Is Leicester a Good Place to Live? Full Area Report

East Midlands / Leicestershire

Avg Property Price

£230,000

Avg Rent

£800/month

Crime Rating

Above Average

Schools (Good+)

70% Good or Outstanding

Broadband Avg

70 Mbps

Transport

Average

Flood Risk

Low

Population

370K

About Leicester

Leicester is one of England's most diverse cities, famous for its rich cultural heritage, 2015 Premier League miracle, and the rediscovery of Richard III beneath a car park. HouseCheckup data reveals Leicester as an affordable East Midlands option with strong transport connections and a growing economy. The city's diverse communities create a vibrant food scene and cultural calendar, while its central England location provides excellent access to the rest of the country.

Pros of Living in Leicester

  • Very affordable property prices with strong value for families
  • Incredibly diverse city with a vibrant food and cultural scene
  • Central location with fast train links to London and Birmingham
  • Growing economy with opportunities in textiles, engineering, and space research
  • Rich history from Roman origins to the medieval Jewry Wall

Cons of Living in Leicester

  • Higher-than-average crime rates in certain inner-city areas
  • City centre could benefit from further regeneration and investment
  • Air quality concerns along the inner ring road
  • Employment opportunities are more limited than nearby Nottingham or Birmingham

Frequently Asked Questions About Leicester

Leicester offers excellent value and incredible diversity, making it a rewarding place to live. The city has strong community spirit and a calendar packed with cultural events including Diwali celebrations that rival any in the world. It suits families and professionals who want affordable housing in a central location with good connections to London and Birmingham.
Leicester's average property price is approximately £230,000. Popular areas like Oadby, Stoneygate, and Knighton range from £300,000 to £450,000. More affordable options exist in Beaumont Leys, Braunstone, and New Parks where family homes start around £150,000. Buy-to-let yields are strong due to the large student population.
Leicester's crime rate is above the national average, typical for a city of its size. Residential suburbs like Oadby, Groby, and Birstall are very safe and family-friendly. City centre and some inner-city areas see higher crime levels, mainly theft and antisocial behaviour. Leicestershire Police operate neighbourhood policing teams across the city.
Around 70% of Leicester's schools are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. The city has a strong grammar school tradition with several selective schools in the wider county. Leicester's faith school provision reflects its diverse community. The University of Leicester and De Montfort University provide solid higher education options within the city.
Leicester has direct rail services to London St Pancras in around one hour and fifteen minutes. The city is centrally located at the junction of the M1 and M69 motorways. Bus services are the main public transport mode within the city itself. East Midlands Airport is nearby for domestic and European flights. Cycling infrastructure is gradually improving.

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Nearby Areas

Nottingham

East Midlands

£215,000

Coventry

West Midlands

£225,000

Northampton

East Midlands

£260,000

Birmingham

West Midlands

£230,000

Derby

East Midlands

£210,000

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