What Is Living In Brighton Like? A Guide To Brighton

Last Updated January 2025

Brighton is a vibrant city along the coast with plenty to do along the seafront, don’t forget to secure those beach huts! It is steeped in history, arts and culture and enjoys miles of countryside walks nearby. It attracts many to its doorstep whether you are a student, family, young professional or perhaps wanting to retire somewhere that has it all and more! Another pull towards living in Brighton is the fact that it is cheaper to live in than London but has many of the same opportunities London does and is also just an hour’s commute to the capital via train.

Despite the fact that Brighton is a relatively large, busy city with tourists coming far and wide it still manages to hold onto a strong sense of community and unique charm. It may be due to all the independent boutiques, cafes and arts scene or due to its proud LGBTQ+ scene or perhaps due to the fact that it is the first and continues to remain the only place in the UK with an elected Green Party MP which only boasts their eco-friendly efforts in the city further; it is probably all three of these facts and then some.

Is Brighton a Good Place to Live?

Brighton is often referred to as London by the sea as it offers similar things the capital does but at a cheaper price and with spanning sea views thrown into the mix. It is said that the residents are friendlier in Brighton than their capital neighbours which might have something to do with the cheaper cost of living, less stressed commuters wading their way through queues and fresh sea air. So, is Brighton a nice place to live? Yes!

Brighton offers many shopping opportunities in the city centre which is conveniently located next to the beach so you’re never far from a great view with high street department stores and bespoke, independent shops, restaurants and cafes a plenty. As well as shopping there is plenty of opportunity to get out and about for some fresh air whether that be along the beach or across the South Downs National Park where the Seven Sisters dramatic scenery will take your breath away (as will the hills). As well as cheaper living costs, shopping and greenery Brighton also offers fun and lots of it, as we mentioned in the arts and culture section you will never be bored living in Brighton.

What Is the Population of Brighton?

Since 2001 the population in Brighton has skyrocketed and has vastly increased ever since, this may be in correlation due to Brighton and Hove (who formed together in 1997) gaining city status in 2001 as granted by the Queen. There are believed to be 277,200 residents living in the city for the year of 2022.

If you want a calmer life and to live in a smaller population, then why not look at our Eastbourne area guide, with 101,700 residents in 2021, it might be the place for you.

Is Brighton a Safe City

There is an average amount of crime that is reported within Brighton in comparison to other cities of the same size, with a crime rate of 95 crimes per 1,000 people. The latest data on police.uk website states that 135 crimes were committed during the month of September 2022 with the highest amount of crimes at 156 taking place in November 2021 over the last year and the least crimes reported in a single month was December 2021 at just 91. It is important that you remember to secure your home to ensure you are most protected from a potential intruder. Take a look at our Home Security Hub on how to secure your home!

Average House Prices in Brighton

The average house cost over the past year for Brighton is around £462,869. The following shows the average property cost in Brighton:

House Pricing by Property Type

Detached- £696,970

Semi-detached- £504,030

Terraced-£530,871

Flats- £309,479

Renting in Brighton

The following shows how much a rental property costs in Brighton:

Room – £764

Flat – £1,742

House – £2,716

Average Property Rental Cost Per Room (PCM):

1 bed –  £1,290

2 beds – £1,810

3 beds – £2,463

4 beds – £2,683

History of Brighton

There are signs and artefacts dating back to the Stone Age discovered in Brighton but it is in Tudor times where we have the very first map of Brighton. The map was created as French raiders burned the town to the ground during Henry VIII’s reign and shows how the town was laid out in the early 1500s.  During the Georgian times was when Brighton started to hold its own with the famous Grade I listed Brighton Pavilion was built in 1787 and the city quickly became the UK’s largest seaside resort which only expanded in the Victorian era as the railway line to London was built in 1841 meaning more and more day trippers were visiting the city. In more recent times, the city has expanded by combining other areas into the town including Rottingdean, Hove and Portslade.

