Where are the Best Places to Live in Leeds?

Leeds is one of the top five biggest cities in the UK and offers students and professionals a metric ton of opportunities. But if you’ve decided to move into the iconic Northern Powerhouse, there are plenty of areas in and around Leeds to consider. But where are the best places to live in Leeds and which is right for you?

In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best places to consider calling home across the city, providing you with the info you need and make your big move one you’ll wish you’d done even sooner.

What is living in Leeds like?

Leeds is a bustling city that’s filled with vibrancy and life. The University of Leeds is one of the top 100 universities in the world, so it’s popular with students. But it’s more than just a student city, it also offers plenty of employment opportunities thanks to a booming digital industry in the area.

When it comes to food and drink, there are options to suit all tastes and budgets. For shopping, there’s the famous Trinity shopping centre and the enormous Kirkgate Market. There’s also a fantastic range of entertainment, including theatres, galleries and museums so you’ll never be stuck for something to see or do.

For more information about what this wonderful city has to offer read our guide to life in Leeds.

What are the best areas of Leeds to live in?

At 111.6 km² Leeds is a big city, which means there’s a huge variety of places to choose from. From quiet suburbs to apartments in the thick of the city centre, there’s something for everyone. So, let’s take a look at the best places to live in Leeds.

Horsforth

In the northwest of the city, Horsforth is a quiet suburb with plenty of amenities which makes it great for young families. There are supermarkets, restaurants, shops and plenty of open spaces to enjoy. It’s also a great location if you regularly travel by air or consider yourself a keen plane spotter, with Leeds Bradford airport just a couple of miles away.

Leeds Waterfront

The River Aire cuts right through the centre of the city and is home to a huge selection of restaurants, pubs, cafes and shops as well as the train station. It can get a little loud and busy in the evenings, but it’s a trade-off as you’re so close to the heart of the city and everything it offers, which makes it one of best places to live in Leeds for young professionals.

Just a short walk from the waterfront is UNCLE Leeds, offering fully-serviced apartments that are safe, secure and affordable, and right around the corner from everything the city has to offer.

Holbeck

Just outside the centre of Leeds, Holbeck is in the middle of a £15 million redevelopment project which aims to bring new facilities and infrastructure to the area. Despite its proximity to Leeds city centre, it’s also affordable and offers plenty of housing and employment opportunities.

Chapel Allerton

Another choice not too far from the city centre, Chapel Allerton has cemented itself as a popular choice for professionals and families. It’s become a great spot to spend the evening, with a range of pubs and restaurants, and regular events. There are also a couple of supermarkets and plenty of housing options – all within a couple of miles from the train station, which is walkable in around an hour.

Roundhay

If having somewhere close where you can spend time outdoors is important to you, you can’t get much better than Roundhay. Half suburban streets, half open parkland and lakes, it’s a wonderful choice if you have a family, a four-legged friend or you simply love green spaces. You’re also not too far from the city, which is a short drive or bus journey away.

Headingly

Home to Leeds Rhinos and the Yorkshire Cricket Ground, Headingly is a great place for students, families and professionals. Otley Road cuts through the centre of Headingly and is home to a great selection of bars and restaurants. There are also plenty of properties available to suit all tastes and budgets, with most a short walk or car journey from local amenities.

Meanwood

Home to a Waitrose, Aldi and KFC, you don’t have to go too far to find a bite to eat in Meanwood. These nice leafy suburbs are surrounded by woodlands and walks, offering you ample opportunities to explore. And with multiple routes into the city, you have multiple ways to beat the traffic.

Guiseley

If you’re happy to venture a little further outside the city, then Guiseley gives you that quaint village feel without being too far from all the action. It’s also in between Leeds Bradford Airport and Ilkley Moor, so you have options for work and play right on your doorstep.

Alwoodley

If golf is your thing, you really can’t go wrong with Alwoodley, which is home to three golf courses. There’s also Eccup reservoir, which provides great views as you get your daily steps in. It also boasts super school options and plenty of peaceful cul-de-sacs to call home.

Otley

If you work in the city and don’t mind commuting in and out of a quiet little town away from the hustle and bustle, Otley might be exactly the place for you. With more than 15 places to grab a drink or a bite to eat, as well as a monthly farmers market, it’s a lovely little town that leaves you spoilt for choice when it comes to treating the taste buds. It also just so happens to have great housing options and lots of green spaces.

Renting in Leeds with UNCLE

Now you know some of the best places to live in Leeds, why not make your big move into this iconic part of the Northern Powerhouse? Learn more about Living with UNCLE in Leeds and find your perfect place to live.