Pros & Cons of Living in St Ives

Thinking about moving to St Ives? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in St Ives.

St Ives, a charming seaside town in Cornwall, UK, is a place that has captured the hearts of many. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and rich history, it's a place that offers a unique lifestyle. But like any place, living in St Ives has its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of making St Ives your home.

Pros of Living in St Ives

One of the most significant advantages of living in St Ives is its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK, from the golden sands of Porthmeor Beach to the rugged cliffs of the Cornish coastline. The town itself is a picture-postcard vision of narrow cobbled streets, quaint cottages, and a bustling harbour. This natural beauty provides a peaceful and inspiring environment, which is perhaps why St Ives has become a hub for artists and creatives.

St Ives is home to the Tate St Ives, a branch of the famous Tate gallery in London. The gallery showcases the work of modern British artists, many of whom have connections to the town. There's also the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, dedicated to one of the UK's most important 20th-century artists. These cultural institutions, along with numerous smaller galleries and studios, make St Ives a fantastic place for art lovers.

Another advantage of living in St Ives is the strong sense of community. The town has a population of just over 11,000, creating a close-knit, friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in community activities, from volunteering at the St Ives Community Orchard to joining the St Ives Surf Life Saving Club. The town also hosts several annual events, such as the St Ives September Festival, which brings together music, art, and literature, and the St Ives Food and Drink Festival, which celebrates local produce.

St Ives also offers a slower pace of life, which can be a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city living. The town's location on the Cornish coast means that outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and bird watching are readily available. Plus, the mild climate makes it possible to enjoy these activities for much of the year.

Finally, St Ives has excellent transport links for a town of its size. The St Ives Bay Line, one of the most scenic railway routes in the UK, connects the town to the mainline at St Erth. There are also regular bus services to nearby towns and cities, and the A30 road provides a direct route to London and the rest of the UK.

Cons of Living in St Ives, UK

While there are many advantages to living in St Ives, there are also some disadvantages to consider. One of the main drawbacks is the cost of living. Property prices in St Ives are significantly higher than the national average, making it difficult for many people to afford to buy a home in the town. Rent prices are also high, and there's a shortage of affordable housing.

Another downside of living in St Ives is the town's popularity with tourists. During the summer months, the town can become crowded, leading to issues with traffic congestion and parking. Some residents also feel that the town loses some of its charm during the peak tourist season, as local businesses cater more to visitors than to locals.

While St Ives has a strong sense of community, it can sometimes feel a little insular. The town's remote location and small size mean that it can be difficult to meet new people and make friends, particularly for newcomers. This can be especially challenging for those who are used to the diversity and dynamism of city life.

The job market in St Ives can also be challenging. While there are opportunities in sectors like tourism, retail, and the arts, there are fewer jobs in industries like finance, technology, and professional services. This can make it difficult for people with specific career aspirations to find suitable employment in the town.

Finally, while St Ives' location is part of its charm, it can also be a disadvantage. The town is relatively remote, with the nearest cities, Plymouth and Exeter, both over an hour's drive away. This can make it difficult to access certain services and amenities, and it can also make travelling to other parts of the UK more time-consuming and expensive.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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