Best Areas to Live in York in 2026 – A Local Guide for Anyone Moving to York
If you are planning on moving to York, one of the first questions you will probably ask is: where are the best areas to live in York?
York is one of the most popular places to live in the UK. It offers beautiful historic streets, excellent schools, easy transport links, plenty of green space and a strong sense of community. Whether you are moving to York for work, family or a fresh start, there is an area to suit every lifestyle and budget.
At A&M Removals, we have been helping people move to York and across Yorkshire for more than 36 years. We know the city inside out and have moved customers into almost every area imaginable.
Nick, owner of A&M Removals, says:
“York has something for everyone. Some people want village life close to the city, while others want great schools, easy commuting or a lively atmosphere. After 36 years of moving people around York, we know which areas are most popular and why.”
In this guide, we look at some of the best places to live in York in 2026, along with the pros and cons of each area.
Why Move to York?
Before we look at the best areas to live in York, it is worth understanding why so many people are moving here.
York is popular because it offers:
- Excellent rail links to Leeds, Manchester and London
- A beautiful historic city centre
- Great schools and universities
- Lots of independent shops, cafes and restaurants
- Access to the countryside and coast
- A lower cost of living than some southern cities
Popular searches such as “moving to York”, “best places to live in York” and “York family areas” have all increased in recent years.
Fulford – One of the Best Areas to Live in York for Families
Fulford is regularly named as one of the best areas to live in York.
Located just south of the city centre, Fulford is especially popular with families because of its excellent schools, attractive homes and easy access into the city.
The Plus Points of Fulford
- Excellent schools
- Attractive houses and quiet streets
- Easy access to York city centre
- Close to the University of York
- Popular with families and professionals
The Downsides of Fulford
- House prices can be expensive
- Popularity means properties sell quickly
- Traffic can be busy at peak times
Fulford is ideal if you want a family-friendly area close to the city.
Haxby – Great for Families Who Want More Space
Haxby is one of the most popular places for people moving to York with children.
Located to the north of the city, Haxby has a more village-like feel while still being close enough to commute into York.
The Plus Points of Haxby
- More space and larger houses
- Good schools
- Friendly community atmosphere
- Plenty of local shops and pubs
- Easy access to the ring road
The Downsides of Haxby
- Further from the city centre
- Can feel quieter for younger people
- House prices have risen in recent years
Haxby is particularly popular with families who want a quieter lifestyle.
Bishopthorpe – A Beautiful Village Near York
If you are looking for a village atmosphere close to York, Bishopthorpe is one of the best areas to live in York.
Bishopthorpe is located just a few miles south of the city and offers a lovely balance between countryside living and city convenience.
The Plus Points of Bishopthorpe
- Attractive village setting
- Good local schools
- Lovely walks and green spaces
- Quiet and peaceful
- Easy drive into York
The Downsides of Bishopthorpe
- Fewer shops and amenities than larger areas
- More expensive than some parts of York
- Less suited to people wanting nightlife
Bishopthorpe is ideal for people who want somewhere peaceful but still close to York.
The entry to Bishopthorpe Palace, in the beautiful village of Bishopthorpe…
Acomb – One of the Most Affordable Areas in York
Acomb is often overlooked, but it is one of the best places to live in York if you want good value for money.
Located to the west of York, Acomb is popular with first-time buyers, families and anyone looking for more affordable house prices.
The Plus Points of Acomb
- More affordable property prices
- Good range of local shops
- Easy access to the city centre
- Strong local community
- Good bus links
The Downsides of Acomb
- Some streets are busier than others
- Not as picturesque as other parts of York
- Schools vary depending on the area
For buyers on a budget, Acomb is one of the best areas to live in York.
Huntington – Popular for Schools and Shopping
Huntington is another area that is regularly searched for by people moving to York.
Located to the north-east of the city, Huntington is well known for its good schools and easy access to Vangarde Shopping Park and Monks Cross.
The Plus Points of Huntington
- Excellent schools
- Great shopping nearby
- Good transport links
- Popular with families
- Close to the ring road
The Downsides of Huntington
- Can be busy around shopping areas
- Traffic at peak times
- House prices are above average
Huntington is ideal for families who want good schools and easy access to shops.
Clifton – One of the Best Areas to Live in York Near the City Centre
Clifton is a great choice if you want to be close to York city centre.
Located just north of the centre, Clifton is popular with professionals, couples and anyone who wants easy access to the city.
B&M at Clifton Moor Retail Park – lots of big names and supermarkets close by!
The Plus Points of Clifton
- Close to the city centre
- Close to the hospital
- Lots of local amenities
- Good public transport
- Popular with young professionals
- Mix of houses and flats
The Downsides of Clifton
- Can be busy and noisy
- Less green space than village areas
- Parking can be difficult in some streets
Clifton is ideal if you want city living without being right in the centre.
Heworth – A Popular All-Rounder
Heworth is often described as one of the most balanced areas in York.
It offers good schools, attractive homes, easy transport and a strong local community.
The Plus Points of Heworth
- Good mix of houses
- Popular with families and professionals
- Easy access to the city centre
- Good schools
- Plenty of local shops and cafes
The Downsides of Heworth
- House prices can be high
- Popular streets can be competitive
- Some roads are busy
Heworth is a good all-round choice for almost anyone moving to York.
Beautiful terraced houses in York…
Which Area of York Is Best for You?
The best area to live in York depends on what matters most to you.
- For families: Fulford, Haxby and Huntington
- For value for money: Acomb
- For village life: Bishopthorpe
- For professionals: Clifton and Heworth
- For easy commuting: Huntington and Haxby
Nick from A&M Removals says:
“There isn’t one perfect area of York – it depends on your budget, family and lifestyle. We always tell customers to visit an area a few times before they move, especially at different times of the day.”
Planning Your Move to York
Once you have chosen where to live, the next step is planning your move.
A&M Removals has over 36 years of experience helping people move house in York, across Yorkshire and nationwide. We offer:
- House removals in York
- Packing services
- Storage
- Short notice moves
- Furniture removals
We know York extremely well, from narrow city-centre streets to rural villages and busy estates.
Q&A – Best Areas to Live in York
What is the nicest area to live in York?
Fulford, Haxby and Bishopthorpe are often seen as some of the nicest areas to live in York because of their schools, attractive homes and strong communities.
What is the cheapest area to live in York?
Acomb is usually one of the more affordable areas in York while still offering good transport and local amenities.
Which area of York is best for families?
Fulford, Haxby, Huntington and Heworth are all popular with families because of their schools and family-friendly atmosphere.
Where should I live in York if I commute?
Huntington, Haxby and Clifton are good choices if you need easy access to the ring road, train station or main roads.
Is York a good place to live?
Yes. York is regularly ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK thanks to its schools, transport, history and quality of life.
Need Help Moving to York?
If you are moving to York and need a reliable removal company, A&M Removals is here to help.
With more than 36 years of experience, a trusted local reputation and friendly, professional service, we make moving house as stress-free as possible.
Call Nick and the team today on 01759 301020 or email in**@********ls.com for a fast, free quote.