Living in Cambridge – Top 9 Moving Home Tips
Are you considering a move to Cambridge?
Renowned globally as the home of the prestigious University of Cambridge, this vibrant city offers a wealth of experiences for everyone.
Nestled in picturesque Cambridgeshire, Cambridge’s unique charm is evident in its leisurely punting along the River Cam, historic university buildings, and a cyclist-friendly pedestrian centre.
Relocating can be daunting, but gathering comprehensive information beforehand can ease the transition.
If Cambridge is on your radar, you’re in the right place!
Our guide provides invaluable insights into life in this enchanting city.
From understanding the housing market to discovering top dining spots, we cover all the essentials.
Imagine living where history meets modernity, enjoying coffee in quaint cafés and exploring world-class museums.
Cambridge has something to offer whether you’re a student, professional, or family.
Our top 9 moving tips will help you settle in comfortably.
We delve into practical aspects like property prices and highlight the vibrant cultural scene, including theatres, galleries, and annual events that unite the community.
If the thought of living in Cambridge excites you, read on.
Let us guide you through the intricacies of making this historic and dynamic city your new home.
Table of Contents
An Introduction to Cambridge
Nestled along the River Cam, just 55 miles north of London, Cambridge is the vibrant county town of Cambridgeshire.
Although it officially became a city in 1951, Cambridge’s rich history dates back much further.
Archaeological finds at Fitzwilliam College reveal settlements from the Bronze Age!
Cambridge was a vital trading hub during the Roman occupation until 410 AD, and its importance continued even after the Romans left. Fast forward to 1209, when the University of Cambridge was established, and the city’s identity has been shaping ever since.
Today, Cambridge is home to around 129,000 people, including 25,000 students, making it the second-largest city in Cambridgeshire and the 54th-largest in the UK.
As you stroll through Cambridge, you’ll be struck by the university’s influence—its impressive buildings dominate the skyline and give the city a unique charm.
But Cambridge isn’t just about history and education.
It’s also a burgeoning tech hub, often referred to as “Silicon Fen,” with a strong focus on bioscience and software industries.
The city’s innovative spirit attracts many students and professionals, making it a global leader in technology.
Living in Cambridge means becoming part of a city that beautifully blends a rich historical past with a dynamic, forward-looking future.
If you’re considering making Cambridge your home, you’re stepping into a community that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and at the forefront of modern innovation.
Welcome to Cambridge, where history meets the future!
Best Places to Live in Cambridge
No matter why you are considering living in Cambridge, the city has a home that’s perfect for you.
Though relatively small, Cambridge is packed with diverse housing options suitable for everyone.
The city features a variety of fantastic neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm.
Understanding what each area offers is crucial before making your decision. If you’re unfamiliar with the city, it can be challenging to grasp the nuances of each neighbourhood.
To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best locations in Cambridge to help you find the ideal spot for your new home.
Chesterton
Chesterton lies nestled on the banks of the River Cam, just over a mile northeast of Cambridge Station.
This charming suburb is one of Cambridge’s hidden gems—it even made The Times’ list of the best places to live in the UK in 2018! Praised for its prime location, diverse amenities, and excellent transport links, Chesterton offers a unique blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity.
Living in Cambridge’s Chesterton means you’re a short walk from the vibrant city centre, packed with historical landmarks, cultural hotspots, and lively markets. Yet, the countryside is equally accessible, offering a peaceful escape whenever you need it.
This perfect balance makes living in Chesterton an attractive choice for those seeking city life and serene landscapes.
The suburb boasts a variety of local shops, cosy cafes, and lush parks, ensuring residents have everything they need close by. Excellent transport connections, including well-served bus routes and cycling paths, make commuting easy, whether you’re heading into Cambridge for work or exploring further afield.
Chesterton could be the ideal spot if you’re considering living in Cambridge. Its unique city-rural living mix offers the best of both worlds, making it a perfect place to call home.
Embrace the charm and convenience of Chesterton, where your new adventure in Cambridge awaits!
