Best Places to Live in Manchester

If you’re considering purchasing your first home in Manchester, this guide is here to help!

We’ve taken a look at several popular residential neighbourhoods and rounded up some of the best areas to live in Manchester based on the following criteria: their amenities, unique attributes, transport links, and affordability.

1. Spinningfields
Covering an area between Quay Street, Bridge Street, and the River Irwell, Spinningfields is an ultra-modern commercial district situated in the heart of Deansgate. With an incredible array of amenities only mere steps away, this affluent neighbourhood is a fantastic choice for those who want the convenience of the city right on their doorstep.

Unsurprisingly, housing in this area doesn’t come cheap; Spinningfields’ popular developments fetch some of the highest prices in all of Manchester.

2. Castlefield
Characterised by charming cobbled streets, canals, and converted mills, Castlefield is one of the best areas for city centre living. Close links to Deansgate Station and the motorways means it’s ideal for commuters, and those working in the city can walk to their workplace in minutes.

This neighbourhood is popular with first-time buyers, young professionals, and families, and — despite its central location and wealth of amenities — Castlefield manages to maintain a slightly more suburban feel compared to other districts within the city centre.

Dozens of new developments are underway in Castlefield, and building is set to continue as demand for housing remains high in this quiet yet vibrant area.

3. Northern Quarter
If you’re a city lover and want to be right in the midst of the action, look no further than the Northern Quarter. With its wealth of independent cafes, vintage shops, and top restaurants, this part of Manchester offers a unique, bohemian charm that you’d be hard pressed to find elsewhere in the city.

Properties in this area are much like the neighbourhood itself: quirky, unique, and eclectic, with characterful conversions being the most popular option on offer.

Of course, this district’s trendy reputation and central location equate to higher rental prices and a competitive buying market.

4. Ancoats
Named one of the 50 coolest neighbourhoods in the world by Time Out in 2018, Ancoats is a top contender when it comes to the best areas to live in Manchester.

Its tangle of streets is still very much a work in progress, but a growing number of restaurants, cafes, and bars are flocking here, and the area is becoming known for its modern, trendy vibe.

Not only is Ancoats one of Manchester’s biggest up-and-coming neighbourhoods, but it’s also one of the most affordable too. You’ll find a mixture of attainable new builds and converted mills to suit all tastes, making it a great option for first-time buyers.

5. New Islington
Historically part of Ancoats, New Islington has transformed into a separate regeneration area that’s highly appealing a whole host of prospective homebuyers.

An excellent variety of primary and secondary schools — including New Islington Free School — make it a hugely popular neighbourhood for families, but the area’s housing market and wide range of residential options offer something for everyone.

As New Islington continues down this path of rapid expansion, there’s no doubt this district will become even more of a draw in years to come.

6. Hulme
This formerly deprived area was once notorious for its high crime and unemployment rates but — thanks to a massive government-led regeneration initiative — Hulme now stands as one of Manchester’s top up-and-coming neighbourhoods.

Young professionals are drawn to this area for its variety of new and affordable housing options, vibrant community spirit, booming arts scene, and convenient location only 10 minutes from Deansgate.

The fast-growing housing market is beginning to reflect Hulme’s popularity, so you can expect to see property prices on the rise over the coming years.

7. Green Quarter
Modernity meets convenience at the Green Quarter, a complex of purpose-built developments offering excellent transport links and an array of retail and leisure facilities.

Surrounded by open green space and situated close to the bustling Northern Quarter, this is the perfect option for those wanting to enjoy the very best of Manchester whilst living in a laid-back, tranquil setting. What’s more, Victoria Station is a mere five-minute walk away, making it an ideal location whether you work in the city or commute further afield.

8. Millennium Quarter
Boasting Manchester’s central retail district, the Printworks entertainment complex, and Manchester Cathedral, the Millennium Quarter offers plenty by the way of entertainment and relaxation.

Residents here benefit from regular and reliable transport links with the Metrolink and Victoria Train Station, as well as close access to the motorways. With new building developments currently in the pipeline, it’s likely this area will experience significant growth over the next few years.

Looking to Buy a House in Manchester? First Mortgage Can Help!

Contact us today or visit one of our friendly mortgage advisors in Manchester to learn more about the best areas to buy property in the city.