Best 5 Places to Live in Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne is a city with something for everyone, from its buzzing cultural scene and iconic architecture to the warmth of its people. Whether you’re relocating from within the UK or moving here for the first time, finding the right Newcastle neighbourhood can make all the difference in how you experience the city.

From trendy urban hotspots to family-friendly suburbs, Newcastle has a wide range of areas, each offering a unique lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to live in Newcastle, highlighting what makes each neighbourhood special, from competitive house prices and low crime rates to local amenities and community atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant social scene, nearby green spaces or somewhere a bit quieter, this list of best areas to live in Newcastle will help you find the perfect place to call home.

Heaton

Listed as one of the top three “Best Places to Live 2024” by The Sunday Times in the North & North East, Heaton has earned a reputation as a vibrant, welcoming community with plenty to offer. Just a stone’s throw away from Newcastle’s city centre, Heaton combines affordability with character, often providing a similar look and feel to the neighbouring (and more expensive) suburb, Jesmond.

With average property prices around £200,000, Heaton offers a world of opportunity, from affordable first homes to larger investments, appealing to students, young professionals and families alike. Its rising popularity and ongoing regeneration have also made it attractive to investors and property developers.

Why Live Here?

• Art & Culture: With regular events, street art and local galleries, Heaton has a creative, cultural energy that draws a diverse mix of residents.
• Green Spaces: With Heaton Park and Armstrong Park nearby, you’re only a short walk from a leafy outdoor space.
• Diverse Housing: From charming terraces to larger family homes, Heaton’s property market is varied and affordable.

Who It’s Perfect For

Heaton is ideal for first-time buyers, young professionals, students and families looking for an affordable, lively neighbourhood with a warm and welcoming community.

Jesmond

Known for its leafy streets and posh boutiques, Heaton’s neighbouring suburb, Jesmond, is one of Newcastle’s most affluent and iconic neighbourhoods. With its quiet, tree-lined streets filled with Georgian and Victorian homes (which happen to be among the most expensive in the city), Jesmond attracts those looking for a refined, family-friendly neighbourhood close to Newcastle’s centre.

Nearby you’ll also find the picturesque Jesmond Dene Park, complete with woodland walks and Pet’s Corner — a small petting zoo home to goats, sheep, peacocks and rabbits.

Why Live Here?

• Boutique Shops & Restaurants: Jesmond is known for its upscale shops and variety of restaurants along Acorn Road and Osborne Road.
• Historical Homes: Some of the city’s finest properties can be found among the Georgian and Victorian properties that make up Jesmond’s quintessential aesthetic.
• Scenic Spaces: Jesmond Dene, a scenic park with trails, waterfalls and green spaces is the perfect place for some fresh air.

Who It’s Perfect For

Jesmond is ideal for families, professionals and those seeking a prestigious, well-connected neighbourhood with a mix of local amenities and scenic green spaces.

Gosforth

As one of Newcastle’s more established residential areas, Gosforth combines suburban charm with easy access to the city centre, making it a top choice for families and professionals alike. With its mix of independent shops, cosy cafes and green spaces, Gosforth offers a well-rounded lifestyle with plenty of nearby amenities.

Why Live Here?

• Ample Green Spaces: With parks and recreational areas like Gosforth Central Park and Town Moor nearby, there’s plenty of room for outdoor activities.
• Local Amenities: The High Street features a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants, giving residents easy access to everyday essentials and meeting spots.
• Good Transport Links: Gosforth is well-connected by public transport, with frequent buses and metro services to Newcastle’s city centre.

Who It’s Perfect For

Gosforth is great for professionals, families and anyone looking for a peaceful yet accessible neighbourhood with a strong sense of community and lots of local amenities.

Ouseburn

Located just east of the city centre, Ouseburn is Newcastle’s creative quarter, popular with artists, young professionals and anyone drawn to its vibrant cultural scene. Once an industrial hub, Ouseburn has transformed into a lively neighbourhood filled with independent galleries, live music venues and creative spaces.

Why Live Here?

• Creative Hub: Ouseburn’s many studios, galleries and music venues foster a thriving arts community, making it a cultural hotspot.
• Unique Cafes & Bars: The area is home to a variety of independent cafes, bars and breweries.
• History Meets Modernity: Ouseburn combines industrial heritage with modern living spaces, offering everything from converted warehouses to contemporary apartments.

Who It’s Perfect For

Ouseburn is ideal for artists, young professionals and those who thrive in a creative, lively community. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking a neighbourhood with a strong cultural identity and proximity to the city’s nightlife and arts scene.

Quayside

Where the Ouseburn River merges with the Tyne, the Quayside district stands as one of Newcastle’s most quintessential neighbourhoods. Known for its stunning riverside views, Quayside is bordered by the artsy Ouseburn and features some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Tyne Bridge, Gateshead Millennium Bridge and The Glasshouse International Centre for Music.

This area combines scenic beauty with a vibrant social scene, making it a popular choice for professionals and anyone drawn to modern city living with a touch of luxury. With regular markets, art installations and scenic walks along the river, Quayside is ideal for those who value convenience, culture and the bustle of city living.

Why Live Here?

