Edinburgh, Scotland

"I always describe Edinburgh as: As Boston is to New York, so is Edinburgh to London. In other words, Edinburgh is London's smaller, more genteel cousin. Most Americans would call it quaint. It's a compact city and you can walk almost anywhere. For Americans, the UK can be quite expensive. This can be exaggerated in Scotland, as they tend to pay about 10 - 15% less in salaries than in London," remarked one expat living in Edinburgh, Scotland.

"Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Before moving to Edinburgh, expats should be aware of several important factors. Firstly, the cost of living in Edinburgh is relatively high compared to other cities in Scotland, but it is still lower than in London. Housing can be expensive, especially in the city center, so many expats choose to live in the suburbs or surrounding towns and commute to work. The weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and wind. Winters can be cold and dark, but the city is known for its beautiful summers. It's advisable to invest in good quality, warm clothing and waterproof shoes. Edinburgh is a very walkable city, with an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Owning a car is not necessary for getting around the city, and parking can be expensive and difficult to find. The healthcare system in Scotland is publicly funded, and expats who are legally resident in the country are eligible for free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS). However, it's recommended to have private health insurance to cover any additional medical needs. Edinburgh is a multicultural city with a high standard of education. There are numerous international schools, as well as public and private schools, offering a range of curricula. The city is famous for its festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the Edinburgh International Book Festival. These events attract artists, performers, and visitors from around the world. Scottish people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. However, the Scottish accent and local slang can be difficult to understand at first, so it might take some time to get used to it. Finally, it's important to note that Scotland has its own legal system, separate from the rest of the UK. This affects various aspects of life, from property law to criminal justice, so it's worth familiarizing yourself with the basics before you move," remarked one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.

"Finding a place to live in Edinburgh involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down the areas in the city where you can afford to live. Edinburgh is divided into different areas, each with its own unique character and price range. Next, decide on the type of accommodation you want. This could be a flat, a house, a room in a shared house, or student accommodation. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Edinburgh. These include Rightmove, Zoopla, and Citylets. You can also use a letting agent to help you find a place. They can provide you with a list of available properties that match your criteria. However, keep in mind that using a letting agent may involve additional fees. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to see the property in person and ask any questions you may have. If you decide to proceed with a property, you'll need to fill out an application and provide references. You'll also need to pay a deposit and the first month's rent upfront. Finally, before you move in, make sure to check the inventory and condition of the property. This will help you avoid any disputes with the landlord at the end of your tenancy. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," remarked one expat living in Edinburgh, Scotland.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Edinburgh, is often located in the city center or in popular residential areas such as Leith, Stockbridge, or Morningside. These homes are usually within walking distance to local amenities, including shops, restaurants, and public transportation. The apartments, often referred to as 'flats' in Scotland, are typically part of traditional Georgian or Victorian terraced buildings, featuring high ceilings, large windows, and period features such as ornate cornicing and fireplaces. They usually have a living room, one or two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Some may also have a small study or a spare room. Homes are generally more spacious, often semi-detached or detached, with a garden. They may have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a larger kitchen, and possibly a garage. Both flats and houses in Edinburgh are typically furnished to a high standard, with modern appliances and comfortable furniture. They often have central heating, and some may also have a fireplace. Despite the traditional exterior, many expat homes in Edinburgh have been renovated to include modern conveniences such as fitted kitchens, updated bathrooms, and energy-efficient windows. However, they still retain their original charm and character, offering a unique blend of old and new. In terms of decor, it varies widely depending on the owner's taste, but it's common to see a mix of contemporary and traditional Scottish elements. This could include tartan fabrics, wooden furniture, and artwork featuring Scottish landscapes or landmarks. Finally, given Edinburgh's hilly terrain, many homes and apartments offer stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, or the Firth of Forth," wrote a member in Edinburgh.