Milton Road
Milton Road is a fantastic choice for city enthusiasts looking to experience the best of living in Cambridge.
This key thoroughfare runs through Chesterton and King’s Hedges, extending north of Cambridge and linking the city with the A14. Starting at Mitcham’s Corner and stretching northwest for about two miles, Milton Road is a vital city artery.
The area has undergone significant redevelopment. The improvements, including better cycling routes and a pedestrian-friendly design, have significantly increased its popularity. This transformation has made Milton Road a bustling hub, perfect for those who enjoy being at the heart of city life.
Living along Milton Road means easy access to amenities, including local shops, cafes, and parks. Its strategic location ensures residents are never far from the vibrant city centre or the tranquil outskirts, offering the perfect balance for urban living.
Milton Road offers a convenient and dynamic lifestyle for those considering living in Cambridge.
Newmarket Road
Ideal for young professionals, students, and lovers of inner-city life, Newmarket Road is right in the thick of the action. Just a short walk from Cambridge’s city centre, Newmarket Road offers residents a prime central location.
This exciting area is home to some of the best restaurants, shops, and bars, making it perfect for those who love frequenting these spots.
Living on Newmarket Road means you are just a few steps away from the city’s shops, diverse dining options, lively bars, theatres, museums, and historic colleges.
It’s a neighbourhood that truly puts you at the heart of Cambridge’s bustling scene.
The excellent transport links here ensure that commuting around the city is a breeze and provide quick access to Cambridge’s various campuses and colleges.
You can visit the Cambridge City Council for more details on Cambridge’s vibrant life and amenities.
If you’re considering living in Cambridge, Newmarket Road offers an exciting lifestyle with everything you need right at your doorstep.
From the convenience of urban living to the rich cultural experiences nearby, Newmarket Road is a top choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in all Cambridge offers.
Trumpington
Trumpington is a vibrant neighbourhood located to the south of Cambridge.
This area is renowned for its unique blend of modern developments and historical charm, spurring its rapid growth in recent years.
Residents of Trumpington enjoy the best of both worlds, with contemporary housing options set amidst a backdrop of historic sites and lush green spaces.
Trumpington is a haven for families and professionals, boasting excellent schools and abundant parks that offer a wealth of recreational opportunities.
The sprawling Trumpington Meadows, a large country park, is a standout feature with extensive walking and cycling paths. Its proximity to the M11 motorway makes commuting to London and other nearby cities a breeze, adding to its appeal.
In addition to its practical amenities, Trumpington has a keen sense of community, with regular local events and a bustling community centre. The Trumpington Pavilion hosts various activities and classes, fostering a close-knit neighbourhood atmosphere.
Trumpington’s suburban feel, combined with modern conveniences and excellent transport links, makes it an ideal place for those looking to enjoy a balanced and dynamic lifestyle in Cambridge.
House Prices in Cambridge
Living in Cambridge is an excellent choice for various buyers, thanks to its world-renowned university, vibrant community, and rich history.
Cambridge’s reputation as a prestigious academic hub makes it particularly attractive to students and alumni who fall in love with the city during their studies.
According to Zoopla, the average house price in Cambridge is £592,033.
For comparison, the average house price in London is a staggering £742,968, making Cambridge a more affordable yet still desirable option.
Although the housing market in Cambridge has seen significant changes in recent years, prices may fluctuate but remain cheaper than the capital.
If you’re thinking of living in Cambridge, it’s worth regularly exploring Zoopla to monitor the market and make an informed decision about your future home.
Cambridge continues to be a top choice for discerning buyers.
Cost of Living
Understanding the cost of living will be crucial for anyone considering living in Cambridge.
Eating out in Cambridge offers a wide range of options, with prices varying depending on the type of establishment.
On average, you can expect to pay around £15 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, while a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs about £70.
If you’re in the mood for fast food, a typical meal is priced at £7.69.
For coffee lovers, a cappuccino or latte averages around £3.36.
Grocery shopping is affordable, with 1 litre of milk costing £1.36, a loaf of bread at £1.64, and 1kg of chicken priced at £8.13.