• Riverside Lifestyle: Living in Quayside means enjoying scenic views and waterfront activities, from riverside cafes to weekend markets.
• Modern Living: The area boasts high-end apartments with modern amenities, perfect for those who prefer low-maintenance, city-centre living.
• Bustling Social Scene: Quayside is home to popular bars, restaurants and cultural venues, providing plenty of options for dining and entertainment right on your doorstep.

Who It’s Perfect For

Quayside is great for professionals, couples and those who enjoy the buzz of city life. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a modern lifestyle with a scenic backdrop and easy access to Newcastle’s vibrant social and cultural offerings.

What to Consider When Moving to Newcastle

When moving to a new city, it’s always worth taking the time to become better acquainted with the practicalities of local life. From knowing where the nearest hospitals are to working out how far you’ll need to commute.

It’s also important to consider factors like local crime rates and house prices, which is exactly what we’ll be looking at in this section.

Safety & Crime Rates

Finding little to no crime or antisocial behaviour is often a top priority no matter where you’re moving to. After all, finding a good neighbourhood will help you sleep soundly, knowing you and your loved ones are safe.

As with any city, the types of crime and rates at which they’re reported can vary greatly depending on proximity to the city centre and community dynamics, among other factors. While Newcastle’s crime rate is 15% higher than the national average (as of October 2024), it’s still considered to be safer than Leeds, Liverpool and Birmingham (at the time of writing). Here’s some other useful information:

• Lowest Crime Areas: Gosforth, Jesmond and Heaton are among the safest neighbourhoods in Newcastle.
• Prevalent Crimes: When compared against the national average, most reported incidents are for anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and theft.
• Violence: “Violent crimes” account for about 30% of all reported criminal behaviour, but such incidents have fallen by 4.5% year-on-year from September 2023 to August 2024.

It’s worth noting that this information may change over time and that you should also consider how Newcastle compares with other cities in the UK to ensure you’re painting a well-informed picture of the city.

House Prices

Understanding the housing market in Newcastle upon Tyne is important for prospective homebuyers and investors. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average house price in Newcastle was £203,000 — 7.1% up from August 2023.

This put Newcastle in third place for the highest house prices in the North East but it was still significantly lower than the average cost of a home in Great Britain (£296,000) for the same period. It’s also worth remembering that some properties are cheaper than others:

Property Types & Average Prices:

• Detached House: £400,000
• Semi-Detached House: £236,000
• Terraced House: £198,000
• Flats & Maisonettes: £135,000

Considerations for Buyers:

• Affordability: Compared to other UK cities, Newcastle offers relatively affordable housing while still being a lively city, which makes it very appealing to first-time buyers.
• Investment Potential: Areas undergoing regeneration, such as Heaton, present opportunities for property investment and development thanks to their rising popularity.
• Community & Amenities: Neighbourhoods like Jesmond and Gosforth are known for their well-established communities, excellent schools and other local amenities, which can raise the prices of properties in those areas.

When looking for a new home in Newcastle, it’s important to consider not just the property prices but also factors like community, amenities and future growth potential. Visiting neighbourhoods and consulting with local estate agents can provide valuable insights into the local housing market that you may not be able to find elsewhere.

Self Storage in Newcastle

Whether you’re moving to Newcastle, or from one district to another, you may find yourself needing a self storage unit to keep your belongings safe while you settle into your new home. At Pay Less For Storage, we have three storage facilities in and around Newcastle, all of which feature 24/7 drive-up access (so you can park right outside your unit!), steel perimeter fencing and same-day cancellation.

FAQs

Is Newcastle a good place to live?

Yes! Newcastle is considered to be a great place to live, offering a blend of vibrant city life, cultural attractions and close-knit communities. With a wide range of different neighbourhoods, from bustling urban areas to quieter suburban spots, Newcastle can cater to various lifestyles.

Is Newcastle a safe place to live?

Newcastle is considered relatively safe, particularly in suburban neighbourhoods like Gosforth, Jesmond and Heaton, which tend to have lower crime rates. Like any city, crime rates can vary, with inner-city areas experiencing higher activity. Overall, residents find Newcastle a welcoming and safe environment.

What is the best part of Newcastle to live in?

The best part of Newcastle depends on personal preferences and lifestyle needs. For example, Heaton and Gosforth are popular with families for their community feel, while Jesmond is known for its more affluent and picturesque setting. For those seeking a vibrant arts scene, Ouseburn may be a top choice.

What is the posh bit of Newcastle?

Jesmond is often considered Newcastle’s most upscale neighbourhood, with its Georgian and Victorian homes, boutique shops and leafy streets. Known for its charm and higher property prices, Jesmond attracts those looking for a touch of prestige close to the city centre.

Where is the cheapest place to live in Newcastle?

Areas like Byker and Walker tend to offer more affordable housing options within Newcastle, making them popular with first-time buyers and people on a budget. Prices can vary across neighbourhoods, so it’s worth exploring different areas to find the best place for you.

Are house prices going up in Newcastle upon Tyne?

Yes, house prices in Newcastle have increased by 7.1% year-over-year as of August 2024. The city’s rising popularity and demand suggest a robust property market, with some neighbourhoods — such as Heaton — going through a regeneration and attracting more buyers.