Is Nottingham a Good Place to Live? Full Area Report

East Midlands / Nottinghamshire

Avg Property Price

£215,000

Avg Rent

£775/month

Crime Rating

Above Average

Schools (Good+)

69% Good or Outstanding

Broadband Avg

72 Mbps

Transport

Good

Flood Risk

Medium

Population

330K

About Nottingham

Nottingham is a lively East Midlands city famed for Robin Hood, its two rival football clubs, and an excellent tram network. HouseCheckup property data shows Nottingham offers some of the best value in England for buyers, with strong rental yields attracting investors to the city centre. The city has a youthful energy driven by its two universities and a growing creative and digital economy.

Pros of Living in Nottingham

  • Very affordable property prices with strong rental yields for investors
  • Excellent tram network (NET) connecting key residential areas to the city centre
  • Vibrant nightlife and cultural scene driven by a large student population
  • Central location with good rail and motorway connections
  • Rich history and green spaces including Wollaton Park and Sherwood Forest nearby

Cons of Living in Nottingham

  • Higher-than-average crime rates, particularly in the city centre
  • Flood risk along the River Trent corridor
  • Some areas have high deprivation levels and limited investment
  • Graduate retention could be stronger, with some talent moving to London or Manchester

Frequently Asked Questions About Nottingham

Nottingham is a great place to live for those seeking affordable city life with good amenities. The city has a lively atmosphere, excellent tram connections, and a strong sense of community in its diverse neighbourhoods. It particularly suits students, young professionals, and families. The surrounding countryside including Sherwood Forest offers weekend escape opportunities.
Nottingham's average property price is approximately £215,000. Upmarket areas like West Bridgford and The Park command prices between £350,000 and £600,000. Affordable options exist in Bulwell, Sneinton, and St Ann's with terraced homes under £130,000. The city centre apartment market appeals to buy-to-let investors seeking strong yields.
Nottingham's crime rate is above the national average, partly driven by its large nighttime economy. Residential suburbs like West Bridgford, Beeston, and Mapperley Park are considered safe and family-friendly. The city centre sees higher rates of theft and antisocial behaviour. Nottinghamshire Police operate dedicated neighbourhood teams across the city.
Around 69% of Nottingham's schools are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. West Bridgford and the southern suburbs have the strongest school performance. The city also has well-regarded independent schools including Nottingham High School. Two major universities, Nottingham and Nottingham Trent, provide excellent higher education and research opportunities for residents.
Nottingham has one of the UK's best tram networks, NET, connecting Hucknall and Clifton to the city centre. Rail services reach London St Pancras in under two hours. The M1 motorway passes just east of the city. Nottingham's bus network is comprehensive and the city has invested in cycling infrastructure. East Midlands Airport is nearby for flights.

Check Any Property in Nottingham

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

Try or search any UK postcode

Last updated: