IF you don’t already live in Durham- why not?

We may be biased, but we think Durham is a fantastic place to live and move to.

The city is loaded with history and is constantly being developed in order to make it an even better place to live.

Still not convinced? Here are seven reasons why Durham is a fantastic place to live.

It’s home to some affordable properties

According to Zoopla, the average house price in the UK right now is £289,622.

In Durham, the average property price stands at £166,686 which is more than £122,000 cheaper than the UK average.

This makes Durham a particularly attractive place for those hoping to invest in an affordable property.

Right now, the cheapest Durham home for sale is just £44,950 and is situated in Sherburn Hill.

… as well as luxe and upmarket ones.

Durham is renowned for having an eclectic range of properties.

While you can find affordable options, there are also some more high-end properties in the city.

The Northern Echo: (Photo: Lincoln Miles/ Zoopla)(Photo: Lincoln Miles/ Zoopla)

This six bedroom house is on the market for 1.3m and is a stunning period mansion.

Would this be considered your dream home?

Your kids can get a top-quality education

Your children won’t even need to leave their home city in order to receive top-quality further education.

Durham University is considered to be one of the most prestigious in world and is currently ranked 7th in the UK.

The university offers a broad range of subjects from accounting to Visual Arts and Film studies.

There are some fantastic towns and cities right on your doorstep

If you live in Durham, you are lucky enough to be situated in the fantastic County Durham.

This means there are some busy, beautiful and historic towns and cities right on your doorstep.

Bishop Auckland, Darlington and Consett are just a short car journey away.

While it’s slightly further afield in the North East, Newcastle is just 30 minutes away- ideal for day trips and shopping.

It’s not bad on the eye

There’s no denying that Durham is stunning.

In 2019, National Geographic even names Durham as one of the eight most beautiful British cities.

And once you walk through the city and admire the beautiful buildings in the area, it’s clear to see why.

The Northern Echo: Durham CathedralDurham Cathedral

(Photo: Geograph/ David Dixon)

The local cathedral looks majestic and imposing over the skyline while the Botanic Gardens are a must-see beauty spot best admired in the spring time.

There’s plenty to do

One thing is for sure- you will never run out of things to do in Durham.

For a taste of culture, you can always take a trip to the Durham Museum or browse historic artefacts at the Oriental Museum.

The city centre is packed with independent retailers and market hall is a bustling hub filled with unique items and food-based events.

There are 10 acres of land to explore at Wharton Park, which is also home to a café and play area.  

The Northern Echo: Wharton ParkWharton Park

(Photo: Geograph/peter robinson)

The walls of Durham Castle have seen many things, as the castle has been continuously occupied since the 11th century.

Still stuck for ideas? Take the kids to the local Diggerland which is just a fifteen minute drive from Durham Cathedral.

Durham’s transport system is continually evolving

Durham is a relatively small city, meaning most places are within walking distance and it’s easy to get around.

Trains to Newscastle and Darlington, in particular, run on a regular basis

However, the city also has a great transportation system in place meaning it is easy to get a bus into/out of the city.

Planning permission has also been granted to update Durham bus station to make it more modern and spacious.

What is your favourite thing about living in Durham? Let us know in the comments.