Is Wales underrated? Top 5 places to live in Wales and Why

Wales is a beautiful place. From Welsh Cakes to rugby, the country is fiercely proud of its heritage and culture. With a total population of 3.17 million people in 2021 living in a 20,779 km square area, there is a mixture of green open spaces and city living available in Wales. But where is the best place to live in Wales? Well, that depends what you’re after. Take a look at where and why you could live in these places in Wales. 

1. Cardiff – 357,200 Population

Cardiff, Cardiff, Cardiff. The capital of Wales and a well respected city. With 3 universities within its parameters, the city is a hub of culture for both young and old. The most notable parks are Roath and Bute park. It’s no surprise to see people flock there, once the Welsh weather permits. There is no shortage of places to relax outdoors. One of Cardiff’s main attractions is the famous Cardiff Castle. It began construction in 55AD but the main bailey and moat was constructed in the 15th century. The St David’s shopping centre is where you’ll find all the familiar brands and outlets with a few independent shops thrown in. Not far away from the shopping centre is Cardiff Market. Situated in an old female prison, the market has an historic feel but is filled with a substantial range and variety of food stalls. To round off why Cardiff is such a desirable place to live, it has the fourth-lowest monthly rent of all the UK’s university cities. Overall, an excellent place to settle. 

2. Newport – 145,700 Population

A stone’s throw from the aforementioned Cardiff, Newport is the definition of an up and coming city. It has excellent connections with a direct train line to Cardiff, Reading and London Paddington. The average house price is £219,406 making it more accessible and affordable for 1st time buyers. But what is there to do? A great 1st stop would be Beer Me – Tiny Rebel Brewing Co, a new bar & kitchen offering a range of activities such as beer festivals (shock) and live music. Not without its own history, Newport is home to Tredegar House. Tredegar House is a stunning national trust estate with delightful gardens, tours and the occasional outdoor cinema. 

3. Swansea – 246,217 Population

Swansea could be compared to Cardiff in the same sense you would compare two brothers. The two cities share as many similarities as they do differences. The two football teams, Swansea and Cardiff City, are fiercely competitive and are the biggest derby match in Welsh football. In addition to a thriving football team, Swansea has one of the most exciting streets in Wales – Wind Street. Voted one of the top 10 for student city’s nightlife, Wind street is an almost guaranteed fun night out. In addition to a great nightlife, Swansea is a coastal city. To round it off, the average house price is £188,648.

4. Tenby- 5,500 – 30,000 Population

Tenby offers a different lifestyle compared to the 3 other cities mentioned. A coastal community situated in the county of Pembrokeshire, the town’s population ranges from 5,500 in the off tourist season to over 30,000 in summer months. This is great for those enjoying the quieter life but also fancy some company in the summer. Featuring 4 km of sandy beaches, it’s not surprising why people flock here in summer. Keeping with traditional UK holiday fun, you can go fishing, visit the museum and art gallery, or just kick back and relax on one of the two famous beaches Tenby has to offer. Tenby is not the place if you love the club or are looking for a fast life. But might just hit the spot if you’re a slower paced person.

5. Abersoch – 2602 Population

Quite the contrast to where we started, Abersoch has a tiny population and is on a similar playing field to Tenby, but with a little over half that of the Pembrokeshire seaside community. Abersoch is different from all previously mentioned places to live as it is situated in North Wales, not far from Snowdonia National Park. Interestingly, the most expensive street in Wales is in Abersoch. On Benar Headland, the average property for sale price is £1,928,000. To add to the money that Abersoch can burn in your pocket, there are a range of sailing and water sport activities that are popular in the village. Overall, Abersoch is not the place to go on a budget. However, if you’re looking for a domestic holiday or somewhere to spend your hard earned money, Abersoch might be the place for you.

Written by Harris & Birt, one of Wales’ leading practices of Chartered Surveyors and Estate Agents.