Are you weighing up potential locations for your next move? If Birmingham is in the mix, look no further! This city has much to offer its residents and is cost-effective and convenient to boot. Discover the top four reasons why Birmingham should be topping your locations list.
- The city’s diverse culture
Found to be one of the first “super diverse” cities in the UK in the 2021 census, which revealed over half the population are citizens from ethnic minorities, Birmingham is a wonderful melting pot of cultures. It has a history of welcoming those from overseas and remains recognised as a City of Sanctuary due to its commitment to include all visitors, wherever they are from.
In addition to establishing a happy and safe atmosphere, the presence of 187 nationalities in one city means there’s an extraordinary range of traditional cuisine, art, and music to explore. You can experience these diverse cultures in one place in Birmingham’s annual festivals, including the International Dance Festival, Jazz & Blues Festival, and Chinese New Year Parade.
- Affordable cost of living
Another attraction for people looking to move to Birmingham is the relatively affordable cost of living. Based on the latest recorded figures for food, transport, utilities, and childcare, the city is approximately 25% cheaper to live in than London, excluding rent. Rent alone is less than half as much as the London average, and there’s a wide choice of new build homes in Birmingham that are energy efficient and cheap to run and won’t require upgrades for years to come.
Birmingham also has a great public transport system, so you can navigate the city without a car.
- Great job opportunities
With a steady economy and falling unemployment levels supported by businesses in a variety of sectors, from finance to manufacturing, Birmingham offers stability for workers in all industries.
The UK’s second largest city is a major tech hub, employing over 55,000 people in various roles. This has led to increased investment from the government and private parties, putting money into the local economy and shoring up the likelihood of long-term success. Birmingham is also the chosen base for many startup firms seeking to avoid the running costs of operating out of London. Over 2,000 new companies were established here as of 2022.
- Good quality of life
Life in Birmingham isn’t all work and no play! The city has many features for residents to ensure a good quality of life.
Relax in the city centre green spaces such as the Victorian Botanical Gardens and the 2,400-acre national nature reserve Sutton Park, which is one of Europe’s largest urban parks. On gloomy days, head to the cinema to see the latest releases, catch a show at one of the four theatres, or enjoy world-class attractions such as the Sea Life Centre and Science Museum.