London, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Leeds were voted 6 UK cities best in the world to live. They were named in the annual World’s Best Cities Report for 2024 by Resonance. London ranked the highest at number one, not only for the UK but the world. Scotland’s biggest city Glasgow came in at #61 for its student life and affordability. The north west cities of Manchester and Liverpool came in at #72 and #74 just ahead of the UK’s second biggest city Birmingham at #85. Another northern city Leeds made it on the list coming in at #88 due to a strong economy and vibrant nightlife.
Why were these UK cities chosen?
Over 270 cities around the world were analysed using data gathered from social media, user-generated reviews, and recommendations. Only cities with an urban area of over one million were analysed meaning other UK cities were not ranked. To learn more about UK cities, check out our Destinations page.
Data was grouped in to 3 categories
Livability – such as green space, museums, universities and cycle routes
Lovability – includes culture, nightlife, shopping and attractions
Prosperity – involves GDP per capita, start-ups, labour force and educational attainment
London #1
Known as the “capital of capitals” London comes in at number one in the world for the 9th year in a row. The city has pulled in the most foreign direct investment especially in the technology sector and housing market. London still leads the way for entrepreneurs and start-ups due to its skilled workforce and increasing number of tourist approaching 20 million per year, which is the highest in Europe. London has arguably the best transport systems in the world with buses, underground and trains running 24/7 form nearly every street!
Glasgow #61
Music and a pursuit of affordable opportunity make Glasgow and increasingly popular place to migrate to. Universities and colleges in Glasgow are thriving with a student population of around 185,000 from over 140 countries. The University of Glasgow is one of the top 100 universities in the world and is known for its historic buildings, which are said to have inspired the Harry Potter school, Hogwarts. Transportation links in Glasgow are good, with an underground system and 186 train stations in the Greater Glasgow area.
Manchester #72
Nicknamed the “powerhouse of the north” and an economy growing faster than any other big UK city, Manchester has become increasingly popular in the last decade. With a world class University and an increasing skilled workforce, the city attracts around 50% of all young professionals moving to UK cities outside London. Famous for its two football clubs and nightlife, Manchester continues to attract around 60,000 newcomers every year. The city has good transport links with plenty of train stations, buses and a tram/metro system.
Liverpool #74
The former seaport and once a integral part of the British Empire, Liverpool is unique for its culture, historical architecture, accent and music. Ranked number 8 on the report for sights and landmarks the city is full of heritage sites located across the city centre. Liverpool has always been famous for its live music and nightlife with of course The Beatles being its most famous sons. Liverpool has two separate rail networks, one for local stations and another to connect the city to other major towns. There is also ferry connections to Dublin and Belfast.
Birmingham #85
The second largest city in the United Kingdom, Birmingham was the heart of the industrial revolution which began in the UK in the 18th century and spread throughout the world. Nowadays, Birmingham is still a vital manufacturing and engineering centre in the UK economy and the city is third in the UK behind London and Manchester. The city has an important retail sector and hosts the largest Christmas market in the UK. It is the largest city in Europe to not have an underground, but does boast the busiest train station outside London.
Leeds #88
The fourth largest metropolitan area in the UK with over 1.8 million citizens, Leeds is the commercial hub of Yorkshire. The city has topped numerous polls in recent years for its quality of life due to above average salaries and lower costs of living. Major employers in the city include ASDA, Burberry, Yorkshire Bank and Channel 4, ideally located to attract graduates from any of its 5 universities. Leeds is surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire countryside which attracts tourists and locals alike.
Honourable mentions
Due to Resonance only analysing cities with a metropolitan area of over one million, a few of the UK’s most livable cities did not make it on to the list, but we thought they deserved a mention.
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is a historic city famous for its castle that sits on top of a volcano! High salaries, good transportation links and a booming tourist industry, makes Edinburgh the most visited city in the UK after London.
Bristol is a vibrant city located in the south west of England, known for its rich maritime history with one of the countries busiest ports. It was once known for its shipbuilding and pirates! Nowadays, Bristol is known for its student life, creative industries and being the UK’s most green city.
