Pros and cons of living in Sheffield

Sheffield, located in South Yorkshire, is known for its rich industrial history, especially in steel manufacturing. This is where its nickname “Steel City” originated. It boasts many beautiful green spaces, with over 200 parks.

People usually move to Sheffield because it offers affordable housing, excellent universities, and a vibrant culture. It is a great place for students, experienced workers, and families. The city has a pleasant mix of history, modern amenities, and nature that attracts many locals and newcomers. 

If you are considering moving to Sheffield, here are some pros and cons you should take into account first. These will help you make the final decision on whether Sheffield is a suitable place depending on your personal needs.

Pros of living in Sheffield 

The outdoor city 

Do you love spending time outdoors? For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of city life with natural beauty, Sheffield is undoubtedly a fantastic choice. The Peak District National Park comprises one-third of the city, which is why Sheffield stands out for its greenery. Whether you are interested in hiking through hills, rock climbing, or mountain biking, there are numerous adventures to be had in the city. 

The variety of green spaces also makes the city an excellent choice if you prefer a peaceful ambience and leisurely walks. The atmosphere is generally friendly, just like its community. Sheffield is also renowned for its valleys, caves, and waterfalls. Generally speaking, Sheffield is the ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

No boredom 

Just because Sheffield is a smaller city does not mean it is boring. Sheffield is known for being a vibrant city full of entertainment. The city’s theatre scene is incredibly popular, with the Sheffield Theatre Complex offering everything from classic performances to modern plays. 

The music scene is also impressive, with annual festivals like Tramlines attracting thousands of visitors. There is also a growing reputation for electronic music. The city’s venues provide a wide range of performances, while the local clubs ensure a nightlife like no other. Essentially, they cater to all musical tastes. 

Additionally, Sheffield's restaurants can easily rival those in major cities. They offer an impressive selection of fine dining and Michelin-recognised establishments, providing unforgettable experiences. 

Employment opportunities 

Considering that Sheffield's economy is valued at over £11.3 billion, it offers numerous excellent employment opportunities. With major global companies like Boeing, McLaren, and Rolls-Royce establishing headquarters in the city, its economic strength cannot be overlooked. Sheffield was historically known as a steel industry hub, but it has reinvented itself into a modern and more diversified economy, offering many job opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, and digital technology. 

Entrepreneurs are also drawn to Sheffield due to its low cost of living and strong workforce. It is regarded as one of the best cities outside of London for businesses. Sheffield is home to two prestigious universities that provide incredible support for new enterprises. When you combine all of this with a growing population, it is not surprising that new investors are considering relocating their businesses to Sheffield. 

Affordable living 

Sheffield is a prime example of affordable living in the UK. It is 24.1% cheaper than London for general expenses and 61.3% cheaper for rent. This makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to live in a vibrant city without financial strain. Moreover, Sheffield outshines nearby cities regarding the cost of everyday essentials, such as consumer goods and groceries. 

Furthermore, Sheffield is ranked as the third most affordable city for students in the UK. All these benefits make Sheffield an appealing place to live if you are seeking more economical alternatives compared to other areas in the UK. 

Of course, affordability is not the only reason people love Sheffield. The city is famous for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful parks. There is much to do and enjoy in and around the city. Whether you wish to go out adventuring or enjoy a quiet moment in a café, you are sure to have a great time in Sheffield. 

Lower house prices 

There are diverse housing options in Sheffield, ranging from suburban homes to modern apartments. The average property price in Sheffield is around £240,000, which is significantly lower than the UK average asking price. Dore and Fulwood are excellent options if you are looking for luxurious living, offering detached and spacious homes in beautiful leafy neighbourhoods. For more budget-friendly options, you might consider Norton Lees instead.

Cons of living in Sheffield 

The hills 

As many already know, Sheffield's terrain is famously hilly, with elevations ranging from 27 metres above sea level to over 500 metres. Due to this dramatic variation, there are many temperature differences and plenty of windy conditions in certain areas. Consequently, walking and/or cycling across the city can be challenging. If you do not have a vehicle, you may find it quite difficult. 

If you are not physically active or have small children, you should consider moving to different parts of Sheffield, preferably those that are much less hilly. That said, these hills will keep you fit, and they offer stunning views of the city. For many Sheffield residents, the hills are a positive aspect. 

Many students

Although this is great news for the students who want to move and study in Sheffield, it can also be considered a downside for residents. Sheffield is a major university city that attracts students from all around the globe. While this contributes to the local economy and culture, we all know that students are often associated with disruptive behaviours, late-night noise, and being less-than-ideal neighbours. Of course, that’s not always the case!

If you are relocating with a family, you should be aware that there are numerous university options for your children. However, if you prefer peace and quiet, you should consider whether the area you intend to move to has any universities nearby. Such areas are typically noisy.

The centre is not impressive. 

There is room for growth, especially in retail, but it seems that Sheffield, compared to Manchester and Leeds, is lacking in both independent shops and popular high-street brands. The closure of John Lewis in 2021 was definitely one of the most significant blows.

Another commonly mentioned issue with the city centre is the public transport system. While the centre offers many convenient options, the buses are often seen as unreliable. However, Sheffield does offer a lot of trendy pubs, restaurants and entertainment, plus if you are craving more, Manchester is just an hour’s drive away.

Inequality  

Oftentimes, Sheffield is described as a city of two halves, which reflects a divide between the leafy green suburbs and the areas dominated by industrial factories. It seems like Sheffield has taken important steps to reduce these divides. For example, they have started regeneration projects, invested in growing industries, and improved income levels. There are still inequalities, but the city is working on improving the lives of its residents!

Unpredictable weather 

The weather in Sheffield is challenging because of its position in the UK. It is located in South Yorkshire and bordered by the Peak District. Because it is hilly terrain and is close to high areas, you can often experience varied weather changes.

For example, Sheffield’s hills can amplify wind speeds. Valleys and peaks will create wind tunnels. Because of the altitude, the temperature will vary greatly across the city. The city is also known to have a lot of rainy days.

Is Sheffield a good place to live? 

If you are planning to move to Sheffield, it is a good idea to compare the pros and cons before you make this decision. Everyone has different needs. While families might search for areas with good schools, single individuals might be chasing job opportunities.

Sheffield is a beautiful city with a lot of green spaces. It has many lovely parks and plenty of outdoor activities for you to enjoy. The hills make the city look picturesque, and they can also help you stay fit. However, if you enjoy going on casual walks or cycling, the hills will definitely not be your favourite aspect. That said, the hills are also responsible for Sheffield’s varied temperatures.

If you're still asking yourself: is Sheffield a good place to live? All you have to do is make a list of your own personal pros and cons when moving to a different city!

As for those who’ve decided to move, you should consider The Property Buying Company to help you with selling your current home. We can sell your current property in a minimum of 7 days, and you won’t be paying any estate agent fees.

Instead, we are cash buyers who are looking to buy homes in all areas of the UK. It does not matter what condition your property might be in; we will buy it. We will provide you with a below-market offer but won’t charge any fees regarding the whole process. Simply contact us, and The Property Buying Company will do all the work for you!