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Finding Your Next Abode: The Lowdown on Manchester’s Best and Worst Places to Live In
Thinking about moving to Manchester but unsure where to settle? Trust me, I’ve been there.
Manchester isn’t just the home of Oasis and The Stone Roses, it’s a place where each neighborhood has its own distinct vibe – a bit like having your pick of different TV shows to binge.
Whether you’re after trendy cafes in Ancoats or family-friendly parks in Sale, there’s something for everyone. But not all areas are created equal—some, like Harpurhey or Moss Side, come with challenges.
Let’s dive into the best and worst places to live in Manchester, with some real talk about what each neighborhood brings to the table!
What are the best places to live in Manchester?
Didsbury
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Didsbury is a leafy, affluent suburb that’s one of Manchester’s most desirable spots. With its beautiful parks, such as Fletcher Moss, and a strong sense of community, it’s perfect for families.
The schools are excellent, and there’s no shortage of independent cafes and pubs to enjoy. However, all of these perks come at a price—living in Didsbury is expensive, and popular areas can get quite busy, especially on weekends.
Still, it consistently ranks high in resident satisfaction surveys for its balance of city life and suburban calm.
Chorlton
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Chorlton (row 428) offers a bohemian lifestyle with its organic markets, independent shops, and artsy atmosphere.
This creative hub attracts musicians, artists, and eco-conscious families who love the close proximity to nature, including Chorlton and Sale Water Parks.
While it’s one of the coolest places to live in Manchester, rising property prices and parking struggles are the trade-offs.
Ancoats
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Ancoats is Manchester’s trendy, urban oasis, perfect for young professionals. Just a short walk from the city center and the Northern Quarter, this area is packed with cool cafes, award-winning restaurants, and chic bars.
New apartment developments are springing up all the time, adding to its appeal. That said, living in Ancoats can be expensive, and it’s more suited to singles or young couples than families.
Known for spots like Cutting Room Square and foodie heaven, Rudy’s Pizza, Ancoats is a top choice for those seeking a modern lifestyle in the heart of the city.
Sale
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Sale is perfect for families wanting a more suburban lifestyle without breaking the bank. With excellent schools, parks, restaurants (row 1137) and great transport links via the Metrolink, it’s a well-connected, affordable spot compared to other high-demand areas.
However, it lacks the edgy nightlife and cultural scene found in places like Ancoats, so it’s more of a quiet, family-oriented suburb.
Altrincham
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Altrincham has transformed from a sleepy town into one of the most desirable places to live in Manchester. Its bustling market has become a foodie favorite, and the area boasts excellent schools, making it ideal for families.
Altrincham is also well-connected, with easy access to Manchester via the Metrolink. The downside? All this popularity has driven house prices up. Some might also find it a bit too “commuter town” during the day.
Still, with its blend of modern amenities and market town charm, Altrincham consistently ranks as one of the happiest places to live.
What are the worst places to live in Manchester?
Harpurhey
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Harpurhey often tops the list of Manchester’s least desirable areas, primarily due to its high crime rates and lack of green spaces.
However, it does offer some of the most affordable housing in the city, and its proximity to the city center (just three miles away) makes it convenient for commuting.
The area is home to North City Shopping Centre, providing some local amenities, but overall, the quality of life here is lower. Harpurhey ranks low on happiness surveys, though regeneration efforts are slowly being made.
Moss Side
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Moss Side is a culturally rich area known for its diverse community and the vibrant Manchester Caribbean Carnival. However, it has a long-standing reputation for crime and underdevelopment, although improvements are being made.
Despite its challenges, affordable rent and strong community ties keep residents hopeful about its future.
Gorton
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Gorton is another area with affordable housing, making it an option for those on a tighter budget. It’s well-connected to the city by public transport, but the area has struggled with crime and a general lack of investment.
Gorton Monastery is a local highlight, offering a glimpse into the area’s historical past, and it’s close to Belle Vue, a once-famous entertainment complex.
Despite ongoing regeneration projects, Gorton consistently ranks lower in happiness surveys due to its safety concerns and lack of community amenities.
Wythenshawe
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Known for its proximity to Manchester Airport and low-cost housing, Wythenshawe appeals to first-time buyers but faces challenges with higher crime rates and a lack of entertainment options.
While there’s not much in the way of nightlife, it does boast Wythenshawe Park, a massive green space with a historic hall and gardens. Despite its low rankings in happiness surveys, the area has potential for families looking for budget-friendly living.
Moston
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Moston is another area that offers affordable living but lacks the charm and amenities of other Manchester neighborhoods. It has a bit of a rough reputation, and there’s little in the way of entertainment or dining options.
However, it does have one unique attraction: Boggart Hole Clough, a large park with a spooky local legend.
The area’s low happiness rankings reflect its struggles with underdevelopment and crime, but for those who prioritize affordability over lifestyle, Moston remains an option.