Oxford is synonymous with its university which consistently ranks in the top 3 in the world. The city itself is full of students, graduates and professional people which makes it an ideal position for employers. The city itself also attracts tourists due to its architecture, winding streets and bars.
How to decide which UK city to live in?
When deciding which city you want to live in, you want to pick somewhere you can stay long-term. This allows you settle in to the UK more smoothly and build professional and personal relationships that improves your quality of life. According to the report commuting time, crime and affordable rent are the 3 most important factors. The city you decide to relocate to will entirely depend on your personal circumstances, are you single and looking for nightlife? Bringing a family and looking to buy a home in the suburbs?
If you are a skilled worker and looking for inspiration to live and work in the UK, check out our article on how to get here.
If you are looking to study in the UK to achieve a bachelors degree or a post graduate, and perhaps want to live here after? Check out our article on the main pathways.
Latest Visa News
Homes for Rent in the UK [2024]
Homes for rent in the UK in 2024 can be a difficult process when you are new to the country. When you move to the UK for work, you are most likely to rent in the beginning. In 2023, net migration in to the UK was 672,000 with many newcomers moving to popular cities such […]
Immigration Salary List UK (ISL) [2024]
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) will replace the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) in the United Kingdom from the 4th of April 2024. The ISL contains 23 occupations that are most in demand in the UK for 2024, the list will be updated on an annual basis. There is some changes from the SOL including eligibility […]
UK Visa Types – UK Immigration [2024]
If you are planning on moving to the United Kingdom for long term work or to complete a degree, then you will need a visa before you arrive. There are many UK visa types that allow you to work and study, some do not require any sponsorship. Each visa has different requirements in order for […]
Shortage Occupation List UK – Skilled Worker Visa [2024]
The Shortage Occupation List UK 2024 is a list that highlights job roles that there are in demand across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The United Kingdom is currently looking internationally to help fill vacancies in various roles such scientists, engineers, IT professionals and the construction trades. The UK government announced in late 2023, […]
Youth Mobility Visa UK 2024 [Updated]
The Youth Mobility visa UK is a working holiday scheme that allows young people to work in the UK without job sponsorship. This visa is a popular one as it allows you to travel around the UK whilst gaining work experience for two years. You do not have to be sponsored by an employer, meet […]
How to work as a UK nurse from overseas [2024]
Registered nurses are in high demand in the United Kingdom and are currently on the Shortage Occupations List. Nurses (2231) are needed in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland with the National Health Service (NHS) hiring from overseas to close the skills shortage gap. Once you are registered and can work as a UK nurse […]
India Young Professionals Scheme 2024
The India Young Professionals Scheme was launched in early 2023. It became the best visa option for young Indians that want to live and work in the United Kingdom. The scheme is ideal as it allows young people to live and work for two years without job sponsorship. This allows time for you to find […]
What is the Skilled Worker Visa UK?
The Skilled Worker Visa UK is the main pathway for skilled workers looking to move to the United Kingdom. The visa is the second most popular for long-term immigration and attracts expertise in different industries around the world. The visa has been designed to make it easier for people who are qualified in chosen occupations […]
Moving to UK – How to Immigrate to the UK
Moving to another country is a big decision but can be a huge opportunity to improve your life. The United Kingdom is a popular choice for skilled workers with over 1.2 million skilled people moving here in 2023, this is more than Canada and Australia. Most people immigrate to the UK for the British culture, […]
Top 13 Skilled Jobs needed in the UK for 2024
The United Kingdom like many countries around the world, is going all out to attract skilled workers to help fill vacancies in many industries. The UK is looking to fill jobs of the future such as computer science and artificial intelligence, these industries amongst others are expected to increase over the next five years. With […]
6 UK Cities Best in the World to Live 2024
London, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Leeds were voted 6 UK cities best in the world to live. They were named in the annual World’s Best Cities Report for 2024 by Resonance. London ranked the highest at number one, not only for the UK but the world. Scotland’s biggest city Glasgow came in at #61 […]
UK Visa Processing Times Applications
The United Kingdom offers multiple types of visa options including work visas, study visas and visitor visas. UK visa processing times will vary between visa types and this needs to be taken in to consideration when you begin your application. Planning your move such as gathering documentation, booking flights and finding accommodation are tasks that […]
UK Visa Fees Increase from October 2023
The United Kingdom government has raised fees for certain visas from October following an announcement in July this year. Work visas and student visas have both risen with the amount varying depending on your personal circumstances and length of stay. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announce that UK visa fees are increasing to partially fund […]
UK Sponsorship Visas for Care Workers 2024
Care workers looking to move to the UK to live and work are currently in high demand. Out of all the UK sponsorship visas for care workers, the Health and Care Worker visa is the most popular pathway to live and work in the United Kingdom. You will need to have a valid visa and […]
What is the High Potential Individual Visa?
