Oxford is a beautiful, historic city, home to one of the country’s most prestigious universities. It’s renowned for its gothic architecture, winding canals, and academic excellence, and is consistently ranked amongst the top cities to live in within the UK.
Whether you’re thinking of moving with your family or on your own, Oxford is an exciting and vibrant place to call home. Learn more about what to expect, property prices, and a local’s view of Oxford life in this guide.
Is Oxford a nice place to live?
Oxford is considered a nice place to live for many reasons, including the beautiful architecture, vibrant city life, and access to nature. From the Covered Market to the historic canals, it’s an inspiring city that boasts centuries of culture, all built around the stunning colleges of Oxford University.
Speaking of the University, the large student presence attracts a wide variety of events to the city, from author talks at Blackwell's Bookshop to gigs at O2 Academy Oxford. The city centre is home to an abundance of shops, restaurants, and pubs, while Oxford itself is surrounded by green spaces (including the University Parks and Hinksey Heights Nature Reserve).
With strong links to London (around one hour by train to London Paddington Station) and easy access to the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, Oxford offers excellent transport connections for both city and countryside life.
Oxford house prices
Oxford properties don’t tend to be cheap. Living in this charming city comes at a price, with homes going for an average of £478,000 - almost £200,000 higher than the national average.
You can find more affordable homes if you look slightly further from the city centre, including areas like Headington and East Oxford. These do, however, come with a 30 to 45 minute walk into the centre.
Best areas to live in Oxford
The best areas to live in Oxford depend on what you’re looking for. Here’s a quick run-through of some of the most in-demand spots and what you can expect from living there.
City centre
Living in the heart of Oxford means you’re right in the middle of its historic charm, including the universities’ iconic colleges. You’ll be surrounded by the academic hustle and bustle, but be prepared for high prices and smaller properties.
Jericho
This is one of Oxford’s trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its vibrant, slightly bohemian feel. Set by the canals, it offers a wonderful blend of urban life and nature. If you want a lively area that still feels quiet enough to call home (with far fewer tourists), it’s a fantastic choice.
Summertown
North of the city centre is Summertown, Oxford’s high-end residential area. Here, you’ll find detached properties and gardens, making it a popular area for families and professionals. The excellent bus link directly into the city makes it a convenient spot if you need frequent access to the centre.
Headington
Headington sits to the east of the city centre and is a popular choice for buyers looking for a balance between convenience and a quieter residential feel. It’s well connected, with regular bus routes into the centre and out towards London, and is home to a mix of period properties and more modern homes. With local shops, green spaces, and key employers nearby, Headington’s a practical and well-rounded area to settle in.
East Oxford
For anyone looking to relocate, East Oxford is lively and full of character. It’s known for its independent cafés, restaurants, and local shops, particularly along Cowley Road, giving the area a creative feel. Property prices remain high compared to national standards, but homes here can be more accessible than in some of Oxford’s more central or northern neighbourhoods, making it a popular option for first-time buyers and young professionals looking to rent in Oxford.
Education and work in Oxford
Education in Oxford is, of course, excellent. There’s a range of primary and secondary schools, including:
- North Hinksey (Ofsted rated: Strong standard)
- St Frideswide C of E (Ofsted rated: Good)
- Wychwood School (independent)
- Magdalen College School (independent)
For higher education, there are a number of independent sixth forms, as well as City of Oxford College. Then, of course, there’s the prestigious Oxford University, which is consistently ranked the top university in the world.
A historic tour of Oxford
One of the biggest appeals of living in Oxford is the history. Much of the city is centred around the historic architecture of the university, which dates back to 1096. Explore Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, and the university colleges to discover the foundations of modern education.
As you move beyond the university, Oxford’s history continues to unfold. Wander through its winding side streets, and you’ll find centuries-old pubs and hidden courtyards. One such spot is The Lamb & Flag, a historic pub with roots dating back to the 17th century, which was a favourite amongst the Inklings (an Oxford group that included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis).
Find a home in Oxford
Boasting a high quality of life and historic charm, Oxford is a beautiful city to call home. Whether you’re looking for a flat to rent in the city centre or a sprawling, detached home in Summertown, we can help.
Our independent Oxfordshire estate agents have a keen knowledge of the area, and can help you make the right choice for your budget and lifestyle. Reach out to our team today to find your home in Oxford.