"As of 2021, the average cost of a property in Edinburgh is approximately £300,000. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the area and type of property. For example, a one-bedroom flat in the city centre may cost around £200,000, while a larger family home in a more suburban area could cost upwards of £500,000. It's also worth noting that Edinburgh's property market has seen consistent growth in recent years, so these prices are likely to continue rising," said one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.

"There's the American Women's Club, but generally you meet people through work/volunteering or if you're a mom, at the gym or creche (day care)," said one expat in Edinburgh.

"Before retiring in Edinburgh, expats should be aware that the cost of living can be quite high, especially in comparison to other parts of Scotland. The city is known for its high-quality healthcare system, but expats should ensure they are eligible for the National Health Service or have adequate private health insurance. Understanding the tax system in Scotland is crucial as it differs from the rest of the UK, with Scottish residents paying different rates of income tax. Expats should also be aware of the weather in Edinburgh, which can be quite cold and rainy, especially in the winter months. Edinburgh is a city rich in history and culture, so expats should take the time to learn about local customs and traditions. The city is also known for its festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which can make the city very busy during the summer months. Public transportation in Edinburgh is excellent, with a comprehensive network of buses and trams, so owning a car is not necessary. However, if you do decide to drive, you should familiarize yourself with the UK's driving laws and regulations. Finally, expats should be aware that Scotland has its own legal system, separate from the rest of the UK, so it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities under Scottish law," wrote a member in Edinburgh.

"The main and fastest growing industry here is Finance & Banking. With Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Halifax/Bank of Scotland (HBOS) based here, quite a few British people move up from London for a better life balance. That being said, the property market has ballooned up here and is still strong now, even when London is starting to dip. It can be very difficult to buy a property at the moment. Most people find jobs through the newspaper Scotland on Sunday (scotsman.com); s1jobs.com, or monster.co.uk," wrote a member in Edinburgh.

"People seem to have a good work/life balance. Generally working hours are 35 - 40 per week; and people will go out during the week if they don't have kids. Sport is pretty big in Scotland. There are 2 football (soccer) teams in Edinburgh plus two 'major league' teams in Glasgow to follow. The scotland rugby team plays at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. Church and religion are less popular than in the US. But the Scots are so polite, no one would ever ask you your religion anyway," remarked one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.

"Expats in Edinburgh often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. They enjoy the rich history and stunning architecture of the city, with landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Many expats also appreciate the vibrant arts scene, particularly the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Scottish tradition of storytelling is another aspect of the culture that expats enjoy, as well as the local cuisine, including haggis and Scotch whisky. The beautiful natural surroundings, including Arthur's Seat and the Pentland Hills, are also highly valued. Lastly, expats often mention the high quality of life in Edinburgh, with excellent public services, healthcare, and education," commented one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.

"Expats in Edinburgh often find the local accent and dialect challenging to understand, as it can be quite distinct and different from standard English. The weather can also be a challenge, as it is often cold, rainy, and unpredictable. Some expats may find the local cuisine, which includes dishes like haggis and black pudding, to be unfamiliar and not to their taste. The Scottish culture of reserved politeness can also be difficult for expats from more outgoing cultures to adjust to. Additionally, the cost of living in Edinburgh is relatively high, which can be a challenge for expats. Lastly, navigating the local bureaucracy and understanding the Scottish legal and healthcare systems can also be challenging for newcomers," wrote a member in Edinburgh.

"Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, generally has a lower crime rate compared to other major cities in the UK. However, like any other city, it does experience some level of crime. The most common types of crime reported in Edinburgh are typically non-violent and include theft, vandalism, and minor assaults. The city centre, being a popular tourist destination, can see higher instances of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. Edinburgh's police force is proactive in maintaining safety and security, and there are numerous initiatives in place to reduce crime rates further. The city also has a strong community spirit, which aids in crime prevention. Overall, while crime does exist in Edinburgh, it is generally considered a safe city to live in and visit," remarked one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.

"Edinburgh is a truly cosmopolitan town. Although English is the common language, you will also hear Urdu or Hindi along with a host of European languages from travellers," said one expat who made the move to Edinburgh.