In addition to various dining options, Cambridge residents have access to popular food delivery services like Just Eat, Deliveroo, and TripAdvisor.
These services can help you explore the best local eateries and takeaways while spending less.
For those who prefer home-cooked meals, all major UK supermarket brands are present in the city, making grocery shopping convenient and affordable.
Overall, the cost of living in Cambridge is favourable, especially compared to the capital.
While housing and some other expenses might be high, the affordability of food and groceries helps balance the budget.
For more detailed information on the cost of living in Cambridge, visit Numbeo.
Living in Cambridge offers a unique blend of academic prestige, cultural richness, and reasonable living costs, making it an attractive option for many.
Restaurants in Cambridge
Cambridge offers a culinary scene that is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.
From traditional British fare to exotic international cuisines, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
According to TripAdvisor, some of the best restaurants in Cambridge include:
Namaste Village – Vegan and Indian food
Golpo Bengal Cafe & Restaurant – Asian food
Restaurant 22 (Michelin starred) – British & European food
Limoncello Delicatessen & Bistro – Italian food
Cambridge’s dining scene constantly evolves, with new restaurants and cafes opening regularly.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, exploring the diverse culinary offerings is a delightful way to experience Cambridge’s culture.
Working in Cambridge
Boasting a rapidly growing and incredibly diverse economy, Cambridge is a dynamic place to work.
The city is a hub for thriving sectors such as research and development, pharmaceuticals, software consultancy, engineering, and various creative industries.
With a residential population of around 265,000, Cambridge supports approximately 180,000 employee jobs and is home to over 10,000 businesses.
These figures are expected to rise as Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire councils continue to plan for future growth, including proposed new housing developments that will bring thousands of new homes to the area.
Cambridge workers benefit from an average annual salary of £38,000, significantly higher than the national average.
This high earning potential, coupled with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the UK, makes Cambridge an attractive destination for professionals.
Cambridge’s economic landscape is also supported by its status as a leading educational and research centre, thanks to institutions like the University of Cambridge.
The presence of such a prestigious university fosters innovation and attracts global talent, contributing to the city’s vibrant job market.
To learn more about working in Cambridge and current job opportunities, visit Cambridge City Council and Invest in Cambridge.
For those considering working in Cambridge, the city offers not only excellent career opportunities but also a high quality of life
Shopping in Cambridge
If you enjoy a shopping spree, Cambridge is the place to be.
The city offers a variety of shopping destinations catering to every style and need.
The Cambridge City Centre Grand Arcade is a must-visit for those seeking big-name retail brands.
This expansive shopping centre, featuring a flagship John Lewis, spans three floors and hosts over 60 popular stores and restaurants.
In the heart of Cambridge, Trinity Street is a stunning historical area perfect for shoppers.
The picturesque street is filled with fashion boutiques and major brands, ensuring a shopping trip full of unique finds and all your essentials.
This charming atmosphere and beautiful architecture add to the overall shopping experience, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors.
For a more specialised shopping experience, head to Fitzroy Street and Burleigh Street.
These areas are known for their selection of specialist shops, offering a range of boutique gifts and unique items.
In addition to these shopping hotspots, Cambridge also offers a range of markets that provide a delightful shopping experience.
Whether you prefer big retail brands or unique boutique stores, Cambridge has it all, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Schools in Cambridge
Cambridge is renowned for its world-class education, and this high standard extends to its primary and secondary schools.
The city boasts an array of outstanding schools that provide excellent learning environments for children of all ages.
Among the top primary schools are Histon and Impington Brook Primary School, St Alban’s Catholic Primary School, and The Spinney Primary School, all of which have received the coveted ‘outstanding’ rating from Ofsted.
Cambridge also has high-achieving secondary schools like Parkside Community College and St Bede’s Inter-Church School. These institutions are known for their strong academic performances and comprehensive extracurricular programs.
In addition to state schools, Cambridge offers several prestigious independent schools. Notable mentions include The Perse School and The Leys School, both of which have impressive academic records and extensive facilities.
The city provides a robust educational framework for those considering living in Cambridge with children from primary to secondary education.
