Top 7 Best places to live in Scotland with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Crimes: 228 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £467
• Average property buying cost: £196,000

Orkney consistently ranks among the best places to live in the UK, thanks to its vibrant community, unique professional opportunities, and high quality of life. With a crime rate of 228 crimes per 10,000 people, it offers a safe environment. As of September 2023, the average property buying cost is £196,000, while the average one-bedroom flat rent as of December 2023 is £467.

The islands are known for their wonderful wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and lively population with an impressive entrepreneurial spirit. Orkney is also famous for its delicious food and drink, including fresh seafood, dairy products, and locally reared beef. Locals enjoy exploring the charming harbor of Stromness, indulging in local seafood and oatcakes, and visiting historic sites like the Ring of Brodgar and the Stenness Stones.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Crimes: 238 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £672
• Average property buying cost: £291,000

East Renfrewshire, a rural and suburban area close to one of Britain’s most attractive shopping cities, offers excellent housing and a high quality of life. With a crime rate of 238 crimes per 10,000 people, it provides a safe environment. As of September 2023, the average property buying cost is £291,000, while the average one-bedroom flat rent as of December 2023 is £672. The area is renowned for having the best schools in Scotland, with consistently high standards above the Scottish average.

Survey findings indicate high levels of satisfaction among residents, with 85% expressing contentment with living in East Renfrewshire. The region boasts a mix of towns and villages, offering a range of attractions for families, professionals, and retirees. Locals enjoy visiting places like Greenbank Garden, Whitelee Visitor Centre, and Rouken Glen Park, making East Renfrewshire an ideal place to live, work, and explore.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Crimes: 254 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £873
• Average property buying cost: £276,000

East Dunbartonshire offers a balanced mix of urban and rural areas, providing a variety of activities such as golf, fishing, sailing, and cycling. Locals enjoy a vibrant shopping scene with traditional shops, restaurants, and bars in Bearsden, Milngavie, Bishopbriggs, and Kirkintilloch.

The area boasts natural heritage sites like the Auld Kirk Museum and the Antonine Wall. With a low crime rate of 254 crimes per 10,000 people and an average property buying cost of £276,000 as of September 2023, it’s an ideal place to raise a family. The average one-bedroom flat rent is £873 as of December 2023, offering affordability and a high quality of life in picturesque semi-rural settings.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Crimes: 278 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £313
• Average property buying cost: £173,000

In the Shetland Islands, locals enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes and wildlife. With 900 miles of coastline and numerous hills, the islands are perfect for walking, hiking, and cycling. Kayaking, diving, and fishing opportunities abound in the calm coastal waters and over 300 lochs. The clean air and wild landscapes make Shetland Islands a haven for nature lovers, with diverse birdlife and rare migratory visitors in April and September.

This place offers the best quality of life in Scotland, with top rankings for health, employment, and education. With a low crime rate of 278 crimes per 10,000 people, an average property buying cost of £173,000 as of September 2023, and an average one-bedroom flat rent of £313 as of December 2023, Shetland Islands provide safety and affordability amidst its more than 100 islands. Locals cherish outdoor adventures, wildlife, history, and local cuisine.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Shetlands Island Council (March 2023)

• Crimes: 306 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £753
• Average property buying cost: £199,000

Aberdeenshire, known as the “Granite City,” has been named one of the best places to live in Great Britain for its affordability. The region offers a rich cultural experience, with Old Aberdeen’s sandy shoreline and vibrant dining, shopping, and art scenes. Community centres, libraries, schools, and theatres contribute to a thriving area with modern amenities set amidst picturesque landscapes.

With a low crime rate of 306 crimes per 10,000 people, an average property buying cost of £199,000 as of September 2023, and an average one-bedroom flat rent of £753 as of December 2023, Aberdeenshire provides a high quality of life. Locals appreciate the area’s attractions, including beaches, cliff walks, and castles, as well as its convenient commuting distance and well-maintained roads, even in winter.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Crimes: 399 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £470
• Average property buying cost: £166,000

Angus, considered Scotland’s birthplace and home to stunning landscapes, offers a choice between rural tranquility and vibrant town life. Situated near Dundee, it boasts a short drive to the city. It has a reported low crime rate of 399 crimes per 10,000 people, an average property buying cost of £166,000 as of September 2023, and an average one-bedroom flat rent of £470 as of December 2023.

Locals in Angus have access to healthcare facilities and a wide range of outdoor activities, from climbing and hillwalking to mountain biking, amidst beautiful countryside and rugged coastline. From vast sandy beaches to historic Pictish stones and wildlife hotspots like Montrose Basin, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Crimes: 410 crimes per 10,000 people
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £475
• Average property buying cost: £194,000

Moray is known for its outstanding natural resources, world-famous coastlines, and high standard of living. Voted one of the top 5 rural regions in Scotland for quality of life, it offers affordable housing, great schools, and beautiful scenery. With an average property buying cost of £194,000 as of September 2023 and an average one-bedroom flat rent of £475 as of December 2023, Moray provides affordability. For safety, it has a reported crime rate of 410 crimes per 10,000 people.

Known for its pretty coastal villages, sightings of dolphins, and famous whisky distilleries, it’s a haven for those seeking rural living with access to local brands. Locals mention that they enjoy easy access to transportation, including buses and train services, and appreciate the region’s proximity to both the Highlands and the coast, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and indulging in local specialties like Cullen Skink soup and fresh seafood.

Police Service of Scotland (2022-2023), UK House Price Index (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)