With its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscape, Edinburgh is a city that attracts people from all over the world. Moving to or within Edinburgh can be exciting, however the practicalities of relocating – finding accommodation, navigating the city’s geography, and settling into your new daily life – can be overwhelming.

This ultimate guide is designed to help you make a smooth transition, offering essential advice on housing, transportation, healthcare, education, utilities, and more. Whether you’re new to Edinburgh or simply relocating within the city, this blog will provide all the information you need to settle in effortlessly.

• Finding Accommodation in Edinburgh
• Essential Services in Edinburgh
• Navigating the City with Ease
• Preparing for Edinburgh’s Climate
• Edinburgh’ Rich Culture
• Hiring a Professional Removal Company in Edinburgh
• Key Takeaways: Move to Edinburgh Confidently
• Moving to Edinburgh FAQs

Finding Accommodation in Edinburgh

One of the first things you’ll need to sort out when moving to Edinburgh is where to live. Edinburgh offers a variety of housing options, from charming historic homes to modern flats. Depending on your budget and lifestyle, you can choose from different neighbourhoods, each offering something unique.

Popular Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

• Old Town: Perfect for history lovers, Old Town is home to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. However, it’s a tourist hotspot, so it might be noisier and pricier than other areas.
• New Town: Known for its Georgian architecture and high-end shops, New Town is a more peaceful alternative to Old Town but still central.
• Leith: This up-and-coming neighbourhood by the waterfront is a vibrant, affordable area with a thriving food and art scene.
• Stockbridge: If you prefer a quiet, village-like atmosphere, Stockbridge offers a laid-back vibe with its charming cafes, boutiques, and parks.
• Morningside and Bruntsfield: These are family-friendly areas with good schools, parks, and local shops, making them ideal for those with children.

Understanding the Local Property Market

Edinburgh’s property market is diverse, but understanding local trends can help you make an informed decision when renting or buying a home. The market is competitive, so being prepared with all your documents is essential.

Consult with a local estate agent who will have in-depth knowledge of the current housing market in the area you are looking to rent or buy.

Rental Market

Edinburgh is known for high rental demand, particularly in central areas like Old Town, New Town, and Leith. However, prices can vary depending on the area:

• City Centre: Expect higher rent prices, with the average 2-bedroom flat costing around £1,200–£1,600 per month.
• Leith and Surrounding Areas: More affordable options exist in Leith, where the average 2-bedroom flat rents for around £900–£1,200 per month.
• Outskirts: Areas like Gorgie or Portobello offer more budget-friendly options.

Buying a Home

If you are in a position to purchase a home in Edinburgh, it is crucial to consider your budget as this may alter where you wish to buy a house. The average house price in Edinburgh varies by neighbourhood, in the city centre the average property price is around £300,000, while suburban areas like Leith offer more affordable options around £150,000 – £ 250,000.

Essential Services in Edinburgh

Setting up essential services is a crucial part of settling into a new city. Edinburgh offers a wide range of services for residents, including healthcare, education, and utilities.

1.    Healthcare

Scotland’s National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare services to all residents, including those living in Edinburgh. Once you have established a permanent address, registering for healthcare services should be one of your top priorities.

Registering with a GP

The first step in accessing NHS services is registering with a local General Practitioner (GP). A GP serves as your first point of contact for all non-emergency medical issues. Once registered, your GP will help coordinate other healthcare services you may need, including specialist care and routine checkups.

Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies in Edinburgh are easy to locate, with major chains such as Boots, Lloyds, and independent pharmacies providing prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Once registered with a GP, they will issue prescriptions, which you can pick up from any pharmacy.

Dental Care

NHS dental care is available in Edinburgh, but you may need to search for a dentist accepting new patients, as some practices have waiting lists. You can check the NHS Inform website or call nearby practices to inquire.

Emergency Healthcare

In the event of a medical emergency, Edinburgh offers multiple options:

• Emergency Rooms (A&E): The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh provides 24/7 emergency services.
• Minor Injuries Units: For non-life-threatening emergencies, the Western General Hospital offers minor injuries treatment.
• NHS 24: For non-urgent medical advice outside of regular GP hours, call NHS 24 at 111.

2.    Education

Edinburgh is known for its high standard of education, with a broad selection of primary and secondary schools, as well as internationally recognised universities. Whether you’re moving with children or pursuing further education yourself, the city has plenty to offer.

Primary and Secondary Education

The City of Edinburgh Council operates a network of public (state) schools that are free for residents. Additionally, there are numerous private schools offering an alternative for those who prefer a fee-paying education system.

Notable State Schools in Edinburgh:

• James Gillespie’s High School: One of the top-rated public schools in Edinburgh, located in the Marchmont area.
• Boroughmuir High School: Another well-regarded school in the city, particularly strong in academic achievement.
• St. Thomas of Aquin’s RC High School: A popular choice for families seeking Catholic education.

Private Schools

Edinburgh is home to a number of prestigious private schools. While these schools charge tuition, they offer smaller class sizes, extracurricular programs, and modern facilities.

Notable Private Schools in Edinburgh:

• George Heriot’s School: A prestigious independent day school located near the city centre.
• Fettes College: An internationally renowned boarding and day school known for its strong academic and sporting programs.
• Stewart’s Melville College: Offers top-tier education for boys and girls at its sister school, The Mary Erskine School.

Higher Education

For those over 18, Edinburgh boasts some of the most esteemed universities in the world:

• The University of Edinburgh: A world-leading institution, ranked among the top universities globally, offering courses in a wide range of disciplines.
• Edinburgh Napier University: Known for its practical, career-focused courses in business, health, and engineering.
• Heriot-Watt University: Specialising in engineering, technology, and business courses.

For families with children or for those seeking personal development, Edinburgh’s education system provides a wealth of opportunities.

3.    Utilities

Once you’ve moved into your new home, setting up essential utilities is a crucial step to ensuring comfort and convenience. Below is a breakdown of key utilities, how to get them set up, and tips for choosing the best providers.

Gas and Electricity

Edinburgh’s most common suppliers include Scottish Power, British Gas, and SSE, but there are numerous other companies, including smaller, eco-friendly providers like Octopus Energy and Bulb. You can compare prices and services on sites like Uswitch to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Water Supply

In Scotland, water services are provided by Scottish Water. Unlike gas and electricity, you cannot choose your water supplier. Your water bill is incorporated into your Council Tax, so you won’t need to set this up separately. However, it’s worth checking the quality of your water or whether any additional maintenance might be required.

Council Tax

Council Tax is a local tax that contributes to services like waste collection, street maintenance, and public amenities. The amount you pay depends on the valuation band of your property, which is determined by its market value. You’ll need to register with The City of Edinburgh Council to ensure you are billed correctly.

Waste Collection and Recycling

Edinburgh has a strong focus on recycling, and the City of Edinburgh Council provides detailed guidance on how to sort and dispose of household waste. Once you move in, check the Council’s website for your collection schedule and order bins if necessary.

• Recycling Bins: The Council provides different bins for general waste, recycling (plastics, paper, glass), and food waste. Sorting your waste correctly ensures efficient recycling.
• Special Collections: If you have larger items like furniture or appliances to dispose of, the Council offers special collection services at an extra fee.

Navigating the City with Ease

Edinburgh is a city that boasts an efficient and diverse transportation system, offering numerous ways to get around, whether you’re commuting for work, exploring the historic Old Town, or venturing out into the surrounding areas.

Understanding the transportation options available to you will make it much easier to navigate Edinburgh, both during your move and as you settle into your new home.

Public Transport in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a well-developed public transport network that’s affordable, reliable, and easy to use.

Buses

Edinburgh’s bus network, operated primarily by Lothian Buses, is extensive. Lothian Buses operates over 70 routes across Edinburgh and beyond. Buses are a popular way to get around because they’re frequent, affordable, and well-maintained.

Major routes cover popular areas such as:

• Princes Street
• Leith
• Stockbridge, and beyond.

Trams

Edinburgh’s tram system, although smaller than the bus network, is modern and convenient. The Edinburgh Tram line currently runs from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre to Newhaven, serving key locations like Haymarket, Princes Street, and Leith. The tram is especially useful for travel to and from the airport or if you’re living in the suburbs to the west or along the northern waterfront.

Rail Services

Edinburgh is also well-connected by train, making it easy to travel both within the city and to other parts of Scotland and the UK. The city’s two main stations are Edinburgh Waverley, located in the heart of the city, and Haymarket, situated in the West End.

Key Train Routes:

• Scotrail Services: Scotrail operates the majority of train services in Scotland, including local routes to nearby towns and cities such as Glasgow, Stirling, and Dunfermline.
• East Coast Main Line: For long-distance travel, trains from Edinburgh Waverley run to London, Newcastle, and York along the East Coast Main Line.
• Fife Circle: This popular commuter route connects Edinburgh with towns in Fife, making it ideal if you’re living or working outside the city.

Active Transportation

Edinburgh is a very pedestrian-friendly city, with many of its key attractions and neighbourhoods within walking distance of each other. For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, cycling is also becoming increasingly popular, thanks to the city’s growing network of cycle paths and bike-friendly initiatives.

Walking in Edinburgh

Given the city’s compact size and beautiful, historic streets, walking is one of the most enjoyable ways to get around. Edinburgh is divided into distinctive areas like Old Town, New Town, Leith, and Stockbridge, each of which is easily accessible by foot.

Many of the city’s top attractions are best explored on foot:

• Royal Mile: This famous street runs through the heart of Old Town, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Water of Leith Walkway: A scenic path that runs alongside the Water of Leith river, connecting the city centre to the port district of Leith.
• Arthur’s Seat: For a more adventurous walk, a hike up Arthur’s Seat offers panoramic views of the city.

Cycling in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is actively improving its cycling infrastructure, with new cycle lanes and bike-friendly initiatives being introduced throughout the city. While Edinburgh’s hilly terrain can be challenging in certain areas, cycling is a great way to commute or explore the city at a leisurely pace.

Edinburgh has a growing network of dedicated cycle paths such as the Innocent Railway Path and the North Edinburgh Path Network, which are ideal for both commuting and recreational cycling.

Driving and Parking

While Edinburgh’s public transport system is efficient, some residents prefer to drive, especially if commuting from suburban areas or outside the city. That being said, navigating the narrow, winding streets of Edinburgh’s city centre can be tricky, and parking can be limited in some areas.

Driving in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, like many cities, experiences traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and around major roads like the A1, A720 (City Bypass), and Queensferry Road. If you’re driving, plan your route and try to avoid rush hour where possible.

The narrow, cobbled streets of Old Town can be challenging for drivers, and many areas are pedestrianised or have limited access for vehicles. It’s often best to park outside the centre and walk or use public transport.

Parking Permits in Edinburgh

If you’re planning to drive and park in Edinburgh, you may need to apply for a residential parking permit through the City of Edinburgh Council. Permit areas are divided into zones, with pricing based on the location and type of vehicle.

Preparing for Edinburgh’s Climate

Edinburgh’s climate is temperate maritime, meaning it’s relatively mild all year-round but prone to rain and wind. Here’s what you should know before moving:

• Winter: Edinburgh winters are cold, with temperatures averaging around 1°C–5°C. Snow is rare but not unheard of. Be prepared for frosty mornings and short daylight hours.
• Summer: Summers are mild, with temperatures averaging 12°C–18°C. Expect rain showers even during the warmer months.
• Rain: Edinburgh sees frequent rainfall, so investing in a sturdy umbrella and waterproof clothing is a must.

Weather-proofing your home is also a good idea. Ensure windows are well-sealed, and consider insulating your home if you’re staying long-term so your home can withstand the wind and rain all year round!

Edinburgh’s Rich Culture

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, culture, and creativity. Known for its stunning architecture and iconic festivals, the city offers a wealth of cultural experiences that make it a vibrant place to live.

Edinburgh Festivals: The Festival City

Edinburgh is famously known as the “Festival City”, hosting a variety of world-renowned festivals throughout the year. These festivals draw visitors from around the world and create countless opportunities for locals to engage with the arts, culture, and entertainment.

• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe: Often referred to simply as “The Fringe,” is the largest arts festival in the world. Taking place every August, the Fringe showcases thousands of performances across theatre, comedy, dance, music, and spoken word.
• The Edinburgh International Festival: Running concurrently with the Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival is a more curated event that focuses on high-calibre performances in classical music, opera, theatre, and dance. Founded in 1947, this prestigious festival has built a global reputation for artistic excellence.
• Hogmanay: Edinburgh’s New Year celebration is legendary, with street parties, fireworks, and live music attracting visitors from across the globe. The Torchlight Procession and Loony Dook (a New Year’s Day dip in the freezing Firth of Forth) are among the highlights.
• Edinburgh International Film Festival: Showcasing the best in global cinema, this festival is a must for film enthusiasts, with premieres, retrospectives, and workshops for budding filmmakers.
• Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival: Held every July, this festival brings world-class jazz and blues musicians to Edinburgh, with performances ranging from traditional to avant-garde styles.

Arts and Music Scene

In addition to its festivals, Edinburgh boasts a thriving arts and music scene that spans multiple genres and mediums. Whether you’re an artist, musician, or art lover, the city offers endless opportunities to engage with local and international creative communities.

Edinburgh’s rich cultural life offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the arts, history, and diverse communities to enrich your life when you make the big move to the Scottish city.

Hiring a Professional Removal Company in Edinburgh

Moving can be a stressful and complex process, especially in a city like Edinburgh with its narrow streets, varying architecture, and unique challenges like cobblestone roads or steep staircases in tenement buildings.

However, one way in which you can alleviate some of your moving stress is by hiring a professional removal company to handle the logistics. This is where a professional and experienced removal company like Guardian Removals comes into play.

With over 20 years of experience serving Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, Guardian Removals is a trusted name when it comes to professional moving services. Our team of skilled movers is dedicated to providing a seamless and stress-free moving experience, no matter the size or distance of your move.

Key Takeaways: Move to Edinburgh Confidently

1. Accommodation in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh offers a range of housing options from historic homes in the Old Town to modern flats in areas like Leith. Be prepared for high rental demand, especially in central areas, and consider consulting local estate agents for a better understanding of the competitive property market.

2. Essential Services:

Setting up services like healthcare, education, and utilities is crucial when relocating. Registering with a GP, choosing the right school, and setting up utilities like gas, electricity, and water should be prioritised to ensure a smooth transition.

3. Navigating Edinburgh:

The city has an efficient public transport system with extensive bus routes, modern tram services, and well-connected train lines. Walking and cycling are also popular options for exploring the city’s charming streets and parks.

4. Climate Considerations:

Edinburgh’s temperate maritime climate means mild but unpredictable weather. Be prepared for rain year-round and consider weather-proofing your home to protect against wind and cold winters.

5. Cultural Richness:

Known as the “Festival City,” Edinburgh hosts world-renowned events like the Edinburgh Fringe and International Festival, along with a thriving arts and music scene that ensures there’s always something happening.

6. Hiring a Professional Removal Company:

For a stress-free move, consider hiring a professional removal company like Guardian Removals, which has over 20 years of experience in Edinburgh, offering expert services to handle the complexities of moving in the city’s unique environment.

Moving to Edinburgh Guide FAQs

Do you provide packing services for Edinburgh moves?

Yes, we offer full packing and unpacking services. Our team is experienced in safely packing everything from everyday items to valuable antiques. We’re particularly familiar with the challenges of moving into Edinburgh properties and pack accordingly to ensure easy navigation through narrow doorways and staircases.

Can Guardian Removals help with international moves to Edinburgh?

Absolutely! We handle international relocations to Edinburgh, managing all aspects of the move including customs documentation, international shipping, and final delivery to your Edinburgh home. Our experience with the city’s unique layout means we can ensure a smooth final delivery, no matter where you’re moving from.

What’s your experience with student moves in Edinburgh?

With several universities in Edinburgh, we have extensive experience with student moves. We understand student budgets and timing requirements, particularly around term dates, and can offer efficient solutions for moving into and out of student accommodation across the city.

Can Guardian Removals help with storage if my new Edinburgh property isn’t ready yet?

Yes, we offer secure storage solutions for both short and long-term needs. This is particularly useful if you’re dealing with Edinburgh’s competitive property market and need temporary storage between properties.

Relocate to Edinburgh Seamlessly with Guardian Removals

Moving to Edinburgh is a fantastic opportunity to experience one of the UK’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. From finding the perfect neighbourhood to navigating the city’s public transport and setting up essential services, this guide aims to make your transition as smooth as possible. If you’re looking for professional help to make your move stress-free, Guardian Removals is here to assist you every step of the way.

Get in touch today for a free moving quote, and let us help you with packing, storage, and safe transport of your belongings.

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