Manchester Local Property Guide
Welcome to Manchester
Can you hear that buzz? It might just be Manchester’s worker bee mascot, symbolic of the Mancunian’s incredible work ethic, the city’s unity and sense of community, and the hive of activity that the city is – there’s always something to do. In fact, when considering what the city is known for, it might be easier to ask what Manchester isn’t known for…
With historical and modern architecture, there’s a rich variety of building design. Warehouses, cotton mills, canals and railway viaducts can be seen dotted along the skyline from industrial days past. These are melted in with early 19th and 20th century styles, and keen eyes will spot an array of architectural styles from Venetian Gothic to Art Deco.
The city is also home to the Pankhurst Centre – the birthplace of the suffragette movement, and a forward-thinking, progressive attitude and acceptance is instilled in Manchester’s culture today. Each year the city hosts a huge pride event, with the centre donned in rainbows and colour. This welcoming culture is one of the many reasons Manchester has such a tangible sense of community.
A city that lives and breathes arts and culture, we probably don’t need to tell you about the famous musical talent that Manchester is home to: Oasis, The Smiths, Take That and Simply Red to name a few.
It’s also a huge city for media, with countless newspapers and film industry businesses central to the city, alongside Media City, home to BBC and ITV studios, amongst others. And with several media-based local university courses, you’d be spoiled for choice for work experience! To those familiar with Manchester’s history, it’ll come as no surprise that science, industry and engineering still thrive within the city today.
Manchester is dripping with culture and creativity, and Mancunians are known for their heart and personality. We can see why you might be hastily stuffing your belongings in boxes ready to move into town and be a part of the community – and there’s a huge range of Manchester houses for sale if you are.
Connect with a Manchester estate agent
If you’re considering calling Manchester home, it’s easy to see why, and you might be keen to move your home-buying journey along in this busy housing market. Or maybe it’s already home and you’re looking to sell a house in Manchester. A local Purplebricks estate agent in Manchester has up-to-date knowledge of the property market, as well as all the tools and know-how when it comes to selling in the area. And booking a free valuation couldn’t be easier.
What’s it like to live in Manchester?
The variety and diversity seen across the Greater Manchester area is a physical manifestation of what the city represents. With all the trappings of a capital city, but with the community feel and friendliness that comes with a smaller town, it’s easy to see what appeals to so many who live in the area.
This modern cosmopolitan city is constantly investing and regenerating areas, it has an incomparable local culture, and any amenity you could think of is just a couple of minutes down the road. It’s bursting at the seams with culture, creativity, arts and music.
It also boasts the second-highest student retention rate of any city in the UK, at 51.5%. Once you’re there, you won’t want to leave. And you can see why – if you want to lead a rich, well-rounded life, there’s not much more you could ask of a city. Has Manchester captured your attention? Take a gander at Manchester flats and houses for sale.
Transport: Getting around Manchester
Thanks to a compact city layout, locals are lucky to be able to get almost anywhere in the city on foot. That’s not the only mode of transport, however. With dedicated cycle lanes, a Metrolink tram and a wide bus network, public transport is also easy to use. The huge integrated city-wide transport network makes it one of the most accessible cities in the UK. There’s also the option of driving – but be prepared for busy city roads and speedy drivers!
By train
The city centre is well-connected by train, with four main stations – Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Street and Manchester Deansgate – which make up the Manchester station group. But there are further stations throughout the city and Greater Manchester area – meaning wherever you are, you’re not far from a station.
In terms of travelling out of the city, a direct train from Manchester Piccadilly has frequent departures throughout the day, arriving in the country’s capital in as little as 2 hours and 15 minutes. You can also take day trips to Liverpool, Chester, Blackpool and even the Lake District.
And, there are a number of trains that run directly to and from Manchester Airport, should you decide to take a trip through the skies.
By road
Manchester is conveniently situated in the middle of a well-connected ring road, comprised of several junctions feeding directly into the city centre. The M62 runs west to east through the city, connecting to both Liverpool and Leeds, meaning you’re also not far from the M6.
Although accessible by road, travelling by car is one of the trickier options for navigating the city. With busy, congested roads you’d expect in a bustling city, you’re perhaps better off utilising Manchester’s ample public transport network when travelling within the area.
By bus/tram
Manchester has a vast tram network, with several routes in and around the city, reaching further out into Greater Manchester and areas like Altrincham, Manchester Airport, Bury, and Rochdale. And where the tram route doesn’t go, the bus network does – Manchester is fully accessible due to the extensive, well-connected web of transport.
The city also has the aptly named Bee Network – a hub for all transport info, complete with a handy journey planner.
By bicycle
For those who prefer to don a helmet and set off on two wheels, the city is happily one of the most cycle-friendly in the UK. And, the local government actively encourage cyclists, with a helpful guide for everything you could need to set off, from city-wide maps and national trails, to accessibility info and bike training courses.
Journey times are approximate.