The High Potential Individual visa was created in 2022 to attract recently graduated international students to the UK. It allows international graduates from selected universities to come and live and work in the UK for two years. You must have graduated in the last five years. Students must have graduated from a selected international university […]
Study in the UK – Pathway to Immigration
Are you looking to study in the UK for a bachelors degree or maybe a masters or doctorate? The UK offers a world-class education which leads to great career opportunities and therefor sponsorship by employers looking to retain your expertise in the United Kingdom. A well-planned study strategy can lead to a long-term work visa […]
Work as a Nurse in the UK
Interested in moving abroad to work as a nurse in the UK? The idea of continuing your career overseas can seem overwhelming at first. You will need to have a valid visa and sponsorship from an employer such as the National Health Service (NHS). Most nurses who qualify for a visa from outside the UK […]
UK amongst the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs in 2023
Entrepreneurial talent are in demand around the world, with an increasing amount of countries offering start-up or innovation style visas to attract them. Entrepreneurs are important as they play a pivotal role in creating jobs, attracting investment and economic growth for the economy. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) measure the attractiveness of […]
UK Youth Mobility Scheme for Canadian Nationals
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa is a great opportunity to work and travel in the UK, it allows young people from Canada to live and explore around the country for up to three years. The UK recently negotiated a trade deal with the Canadian government which includes making it easier for young adults to live […]
Most popular ways to immigrate to the UK from Africa
Choosing to emigrate to the United Kingdom can be a life-changing but exciting decision. Not only does it have the worlds 6th largest economy, but is known for its diverse culture, sport and scenery. The UK more than ever is looking for skilled workers across the African continent to help fill skill shortages in sectors […]
Demand for Skilled Workers in the UK 2024 – Skilled Occupations List
The UK government has announced upcoming additions of multiple occupations to the Shortage Occupations List. These changes are expected to be introduced before the end of 2023 and will include occupations from the construction and fishing sectors. You will apply through the Skilled Worker visa. Separately, the Skilled Worker Occupations List contains more job roles […]
What is the UK Graduate Visa?
“Photo by Chris Boland” The Graduate Visa or Post-Study Work was created in 2021 to attract students to stay in the UK after they graduate. It allows foreign nationals to stay in the UK for at least 2 years to live and work once they graduate from a British university. The advantage of a Graduate […]
UK Youth Mobility Scheme for Australia and New Zealand Nationals
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa is a great opportunity to work and travel in the UK, it allows young people from Australia and New Zealand to live and explore around the country for up to three years. The UK recently negotiated a trade deal with the Australia and New Zealand governments which includes making it […]
Most popular ways to immigrate to the UK from India
The UK welcomed over 1.2 million new arrivals in the year ending March 2023, most of which on long-term immigration visas. Indian nationals made up the largest group in terms of Work visas and Study visas, both around 30%. The UK is home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world, over 1.8 […]
UK net migration hits record high of 606,000
According to recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the country’s total population grew by 606,000 in the year ending March 2023. This means for the first time ever, an estimated 1.2 million people arrived in the UK for long-term immigration. 164,000 more people arrived in 2022 than in 2021, mainly due to […]
What are language test requirements for UK immigration?
