Moving to Manchester: Embracing the Vibe and Settling In With Ease
Manchester is a city that’s always been ahead of the curve. It’s where Ernest Rutherford split the atom in 1917 at the University of Manchester; it's home to the world’s first modern trade route canal — the Bridgewater Canal; it also takes credit for the first intercity railway for passengers and freight.
Manchester’s love for football is also unmatched, thanks to legendary clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City, which continue to set global standards.
But there’s more to Manchester than its love for sports and history of progress and innovation. This is a city that knows how to let loose! Whether it’s the legendary music scene, the buzzing sports culture, or endless options for shopping and leisure, Manchester blends its forward-thinking energy with a vibrant and playful character.
It’s a city that truly has it all!
Are you planning to move to Manchester from another part of the UK? With the right removals to Manchester service, your relocation can be smooth and stress-free—allowing you to focus on settling into your exciting new home.
The Reasons Manchester Has Always Been Iconic
Here are the top reasons this vibrant city continues to stand out as a premier place to call home.
Its Role in the Industrial Revolution
Manchester is often called the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, and it’s easy to see why. The city was a driving force behind a global transformation, with its thriving cotton and textile industry making it a powerhouse of its time. Innovations like the steam engine and the telegraph were also born here.
Its World-Changing Citizens
Manchester has been home to some of the brightest and most passionate minds in history. Icons such as women’s rights activist Emmeline Pankhurst, submarine design pioneer George Garrett, contraceptive pill developer Herchel Smith and mathematician Alan Turing have all left their mark on the world. Living here means you would be sharing a connection with a city that has inspired world-changers across generations.
Its Premiere Football Clubs
The world’s first competitive football league was formed in Manchester in 1888, cementing the city’s place as a pioneer in the sport. Since then, football has become deeply embedded in Manchester’s culture, evolving from local matches to a global phenomenon.
Today, Manchester is home to two of the most iconic football clubs in the world—Manchester United and Manchester City. Both clubs are not just beloved locally but are considered global brands, attracting millions of fans worldwide, hosting international players and competing in some of the most prestigious tournaments. Their stadiums, Old Trafford and the Etihad, are landmarks in their own right, drawing visitors and football enthusiasts from across the globe.
Its Progressive Culture
Manchester is considered one of the most inclusive and progressive-minded cities in the world. It has a rich history of championing social change, serving as the birthplace of women’s rights activism and the early development of socialist ideologies.
Today, the city continues to lead the way in celebrating diversity and inclusivity. From the vibrant Manchester Pride Festival to its thriving media industry, cutting-edge scientific research, impactful economic activities and a flourishing arts scene, Manchester is a city that embraces innovation and social progress in every sphere.
It’s Music and Arts Scene
Manchester has been home to some of the world’s most celebrated artists and performers. Think iconic visual artist L.S. Lowry, Academy Award-winning actor Bernard Hill and legendary indie musician Morrissey. And, of course, Manchester has given us some of the greatest bands and musicians of all time—The Stone Roses, The Hollies, Joy Division, Lisa Stansfield, Noel Gallagher, The Smiths and Simply Red, to name just a few.
The city’s passion for music and the arts is still going strong. From the electric energy of Parklife Festival and Sounds of the City to the internationally renowned Manchester International Festival, where cutting-edge performances and art installations take center stage, there’s always something inspiring happening here. Whether you’re into live gigs, art galleries, or vibrant festivals, Manchester’s cultural scene is sure to captivate you.
Its Inspiring Resilience
Manchester has faced its share of challenges throughout history but has always stood tall. From the cotton famine of the 1860s and the Manchester canal disaster of 1911 to WWII bombings and the tragic Manchester Arena attack in 2017, each crisis has shaped its character. These experiences have built a community defined by resilience, determination and an unwavering spirit to move forward stronger than ever.
Is This Highly-Rated City a Good Fit for You?
Voted the Most Liveable City in the UK (The Economist, 2019) and the 3rd Best City in the World (TimeOut, 2021), Manchester is clearly a great place to move to. However, here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Local Culture
Part of Manchester’s charm is its strong multiculturalism and welcoming vibe. In fact, over 200 languages are believed to be spoken in the city, and over half of its residents are estimated to be from varied cultural backgrounds.
The Weather
Winters are typically mild, with a mean temperature of around 4°C in January and February. Manchester is typically blanketed in snow during this time.
Manchester's summers are also quite mild, reaching about 15 to 20°C. Although it has a reputation as a rainy city, its average rainfall is lower than the UK average. Overall, Manchester is typically moist and misty but not prone to extreme weather.
Cost of Living
Another advantage of living in Manchester is that it is a student city, which means the cost of living is cheaper than in other large cities. Compared to London, the cost of living with rent in Manchester is 32.5% lower.
The average house price in Manchester is less than half of that in London, too.
Safety Index
Manchester is generally a safe place to call home and you can walk around the city center at night with relative ease. Of course, like anywhere else, it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings. The crime rate in Greater Manchester for 2023–2024 stands at 114.6 incidents per 1,000 people, but here’s the good news: things are improving. Crimes like pickpocketing, robbery and illegal possession of arms have been on the decline, showing that Manchester is taking strides toward becoming an even safer city.
Economy
A recent report revealed that Manchester is projected to rank as the third fastest-growing city in the UK between 2024 and 2026, with an annual growth rate of 2.5%.
Its thriving economy makes it a key player in the UK's economy, attracting more investors, including the property investment sector. Other flourishing industries include tech, manufacturing, creative, media, life science and healthcare, finance and business and professional services.
Employment Opportunities
Manchester’s economy is on a steady upward climb and that’s great news for job seekers. Forecasts predict job availability in the city will grow at an impressive 1.8% per year between 2024 and 2026, outpacing the national average of 1.3%.
Daily Commute
Manchester boasts a world-class public transport system that makes getting around the city a breeze. From eco-friendly trams and buses to trains, bikes and even a major international airport, the city is quite well-connected. If you enjoy exploring on foot, Manchester’s city center is highly pedestrian-friendly, with most amenities just a short walk away.
Housing Options
Manchester is also known for its impressive architecture. The city and Greater Manchester’s residential areas are scenic, with home design influences ranging from Georgian and medieval to neo-Gothic, Victorian, Edwardian, art nouveau and other architectural designs that reflect its rich history and evolution.
House options include detached, semi-detached, terraced, flats and maisonettes. Depending on location, property type, size and features, the average price ranges from £200,000 to around £500,000.
Tips for Moving to Manchester
If Manchester's historic and progressive character resonates with you and aligns with your goals, then it’s time to plan your next step. As in any relocation, whether within the UK or abroad, you need to have a clear plan to transition and integrate well into your new home.
Here are some practical tips from our experts at Gentlevan Removals:
Start Your Home Search Early
To avoid the stress of last-minute decisions, begin searching for a home in Manchester at least a month or two before your move. Reliable platforms like OnTheMarket, Zoopla, Rightmove and Spareroom are great resources for exploring property listings.
Keep in mind that areas near the city center are in high demand and can be quite competitive, so it’s worth putting in the time to find the best deals. Set a clear budget and choose a home that aligns with your finances, lifestyle and any special requirements you might have. Starting early gives you the advantage of securing a place that feels just right for you.
Check Transport Links
If your workplace or school is in the city centre but you’d rather live away from the hustle and bustle, areas like Prestwich, Levenshulme, Altrincham, Stretford and Sale are great options with easy commuting access.
For those driving their own car, be prepared for busy roads during rush hour, though traffic is generally more manageable compared to London. However, parking in the city center can be limited during peak times, so plan accordingly if you’re commuting by car.
Bring Waterproof Jackets
If you’re moving from a drier area, be prepared for Manchester’s famously damp weather. While the city’s reputation for endless rain is slightly exaggerated, Manchester does see an average of around 150 rainy days per year, making a waterproof jacket a must-have. The rainfall isn’t usually heavy, but the frequent drizzle and overcast skies can take some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to sunnier climates.
Connect with Locals
Mancunians are known to be friendly and easy to get acquainted with. Don’t hesitate to join local community groups or professional organizations to create a network for easier integration.
This will help you build a network and have a source of information about potential employers or clients, the best schools, house listings, or shopping areas.
Tap the Right Removal Service
Moving to another city, whether it's for a specific period or for good, can be daunting. Just thinking about all the packing, shipping, or storing involved can overwhelm you if you intend to DIY the whole process.
Make your move hassle-free by entrusting the logistics to Gentlevan Removals. We specialize in the safe and secure transport of your household and personal belongings, including piano removals to Manchester or other UK cities and across Europe.
Our team of experts is known for their careful attention to detail and ensures your move is smooth, stress-free and tailored to your needs. Whether it’s packing, transport, or specialized services, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Choose from our range of services and experience excellent service at every point. Reach out to us today for a free online quote.