Is Durham a Good Place to Live? Full Area Report

North East / County Durham

Avg Property Price

£195,000

Avg Rent

£750/month

Crime Rating

Below Average

Schools (Good+)

75% Good or Outstanding

Broadband Avg

68 Mbps

Transport

Good

Flood Risk

Medium

Population

50K

About Durham

Durham is a small, stunning cathedral city set dramatically above the River Wear, home to one of England's oldest and most prestigious universities. HouseCheckup area data shows Durham offers exceptional value with low crime, strong schools, and UNESCO World Heritage status. The city's compact size, scholarly atmosphere, and the breathtaking silhouette of its Norman cathedral and castle create one of the most visually spectacular settings in England.

Pros of Living in Durham

  • UNESCO World Heritage cathedral and castle in a dramatic riverside setting
  • Very low crime rates — one of the safest cities in the north-east
  • Strong school performance above the national average
  • Affordable property prices compared to similar heritage cities
  • Excellent rail connections on the East Coast Main Line

Cons of Living in Durham

  • Very small city with limited employment outside the university and public sector
  • Nightlife and entertainment dominated by the student population
  • Flood risk in the riverside areas below the cathedral
  • Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities

Frequently Asked Questions About Durham

Durham is a beautiful and safe place to live, particularly for those who value heritage, academia, and community. The city offers affordable housing in a UNESCO World Heritage setting with excellent transport links. It suits families, academics, and retirees. The trade-off is a limited job market and the dominant influence of the university on city life.
Durham's average property price is approximately £195,000, excellent value for a heritage city. Premium areas like Gilesgate, Shincliffe, and Neville's Cross range from £250,000 to £450,000. More affordable areas include Pity Me, Newton Hall, and Framwellgate Moor. Student rental demand supports buy-to-let investment in central areas.
Durham has below-average crime rates and is one of the safest cities in the north-east. All residential areas are generally safe and well-maintained. Student-related antisocial behaviour can occur in the Viaduct area but is typically minor. Durham Constabulary maintain a visible presence, and the city's compact size fosters a strong sense of community safety.
Around 75% of Durham's schools are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. The city has strong state school provision with several well-regarded primary and secondary schools. Durham School is a long-established independent option. Durham University is a Russell Group institution ranked among the UK's top fifteen, creating an academic atmosphere that permeates the city.
Durham sits on the East Coast Main Line with direct trains to London King's Cross in under three hours and to Edinburgh in under two hours. Newcastle is just twelve minutes away by train. The A1(M) provides road connections north and south. Durham does not have its own airport, but Newcastle International Airport is about twenty-five minutes away.

Check Any Property in Durham

Get a detailed HouseCheckup report for any address in Durham. Covers flood risk, EPC rating, crime statistics, school catchment areas, planning applications, and more — from just £14.99.

Try or search any UK postcode

Nearby Areas

Newcastle upon Tyne

North East

£195,000

Sunderland

North East

£145,000

Middlesbrough

North East

£135,000

York

Yorkshire and the Humber

£310,000

Harrogate

Yorkshire and the Humber

£350,000

Last updated: