Considering a move to Middlesbrough but need to know more before making your decision? Then you’re in the right place. At We Buy Any Home, we understand that relocating to a new place marks a significant life change. And we also know how crucial it is to choose a location that meets your needs and expectations. Because of that, we’ve created a guide covering everything you should know before moving to Middlesbrough. From the average cost of living to the amenities available to residents, read on to discover what the town has to offer.
Is Middlesbrough a good place to live?
While there is no objective answer to this question, there are many benefits to be gained from moving to Middlesbrough. Namely, its relative affordability, numerous local amenities, good transport links and its proximity to the coast and countryside. Additionally, several regeneration projects have been completed recently to make it a more attractive place to live and work.
Of course, there are also some downsides that are worth bearing in mind. For instance, despite significant improvements over the past decade, employment rates in Middlesbrough are still well below the national average. Additionally, crime rates are high in certain areas. With all of that in mind, let’s consider some of the pros and cons below in more detail.
Amenities
First up are Middlesbrough’s amenities. As one of the area’s biggest towns, you’ll find a good range of shops, bars, restaurants and schools across the borough. That includes almost all of the major supermarkets, 47 primary schools and 13 secondary schools – ideal for families! Plus, there are places to eat to suit every preference, from Italian to Turkish, buffets to steakhouses.
On top of that, there is a centrally-located university and FE college, plus a library, art gallery, museums, cinema and several gyms. There’s even an independent shopping quarter which hosts regular artisan markets. And if you can’t find what you need in town, Teesside Park and Portrack Lane shopping parks are only a short drive away.
Other leisure facilities include the Riverside Stadium, Neptune Centre swimming pool, and entertainment venues like Middlesbrough Theatre and the Town Hall. Enjoy getting outside? You’ll also have access to Albert Park and Stewart Park, while landmark Roseberry Topping and the Cleveland Way trails are close by, too.
Transport
Another major advantage of moving to Middlesbrough is its excellent transport links. The local bus station on Newport Road is open 362 days per year and provides services across the town. As well as to other locations in the Tees Valley and along the east coast, like Redcar and Scarborough. You can also catch national coaches to Manchester and London from here.
Another option is to travel via rail. The main train station is situated in the town centre and is serviced by Northern, TransPennine Express and LNER. The latter offers a direct connection to London, while the others provide links to Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, York and beyond. There are also stations located slightly further out in Marton and next to James Cook Hospital.
Otherwise, if you have your own vehicle, you’ll have direct road access to the A66 and A19 dual carriageways. Plus good connections to the coast via the A171 and A174. And, as an added extra, Teesside International Airport is less than 10 miles away – just a 15-minute drive!
Crime rate
Unfortunately, Middlesbrough’s crime rate is one of its major downsides. In fact, the number of crimes committed has risen along with the town’s growing population. As such, there are now over 18,800 incidents per 100,000 people each year – higher than any other area in North Yorkshire. Violence, theft, criminal damage, and anti-social behaviour top the bill.
With that said, it’s worth pointing out that some areas are more prone to crime than others. For example, the centre of town, North Ormesby, Newport and South Bank all have significant levels of deprivation and crime. Meanwhile, more affluent suburbs like Marton and Nunthorpe are considered much safer. Likewise, Linthorpe, Acklam and Coulby Newham are popular areas with families. So, if you are planning a move to Middlesbrough, just make sure you do your research.
Middlesbrough’s closest cities
Want to live within easy reach of northern England’s top cities? Then Middlesbrough is a well-placed option for those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative. Here’s how far you’ll need to travel, the best ways to go about it and what you can look forward to when you get there.
Newcastle – 40 miles
55 min drive via A19(N) / 1 hr 20 by train (Northern) / 1 hr 10 by bus (National Express)
Known for its bridges, historic buildings, and varied shopping districts, Newcastle is the North East’s biggest city. Here, you’ll find high-street brands, department stores and vintage shops. Plus, there are museums, galleries, a live music arena, St. James’ Park football stadium, and a popular Chinatown district. There are also plenty of work opportunities if you’re willing to commute.
Sunderland – 30 miles
40 min drive via A19(N) / 50 mins by train (Northern) / 40 mins by bus (MegaBus)
Newcastle’s neighbour (and football rival), Sunderland, has a rich history in shipbuilding, glassmaking and coal mining. But nowadays, this port city is perhaps best known for its university, Empire Theatre and its annual air show. It is also home to the Stadium of Light, which hosts both football matches and live shows, plus a marina, Roker beach and a pier.
Durham – 27 miles
40 min drive via A19(N) & A181 / 1hr 10 by bus (X12 Max) / No direct train service
Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or a history buff, you’ll love Durham. Both its Cathedral and Castle are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and its prestigious university is world-renowned. Durham also boasts riverside cafes, shops, and a Botanic Garden, and it hosts events all year round. From the annual Miner’s Gala to the rowing Regatta, there’s plenty to see and do.
York – 50 miles
1hr 10 drive via A19(S) / 55 min train ride (TransPennine Express) / No bus service
If you don’t mind travelling a bit further afield, you’ll find another historic gem – the city of York. From its gothic Minster and medieval city walls to cobbled 14th-century streets and countless museums, there’s no place quite like it. There’s also a myriad of shops in the centre and Betty’s Tearooms for a bite to eat. Plus, it is one of England’s largest racecourses on the outskirts.
Is Middlesbrough cheap to live in?
With so much to do in and around Middlesbrough, you may just be tempted to move here. But what can you expect to pay if you do? Let’s take a look…
Average property prices
Prospective home buyers will be pleased to learn that they can get quite a lot for their money in Middlesbrough. The average property price currently sits at just £133, 247 – more than £100,000 less than the national average. Terraces go for even less at just £70,000, while ever-popular semi-detached homes cost slightly more at £150,525. Or if you want to rent, you can expect to pay £569pcm for a 1-bed, £622pcm for a 2-bed and £739pcm for a 3-bed house.
Cost of living in Middlesbrough
Other aspects to consider when looking into affordability include average earnings and the overall cost of living. Right now, full-time workers in Middlesbrough earn an average of £32,743 – around 19% less than the national average. However, it is estimated that many residents could have up to 40% of their earnings left over each month. That is a huge amount compared to other cities and clearly highlights the town’s relative affordability.
For reference, as of February 2024, you can expect to pay the following in Middlesbrough:
- 1L Milk – £1.35
- Loaf of bread – £0.96
- Pint of draught beer – £3.75
- Cinema ticket – £6 per person
- Monthly gym membership – £35
- Monthly bus pass – £57
- Three-course meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant) – £55
Need help selling a property in Middlesbrough?
Despite the many positives we’ve outlined, we’re aware that living in Middlesbrough isn’t for everyone. So, whether you’ve inherited a property that you’ve no desire to move into or you’ve decided to relocate elsewhere, we’re here to help.
Want to sell your house fast and without any uncertainty? No problem – we can offer a guaranteed sale within just 7 days. Or, if you’d prefer a longer timeframe to get things in order, just let us know. We buy homes in any condition and in any neighbourhood. Apply for a free quote online now to get started.
