into East and West Didsbury, you’ll find a selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

‍

With its scenic location along the River Mersey, Didsbury offers some of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces, making it perfect for both families and professionals alike. For more information on what Didsbury has to offer for new residents, take a look at Time Out’s local guide to Didsbury Village. 

‍

2. Chorlton

‍

Chorlton is the perfect spot for those seeking a relaxed and creative atmosphere. Famous for its organic markets, artisanal food, and independent shops, it’s a neighbourhood that particularly draws young people and creatives. Chorlton also has its water park and many nature reserves, which offer fantastic opportunities for outdoor leisure and relaxation.

‍

Trip Advisor has also compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Chorlton based on customer reviews if you are still looking for some inspiration on what Chorlton has to offer. 

‍

3. Ancoats

‍

Once an industrial district with a high crime rate, Ancoats has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years and improvements are still being made. It’s now one of the trendiest areas in Manchester, packed with stylish apartments, award-winning restaurants, and cultural hotspots. 

‍

Time Out named it the 13th coolest neighbourhood in the world – and the canalside atmosphere adds to its charm.

‍

4. Castlefield

‍

Castlefield is perfect for those who love city living with a touch of history. The area offers a mixture of new bars and restaurants, cobblestone streets, Roman forts, and old mills. In 1982, Castlefield became the UK’s first Urban Heritage Park, which means you won’t find any traffic. However, transport links offer easy access to Manchester city centre. This quaint, cobbled street area of Manchester has something for everyone.

‍

5. Altrincham

‍

Although technically a market town in Greater Manchester, Altrincham deserves a spot on this list for its award-winning market, excellent schools, and community feel. The area offers a mix of period homes and modern developments, making it popular with families. The area benefits from excellent transport connections, including the Metrolink and train services, offering easy access to Manchester city centre and beyond. Altrincham is now home to celebrity footballers and has earned the title of England's best high street.

‍

6. Salford Quays

‍

For those drawn to waterfront living, Salford Quays is an excellent choice. Home to MediaCityUK, a hub for the creative industries, Salford Quays offers modern apartments, cultural attractions like The Lowry, and stunning views of the Manchester Ship Canal. For more inspiration on things to do in Salford and places to visit take a look at the Visit Salford website. 

‍

7. Heaton Moor

Just on the outskirts of Manchester, in Stockport, Heaton Moor combines both historic charm and contemporary living spaces. Known for its Victorian and Edwardian homes, the area offers a blend of architectural beauty and modern comforts. The streets are lined with independent shops, and cosy cafes, offering a warm, community-driven atmosphere that residents truly appreciate. Heaton Moor is a peaceful, family-friendly area, whilst still being well-connected to the hustle and bustle of Manchester. With its excellent schools and local parks, it’s an ideal location for families and those looking to settle down in a neighbourhood that balances relaxation and connectivity. 

‍

Moving with a family? This helpful guide from Days Out With Kids provides fantastic ideas for family-friendly activities and days out in Heaton Moor. 

‍

Mortgage Advice in Manchester

‍

Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for your first home, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Manchester might just be the place for you. At Bell Financial Solutions, we can help you find the perfect mortgage to start your journey into your new home in Manchester. Providing a personalised service, tailored to your needs and requirements, we work to make sure the mortgage process is a stress-free one. 

‍

If you’re considering making Manchester your next home or looking for financial guidance, our team at Bell Financial Solutions can help. Visit our contact page to get in touch or to learn more about how we can support your financial goals.

‍