In this series, we’re going to be exploring some of our favourite rental hotspots. This week, we’ll be exploring Manchester and everything it has on offer for tenants living there. We’ll be looking at everything from what kind of rent you can expect to pay to what there is to do locally.
Located in Greater Manchester, Manchester has always been renowned for its football and thriving music scene, but it has also become one of the most popular renting destinations in recent years. Whether you are looking for lively inner-city living or a family-friendly suburb, this vibrant city will certainly be able to cater for you.
Renting
The average asking rents for any kind of properties in Manchester currently stands at £1,106 (including the city centre) and like most major cities in the UK, you tend to pay more in central areas. Manchester city centre has a wealth of neighbourhoods that all have something unique to offer residents. Neighbourhoods like Ancoats and the Northern Quarter are particularly popular, thanks to the wealth of trendy bars, shops and cafes nearby. If you’re looking for somewhere slightly more tranquil, Castlefield offers picturesque cobbled streets and stunning waterside developments that are still in walking distance to everything that the city centre has to offer. Manchester has plenty of suburbs that are ideal for families and those who are looking for somewhere more laidback. Chorlton and Didsbury in the South of Manchester are popular choices amongst young professionals and families. These areas are close to good schools and a number of green spaces, while still offering lively night life and easy access to Manchester city centre. Prestwich and Levenshulme are also popular with tenants – these areas are more up and coming, so are slightly easier on the purse strings.
Getting about
Getting around couldn’t be easier in Manchester. As well as round-the-clock bus services and frequent trains in and around the city, there is also the ‘Metrolink’, which is a tram service that takes you to key locations such as the city centre, Salford Quays and Manchester Airport. You can also get to various parts of Greater Manchester including Rochdale, Bury and Altrincham using the Metrolink. Ticket prices for public transport vary between companies but most residents using public transport use a ‘Smart Pass’ that gives you access to various forms of public transport for an annual fee. Metrolink have also recently launched contactless system, where you can tap in and out of various stops using your bank card. There are two major train stations in Manchester, the biggest of which is Manchester Piccadilly where you can get direct trains to various locations nationwide. Manchester is also home to an international airport where you can fly to various destinations all over the world.
Things to do
With Manchester being one of the biggest cities in the UK, it will be easier to list the things you can’t do. The city is brimming with everything from arts and culture to a variety of shops, bars and restaurants. The city has a thriving nightlife scene, with clubs and bars to suit all tastes. The favourite hotspots for going out at night are Deansgate and Canal Street. The Northern Quarter is also very popular with its trendy bars and restaurants and Spinningfields is popular with those looking for something more upmarket. Market Street and Arndale Centre is right in the heart of the retail district and you will find all the high street stores imaginable. There is also the Trafford Centre on the outskirts of the city, which has a host of high street stores as well as an entertainment complex. Music and theatre lovers can enjoy a show in one of Manchester’s many venues, including the Palace Theatre, O2 Apollo and Manchester Arena. Lovers of nature can unwind in the variety of parks in the city. Both Heaton Park and Fletcher Moss Park are particularly popular, thanks to the pretty landscapes and easy access via public transport. If you want to get out of town completely, the Peak District and Saddleworth Moors are a short drive out of the city centre.
Like what you see? Have a look at our available properties in Manchester by clicking here.
