Moving from London to Newcastle represents a significant change in lifestyle, cost of living, and career opportunities.
Quick Facts: London vs Newcastle
| Factor | London | Newcastle |
|---|---|---|
| Average House Price | £700,000+ | £200,000 |
| Monthly Rent (2-bed) | £2,000+ | £800-£1,000 |
| Transport Costs | £150+ monthly | £65 monthly |
Best Areas to Live in Newcastle
- Jesmond – Popular with young professionals, excellent restaurants and cafes
- Gosforth – Family-friendly area with top schools
- Heaton – Affordable, student-friendly with good amenities
- Quayside – Modern apartments with riverside views
Transportation Options
The Tyne and Wear Metro connects Newcastle city center with surrounding areas, including Newcastle Airport.
Regular trains run between London King’s Cross and Newcastle Central Station (journey time: approximately 3 hours).
Planning Your Move
- Housing: Contact local estate agents like Sanderson Young or Pattinson
- Schools: Register with Newcastle City Council for school placements
- Healthcare: Register with a local GP through the NHS website
- Council Tax: Set up payments with Newcastle City Council
Cost Savings
A family of four can save approximately £1,500 monthly on housing and living expenses compared to London.
Job Market
- Strong tech sector with companies like Sage and Accenture
- Growing financial services industry
- Newcastle University and Northumbria University offer academic opportunities
Useful Contacts
- Newcastle City Council: 0191 278 7878
- NHS Non-Emergency: 111
- Metro Information: 0191 203 3199
Local Services Setup
- Electricity: Northern Powergrid
- Water: Northumbrian Water
- Internet: Virgin Media or BT are main providers
Remember to notify essential services of your address change, including DVLA, bank, and insurance providers.
Lifestyle Changes
- Shorter commute times (average 25 minutes)
- Access to beaches and countryside within 30 minutes
- Strong local culture and friendly community
- Rich history and architecture
Weather Considerations
Newcastle experiences cooler temperatures than London, with average summer highs of 18°C and winter lows of 3°C. Rainfall is similar to London, but the north-east coast can be windier.
Cultural Attractions
- BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
- Theatre Royal for world-class performances
- Great North Museum
- Newcastle Castle and historic Grainger Town
Sports and Recreation
- St. James’ Park – Home to Newcastle United FC
- Multiple fitness centers and swimming pools
- Jesmond Dene for outdoor activities
- Coastal walks and water sports
Shopping
Major Centers
- Eldon Square Shopping Centre
- Metrocentre in Gateshead (Europe’s largest shopping center)
- Grainger Market for local produce
Nightlife and Entertainment
Newcastle offers vibrant nightlife along the Diamond Strip and Bigg Market, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants at lower prices than London.
Conclusion
Moving from London to Newcastle offers significant financial benefits, improved quality of life, and strong career opportunities. The city combines modern amenities with historical charm, providing excellent value for money while maintaining good connections to the capital. While the adjustment period may take time, Newcastle’s friendly community and rich cultural scene make it an attractive alternative to London living.
Key benefits include:
- Substantially lower living costs
- Better work-life balance
- Strong sense of community
- Easy access to coast and countryside
- Growing job market in various sectors
FAQs
1. What is the cost of living difference between London and Newcastle?
Living costs in Newcastle are significantly lower than London, with rent prices approximately 60-70% less, and everyday expenses like groceries and dining about 20-30% cheaper than the capital.
2. How long does it take to travel between London and Newcastle?
The fastest train journey from London Kings Cross to Newcastle takes around 2 hours 50 minutes on LNER services. Driving takes approximately 5-6 hours via the A1(M), depending on traffic.
3. What are the main employment sectors in Newcastle?
Newcastle’s key employment sectors include digital technology, healthcare, education (with two major universities), finance, and offshore engineering. The city has growing technology and science hubs at Newcastle Helix.
4. How do house prices compare between the two cities?
Property prices in Newcastle are substantially lower than London, with the average house price in Newcastle around £200,000 compared to London’s £500,000+. This typically means getting more space for your money.
5. What are the best areas to live in Newcastle for ex-Londoners?
Popular areas include Jesmond (trendy, urban), Gosforth (suburban, family-friendly), Quayside (waterfront living), and Heaton (student area with good amenities). Each offers different lifestyle options and price points.
6. How does public transport in Newcastle compare to London?
Newcastle has the Tyne and Wear Metro system, which while smaller than London’s Underground, is efficient and connects major areas. The city also has good bus services, though less extensive than London’s network.
7. What should I consider when planning the actual move?
Consider hiring a professional removal company, scheduling utilities disconnection/connection, redirecting mail, and timing the move to avoid peak traffic periods on the A1(M). Weekend moves typically encounter less London traffic.
8. How different is the weather in Newcastle compared to London?
Newcastle is generally cooler than London by 1-2°C year-round and experiences more rainfall. Winters can be harsher with more likelihood of snow, while summers are slightly milder than London’s.
9. What documentation do I need to update when moving?
You’ll need to update your address on your driving license, electoral register, bank accounts, insurance policies, and register with a new GP. Inform HMRC and any pension providers of your move.
10. How does the cultural and social scene compare?
While smaller than London’s, Newcastle offers a vibrant cultural scene with theatres (Theatre Royal), museums (Great North Museum), art galleries (BALTIC), and a famous nightlife. The city is also known for its friendly, community-focused atmosphere.