Manchester is a great place to raise a family. One of the advantages of raising a family in Manchester is that there are a lot of options that you can explore, depending on the type of lifestyle you want to pursue.

Some of the best places to live in Manchester if you are with your family are Sale, Deansgate, Spinningfield, Salford, Quays, and many more. 

These neighbourhoods are strategically located near schools, hospital, shopping mall, and other establishments your family would need to live conveniently!

For example, there are places near the city where you will have easy access to big businesses and renowned learning institutions. On the other hand, there are also neighbourhoods that have scenic views and many open spaces for a more active lifestyle outdoors.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into these areas where you can settle with your entire household in this beautiful city.

Best Neighbourhood for Families

No two families are exactly the same. With this, it’s understandable that each will have a unique set of needs to be met.

However, there are a few non-negotiable characteristics that each family should look for before settling into a certain place. Here are some:

• Accessibility to Essential Establishments – As mentioned above, it’s important to make sure that you can conveniently access services for each family member as this will impact your everyday routine.

For instance, if the school is too far away from your home, you may end up driving your kids for an unnecessarily long period whenever they need to attend their classes.

If one of you is working, you should also consider the everyday travel from work to home. While the city is known for its respectable transport system, it would still be best to know what you’re getting into.

Along with this, you should also scout for the most convenient source of supplies like groceries. Health clinics and repair shops should also be a priority.

• Compatibility with Your Neighbours – You should also consider if you will feel comfortable with the people you will live with. After all, you will be expected to coexist harmoniously with them in the foreseeable future.

Luckily, Manchurians are generally known to be warm and hospitable people. You shouldn’t have many issues in this area wherever you may end up.

• Safety – Of course, it would be in your best interest to check the crime rates, vulnerability to natural disasters, and any other hazard that may affect your family while you live in the area. 

Aside from researching online and asking your potential neighbours for details, you are also welcome to head to police stations and other government offices to get the accurate data that you need.

Best Neighbourhoods to Raise a Family in Manchester

Now that we have established the things that you need to look for in each neighbourhood, we will now examine some of the most family-friendly areas in the city.

1. Sale

Sale has consistently ranked as some of the best places to live in Manchester according to multiple surveys. This is most likely because of its accessibility to the city centre.

Here, you will be 20 minutes away from all of the action by train. This makes it a good option if the breadwinners of the family are expected to report to work in the business districts. 

Along with this, the homes here are also beautiful. You will see blocks of houses that are inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more modern structure, you will also have no issues finding some here. Just keep in mind that these are usually more expensive compared to other homes in the area.

2. Deansgate

As for those who are ready to embrace the hustle and bustle of modern city life, Deansgate is a great choice. Here, you will have access to various luxurious living accommodations and serviced apartments.

That’s why it’s not surprising that this serves as the home to many young professionals who work in some of the most prestigious businesses. Of course, some of them are already starting their family and decided to raise their children here as well.

Since most of the parents in this area are working, you will also have access to reputable daycare centres that can look after your child while you are away. If you would be more comfortable leaving them at home, there are also trusted nannies and babysitters here.

3. Salford Quays

Salford Quays is one of the most luxurious areas in Manchester. Here, real estate developers have invested in building quayside developments and loft-style apartments that are perfect for those who want a comfortable life for their families.

While there are many modern living infrastructures here, the area still has historic terraces that you can opt for – making it even more ideal for those who have a specific preference when it comes to their abode.

Along with this, you can also expect a safe environment where your loved ones can live in peace. This is thanks to the attentive private security guards and systems that most establishments have here. 

4. Chorlton

If you envision your kids growing up while exposed to evergreen landscapes and scenic views, then Chorlton might be for you. This is a popular destination among couples who decide to move away from the city to have children.

One of the reasons for that is that the area comes with a lot of parks and recreational spaces for both the young ones and the adults. There are also several academic institutions here that would benefit you in the years to come.

On top of this, there are also a lot of properties here that you may either buy or rent. With this, you will have more flexibility in choosing which one is more suitable for your situation.

5. Wilmslow

Wilmslow is the home to  Manchester’s most affluent residents. This is another popular destination for families who want to move away from city life.

Despite that, the area is still relatively close to the city centre which is only a few minutes away by train and other forms of transportation. With this, the breadwinners are still able to travel to the business districts conveniently.

Along with that comes access to reputable schools in the area. You will also have no shortage of shopping centres, restaurants, and other recreational establishments here. 

If you have the budget to keep up with the higher cost of living here, this is definitely a great place to settle with your family.

6. Altrincham

A home that is suitable for a family in Altrincham starts at £750,000. That may seem like a hefty price, but considering that this area is one of the safest and most accessible spots in the city, it’s worth every penny.

Here, you will have no issues finding a good shopping spot for your supplies, reputable medical practitioners to keep you in shape, and other services that you would need as you raise your family. Of course, this includes learning institutions to help your children in their education. 

There is also a deep sense of community here as there are many events and festivals that take place in the town. With that, we believe that it would be best to embed your roots here and move in while the kids are still young.

7. Didsbury

On top of being a popular location for those who want to raise a family, Didsbury is also a good location for expatriates. With this, the area will surely be accommodating to an entire household who will be moving from another country.

Here, they have a wide range of accommodations available. You can take your pick from modern apartment-style homes to a traditional Victorian house. 

The cost of living here is also more flexible as there is a good mix of high-income and mid-income families here. 

Both parents and children will benefit from living here. There are many recreational spots like bars, shopping centres,  and more.

On the other hand,  there are also parks and great schools in town. 

8. Spinningfields

As for those who prefer to be within walking distance away from the city’s biggest businesses, Spinningfield is your best bet. This is one of the neighbourhoods that are directly in the city centre.

Of course, with that comes a high cost of living. However, since living here will give you access to some of the best Manchester has to offer – it might just be worth it.

Most of the families who live here have one or several family members who work or own a business in the area.

Since most of the adult residents here lead busy lives, you will also have access to support services like daycares, nannies, and more. 

FAQs about Living in Manchester with a Family