The presence of these top-tier schools ensures that children receive a high-quality education, setting a solid foundation for their future.
Transport Links in Cambridge
Cambridge offers residents a wealth of excellent transport options, making it a prime location for commuters and travellers alike.
The city provides frequent and efficient services for those considering living in Cambridge and commuting to London.
Direct trains from Cambridge Station to London’s Kings Cross run every half hour and take less than 50 minutes, making daily commutes highly feasible.
Additionally, trains to London Liverpool Street offer another convenient option.
The city is also well-connected to Brighton and Gatwick.
The average journey time between Cambridge and Brighton is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with around 33 trains running daily.
The journey to Gatwick Airport takes approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes for air travellers, with 41 trains available on an average weekday.
Stansted Airport, located just 30 miles from Cambridge, is easily accessible by car, train, or taxi and offers numerous international travel options.
For local and regional travel, Drummer Street’s bus station in Cambridge provides various routes across the UK and local bus services throughout the city.
The city’s compact size makes cycling an extremely popular mode of transport.
Thanks to its extensive network of cycle paths and bike-friendly infrastructure, Cambridge boasts more cyclists than any other UK location.
Park and ride services are also available, offering convenient commuting options from nearby areas.
Whether travelling by train, bus, or bike, Cambridge residents enjoy comprehensive transport links that enhance the city’s appeal as a vibrant and accessible place to live.
Ready to Start Living in Cambridge?
Now that you have a clear picture of what life is like in Cambridge, it’s time to plan your move.
GoodMove is here to make your relocation to Cambridge smooth and stress-free.
We pride ourselves on ensuring your move is seamless and helping you settle into your new home effortlessly.
Our competitively priced removal package includes additional services like short-term or long-term storage if needed.
Serving Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex, our friendly estimators will visit at your convenience to strategically plan your move.
GoodMove offers a new video survey service.
This innovative technology allows us to gather all the necessary information for your move from the comfort of your home, saving you time.
To start your move to Cambridge, simply call us or fill out a quick quote form online.
Our efficient and customer-focused team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Visit GoodMove for more details and to learn how we can make your relocation to Cambridge effortless and enjoyable.
FAQ’s
How do I arrange payment of my council tax, find out about refuse collections, and enrol my children in local schools in Cambridge?
These questions are easily dealt with.
Cambridge Council has a raft of information about the city including the above questions. Simply visit their website
Is Cambridge a Safe Location?
Cambridge is generally considered a safe city, with crime rates lower than many other UK cities.
According to local statistics, violent crime and anti-social behaviour are relatively low.
The city benefits from active community policing, with initiatives aimed at fostering good relations between the police and residents.
The Cambridge City Council works closely with Cambridgeshire Constabulary to ensure public safety and address local concerns promptly.
Are There Any Negative Reasons Sides of Living in Cambridge?
While Cambridge offers a wonderful lifestyle, there are a few downsides.
As a popular tourist destination, the city can become remarkably busy, especially during the summer months.
Traffic congestion is another issue, particularly during peak hours, and finding parking can be both difficult and expensive.
Additionally, the cost of living is high, with steep rent and property prices, which can be a deterrent for many potential homebuyers.
Despite these challenges, many find that the benefits of living in Cambridge outweigh these inconveniences.
What are the Top Five Attractions in Cambridge?
- King’s College Chapel: Famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling, the Chapel is a must-visit. It is also renowned for its choral services, especially the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols broadcast on Christmas Eve.
- Fitzwilliam Museum: Housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities, the Museum is one of the most impressive university museums in the world. Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian artefacts to contemporary art.
- The Round Church: Officially known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, this unique Norman church dating back to 1130 is one of only four round churches in England. It’s a remarkable piece of architecture with a rich history.
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden: Spanning 40 acres, the Botanic Garden displays a diverse range of plants from around the world. It’s a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll and offers both educational and recreational experiences.
- The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences: This museum features an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks. It’s the oldest of the University of Cambridge museums and offers fascinating insights into the history of the Earth.