Cost of living in Manchester
Manchester is one of the most desirable areas in the UK right now, and living in a city that has so much to offer comes with a price tag. In fact, a recent study found that locals are spending more on salary and bills than almost anywhere else in the UK in 2023.
From energy and phone contracts to car and pet insurance, bills in this city are on the higher end, something to consider if you’re thinking of snatching up some of the lovely properties on offer in the vibrant city and the surrounds.
Houses for sale in Manchester
So, are you tempted to look at a house for sale in Manchester? The city is known for just about everything – culture, architecture, education and media, meaning it’s a city which is appealing to people of all ages and demographics.
As you’d expect, the Greater Manchester area offers the full range of properties, from city centre Manchester flats for sale, to 3-bedroom homes further into the suburbs. The overall average for a home in the area is £253,742 – but as the homes range in size and location, so do the prices.
Average costs by property type in Greater Manchester (at the time of writing, December 2023):
Detached house: £452,764
Semi-detached: £264,503
Terraced: £180,147
Flat: £172,920
There’s so much on offer, you’re sure to find a property for sale in Manchester to suit your needs. Keep reading to find out more about a selection of the top neighbourhoods in the area.
Neighbourhoods: Where to buy a house in Manchester
City centre
Average house price: £241,434
Manchester city centre has a lifeforce all of its own – never sleeping and never dull, there’s always something on, from jazz nights at Blues Kitchen and Matt & Phredds, to music events at iconic venues like the O2 Apollo, AO Arena, and Band on the Wall. Foodies will rejoice in the city, with an endless list of must-try food spots – like Gooey Café, Knoops, Fat Pats Sandwiches, and Ducie Street Warehouse to name just a few.
All the action is just a quick walk or tram ride away, as are all of your amenities and hobbies. For those with an affinity for a fast-paced, busy lifestyle, the city is calling your name.
Tempted by this vibrant city? Browse houses for sale in Manchester city centre.
Northern Quarter
Average house price: £243,403
The Northern Quarter is a trendy, bohemian neighbourhood in central Manchester. It boasts avant-garde bars and cafes, indie record stores, and lively music venues. The area is known for its iconic nightlife, so those looking to locate to the area should consider the noise levels that come with a party scene that never sleeps.
Hip and desirable, young people are flocking to the area – and it is one of the pricier neighbourhoods central to the city. But, with culture brimming from every street and every corner, it’s easy to see the appeal.
Check out houses and flats for sale in Northern Quarter, Manchester.
Salford
Average house price: £224,571
Salford is a city in Greater Manchester, but its walkable distance and proximity to Manchester centre means parts of it still feel very much like you’re within city bounds. In fact, direct trains, public transport and even a brisk walk can have you in the middle of Manchester city within 10 minutes.
With a slightly lower price point, Salford appeals to those who wish to enjoy the Manchester lifestyle on a slightly lower budget. And with pretty local parklands like Peel Park and Buile Hill Park, it offers the best of both worlds. The city sits within a meander on the western bank of the River Irwell, which forms its border with Manchester city, meaning locals can also enjoy pretty waterside views.
Take a scroll of the latest houses for sale in Salford, Manchester.
Urmston
Average house price: £319,325
Urmston sits around 5 miles southwest of the city centre, near to the beloved Trafford Centre – a shopping and leisure centre that offers everything from must-love brands to delicious food and exciting events. Aside from retail therapy appeal, the neighbourhood has a pleasant, village-style ambience, reminiscent of areas of the Cotswolds. With a small population, leafy green parks, and small cafes and coffee spots, you can experience city life at your leisure, whilst also enjoying the benefits that come with a more spacious, quiet suburb.
Browse for a new house for sale in Urmston, Greater Manchester.
Quick facts about Manchester
Rusholme is the home of Manchester’s Curry Mile – the largest concentration of Indian restaurants outside of Asia. There are over 70 restaurants, with a huge variety of cuisines, including Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi and more!
Did you know Manchester was the first industrial city in the world? It played a huge part in the Industrial Revolution, becoming the UK’s leading producer of cotton and textiles.
It’s a pretty famous city; Manchester is the home of Coronation Street, a major filming location for Peaky Blinders, and of course, the stomping grounds of Oasis, one of the most famous bands from the UK.
Time to London: 4hrs 20mins
Population: 2.8 million
Average winter temperature: 4C
Average summer temperature: 15.7C
Average house price: £253,742
Average monthly rent: £1,600
Households: 1,178,246
Schools: 1,258
Useful external links
All city services and information, including schools, parking and healthcare: Manchester City Council.
Public transport in and around Manchester: The Bee Network – Transport for Greater Manchester.
Search for a Manchester house for sale
So, is Manchester calling your name? It really is a city that has it all. There are excellent universities and job opportunities in an array of industries, and sights to see for people of all ages. With a thriving economy, unrivalled culture and music scene, and a diverse population, it’s hard to think of reasons you’re not already browsing Manchester houses for sale.
You’re not the only one thinking of making the move, so whether you’re in the market to buy or sell a home in Manchester, make a start today by talking to your local estate agent in Manchester.