Dreaming of visiting or moving to Aberdeen? Known as the Granite City due to the construction of its buildings in grey granite, Aberdeen is a city that has a lot to offer and is of interest to many. But like all places, it has its advantages and disadvantages. We’ve put together a list of the top 8 pros and cons of living in Aberdeen to help you plan your trip or move.
Pros of Living in Aberdeen
Cheaper housing
If you want to be a homeowner, you’re in for a treat. According to SDL Property Auctions, Aberdeen is one of the top 5 most affordable cities in which to buy a home. This is all the more attractive given the city’s high quality of life.
Friendly, quiet lifestyle with natural surroundings
Aberdeen offers a unique and attractive living environment, especially if you appreciate friendliness, tranquillity and proximity to nature. Residents often mention how welcoming the city is and how it is less chaotic than other British cities. They appreciate the calmer pace of life. You will find more quiet areas with much less traffic, and parking is rarely a problem. One of the major advantages often mentioned by residents is Aberdeen‘s proximity to exceptionally beautiful natural sites. Just a few kilometres away, you can escape to some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, including magnificent beaches, peaceful hills and picturesque countryside. Neighbourhoods such as West End, Ferryhill and Rosemount are highly regarded for their charming atmosphere, small cafés and cosy restaurants. Whether you are a lover of outdoor adventures or peaceful walks, Aberdeen offers the ideal environment to combine the advantages of city life with the tranquillity of nature.
Easy parking and less traffic
As mentioned in the previous point, one of the advantages of Aberdeen is that it is less busy than other cities in the UK. This means there is less road traffic and it is easier to find parking. This is something to consider if you drive to work or drop your children off at school.
Job opportunities
In general, a new city means a new job! According to the 2024 Ciphr report on UK job opportunities, Aberdeen ranks 9th among the top 15 UK towns and cities for job prospects.
Cons of Living in Aberdeen
Limited Job opportunities
Although Aberdeen offers one of the best job opportunities in the UK, they remain limited and often focused on the oil and gas industry.
Dark, cold winters; grey climate
Autumn/winter in Aberdeen is known for being cold, wet and grey. There can also be quite a lot of wind. The weather is cloudy, so it is often dark outside.
Living costs
Although Aberdeen offers a good salary, the cost of living remains relatively higher than in some other cities in the UK. Indeed: Aberdeen ranks 5th most expensive city in the UK (out of 28 cities) in terms of overall cost of living.
Public Transportation
Residents and visitors to Aberdeen often complain that transport is too expensive, unreliable and limited in terms of the places it serves. They also complain that buses are often late and overcrowded. We therefore recommend that you opt for other means of transport such as a car, electric scooter or bicycle.
Education & Universities in Aberdeen
If you have children, education is a key consideration. Fortunately, there are many schools and specialist schools to choose from. The city of Aberdeen has posted a list of nursery, primary and secondary schools on its official website. And if you are a student, the city has two universities: Aberdeen University and Robert Gordon University.
Neighbourhoods & Community
Like all cities, Aberdeen has some very good neighbourhoods and some less desirable ones. Here is a list:
Best Neighbourhoods in Aberdeen
1. West End
Pros: Affluent, leafy streets, large homes, quiet and family-friendly.
Good for: Professionals, families.
2. Rosemount
Pros: Charming character, local shops, good community feel, walkable to city centre.
Good for: Young professionals, couples.
3. Ferryhill
Pros: Central but peaceful, well-kept, green spaces like Duthie Park.
Good for: Families, working professionals.
4. Old Aberdeen
Pros: Historic vibe, close to University of Aberdeen, very walkable.
Good for: Students, academics, history lovers.
5. Bridge of Don
Pros: Suburban, family-oriented, lots of green space, schools.
Good for: Families with children.
6. Cults / Bieldside
Pros: Wealthy suburbs, great schools, access to countryside, calm and scenic.
Good for: Families, retirees, high earners.
Less Recommended / Worst Neighbourhoods in Aberdeen
1. Tillydrone
Cons: Often cited for crime and antisocial behaviour, underdeveloped housing.
2. Torry
Cons: Some parts considered rundown, reputation for being gritty.
Pros: Affordable housing, improving slowly.
3. Northfield / Mastrick
Cons: More deprived areas, outdated council housing, higher crime.
Healthcare & Safety in Aberdeen
Aberdeen has a strong healthcare system with hospitals and health centres. In addition, there are many doctors, dentists and specialists available throughout the city. If you live near the city centre, it is easy to access. If you live in the outlying areas, fortunately there are good transport links. As for safety, Aberdeen is a safe city. Many neighbourhoods are well frequented, but you may find some that are less so. Be careful in the city centre late at night.
Conclusion
Aberdeen is a very interesting city in the UK to visit or settle in. It offers a good standard of living and houses that are less expensive than in other cities. It also offers a pleasant living environment, thanks in particular to its beautiful landscapes and tranquility. However, it should be noted that the cost of living is quite high and job opportunities are limited. In addition, the winter is grey, windy and wet. In any case, we recommend that you visit this city, form your own opinion and weigh up the pros and cons before moving there!