You may be required to submit proof that you have a minimum standard of the English language when you apply for a UK work visa. This requirement will depend on which type of visa you have applied for, whether you will be working or studying, and how long you plan to stay in the UK. […]
How to immigrate to the UK as a nurse in 2023
Health professionals are in high demand in the UK and even has its own visa, the Health and Care Worker visa. The UK government has set a target for 50,000 more nurses by 2024 in England alone, one of the ways to do this is to attract international talent. The National Health Service (NHS) is […]
UK breaks record with over 679,00 international students in 2022
The UK attracts thousands of international students each year, thanks to its world-class universities and work opportunities. Keep reading to discover some of the top reasons to consider moving to the UK to study. New data from Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) shows the UK now has a international student population of 679,970 as of […]
First ballot for the UK India Professionals Scheme
The United Kingdom’s newest visa will launch on Tuesday 28th February 2023, the long-awaited India Professionals Scheme. This visa will be the easiest way for young Indians to live and work in the UK, for up to two years. This visa is a good way to settle in the UK before applying for longer term […]
UK Job Vacancies and Pay Febuary 2023
On February 2023, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released its latest monthly report on employment in the UK. The report shows a near all time high of employment in the UK with increasing salaries. If you are interested in filling one of these vacancies and want to move to the UK, check out our […]
Best Cities to Work and Live in the UK in 2023
The United Kingdom has long been the world-famous place to work and live in due to the huge number of opportunities it offers in terms of career and life. Since it is among the top economies in the world, those looking for a high living standard with excellent employment opportunities find it the perfect spot. […]
How to get sponsored by an employer in the UK
When companies in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are unable to find qualified workers living in the United Kingdom, they look worldwide to help fill those skill shortages. To be eligible for skilled work sponsorship in the United Kingdom, you need to qualify for a relevant job on a UK occupations list, after this […]
What salary can I earn in the UK in 2023?
how much can you earn in the UK? The UK is a high-income economy, but how much do you need to earn for a comfortable life? When you think of moving to the UK, the first thing that comes to your mind is how much salary you will earn. From April 2023 the minimum hourly […]
How much money do you need to move to the UK?
How much does it cost to move to the UK? The amount of money to save when planning a move to the UK will vary from person to person, having your finances planned correctly is one of the most important aspects of moving to the UK. How much is a visa? Do I have to […]
UK Immigration – Visa processing times – November 2023
How long will it take to process my UK Visa Appplication? The UK is a top destination for many talented people around the world, looking to work or study and build a new life. Skilled immigration benefits the UK economy whilst providing a better opportunity for individuals born abroad. The immigration system in the UK […]
Why study in the UK – Top 10 Reasons
Why study in the UK? The UK attracts thousands of international students each year, thanks to its world-class universities and work opportunities after graduation. In 2023, over 486,107 people chose the UK to further their higher education and increase their job chances. The most common nationality to arrive in the UK to study in 2023 […]
Can I bring my family to the UK on a work visa?
If you are looking to bring your family members to the UK, or you hope to join your family in the UK, then this article will explore your options. Several visas allow family members to join the main applicant in the UK, they are known as “dependants”. You don’t have to be a permanent resident […]
Working Holiday Visa UK
If you are thinking about applying for a working holiday visa in the UK, then you have found the right place. This visa is the easiest way for young people to live and work in the UK temporarily. The visa is formally knows as the Youth Mobility Visa and is available to citizens of participating […]
Flying to Birmingham
Birmingham Airport (BHX) Birmingham Airport serves more than 400 direct or one stop destinations globally with 50 airlines and was the UK’s seventh busiest airport in 2020 with the highest percentage of business travellers after London Heathrow. Just 10km from the centre of Birmingham the airport is connected by rail, road and bus, in 10 […]
Flying to London
The five major airports that service London are Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City. They all differ in size, location, destinations they service and airlines they work with, and it’s important to know which one works best for you when deciding where to fly to. Many visitors to the UK may assume Heathrow is the best airport to fly […]