Arts and Culture in Brighton

As a city Brighton prides itself on not following social norms, it is bold and creative and inspires many who live and visit there. One of Brighton’s most famous festivities is Brighton Pride festival, the UK’s biggest Pride festival which takes place every year in August (covid permitting). The festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with music, art, parades, dog shows and more, it is not one to be missed…although if you live close to the centre of Brighton you won’t miss it at all! As Brighton is notoriously known for its creative flair you will not be short on things to do whether you visit one of the many galleries produced by worldly known and local creatives, enjoy wandering, talking to and purchasing local artists work during the ‘Artists Open Houses’, visit one of the many stand-up comedy nights, shows or cabarets or even just as you wander through the city you will encounter many musicians busking and many street performers such as hula-hoopers and fire breathers!

What is the Transport like in Brighton

Brighton is a very compact city and so the easiest way to get around is by foot, you’ll be sure to discover some hidden gems this way too.

Buses in Brighton

Brighton and Hove buses run all across the city and the surrounding towns and there is even a regular sightseeing bus that will take you to the Seven Sisters country park and all the way into Eastbourne along the coast.

Trains in Brighton

There are a number of train stations in Brighton, the main one being the end of the line at Brighton Station which is located about a 10/15 minute walk into the city centre. From here you’ll be able to reach London in less than an hour and all across the country with direct routes to Portsmouth, Hastings, Cambridge and many more!

Boats in Brighton

There are a number of boat trips you can choose to relax on from Brighton Marina which will give you a great view of the city and Brighton Palace Pier.

Airports near Brighton

Gatwick Airport is the closest commercial airport to Brighton and will take you less than half an hour to reach by train and just over half an hour via the A23 and M23.

What Schools are in Brighton

There are 68 primary schools, 27 secondary schools and 17 schools and colleges that offer education to 16-18year olds in Brighton. Nine of these schools and colleges have been Ofsted graded as ‘Outstanding’ including Hill Park School, Downs View Special School and St Luke’s Primary School. One school received a rating of ‘Inadequate’ in 2019 which was Moulsecoomb Primary School and 6 schools and colleges received ‘Requires Improvement’ rating. All remaining schools and colleges received a rating of ‘Good’ or were not rated by Ofsted.

University in Brighton

There are two main universities in the city of Brighton; they are the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex.

University of Brighton

The University of Brighton has several campuses in which to study depending on which subject you choose, e.g. the arts and humanities subjects are held the City campus which is just a stone’s throw away from the beach, pubs and shops. Moulescoomb campus is just a couple of miles further inland and is the biggest of the four campuses here where you can expect to study subjects along the lines of architecture, business, engineering, law, maths and more! Falmer campus is further inland still and is on the edge of the South Downs National Park and here you’ll find nurses, teachers, linguists and social scientists in the making as well as all of the sport facilities. Last but not least is Eastbourne campus which is of course situated in Eastbourne, here you’ll find students studying hospitality, journalism, physical education, sport science and more subjects along those lines.

University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is situated just across from the University of Brighton’s Falmer campus which is just a short bus ride out from the city centre. Unlike the University of Brighton, the University of Sussex campus is all grouped together so you’re never too far away from where you need to be. There is a library, Co-Operative, post office, dentist and doctors surgery on campus and more! At the University of Sussex you will be able to study subjects along the lines of accounting, biochemistry, business and management, computer science, economics, filmmaking, journalism and many more!

Eating and Drinking in Brighton

You’ll be spoilt for choice in dining out and grabbing a couple of drinks or getting your boogie on here in Brighton. Some of our top picks include:

Pubs in Brighton

1. The Regency Tavern

This pub aims to re-capture the glamour of Regency Brighton with its plush interior featuring leopard print chairs and feather boa lamps that sit upon the grand piano. They offer a tapas menu and a Sunday menu here so you’ll be spoilt for choice for plates of delicious food.

2. Komedia Club

Located in the North Lanes this pub offers a wide range of entertainment including comedy, indie bands, cabaret and even kids entertainment at times. The drinks and meal deals served here are well priced and you can’t miss it as there are two huge stripy legs dangling out the front. There is also an independent cinema located above the pub Dukes, be sure to check that out too!

3. Latest Music Bar

This famous pub is one not to be missed as live bands and jazz performances occur here, including some really big names such as Paul McCartney, Amy Winehouse and Fatboy Slim! This pub is one to visit if you’re after something a bit different with a cabaret venue and bar located downstairs and a sky-lit restaurant and bar found upstairs!

Clubs in Brighton

1. Alcotraz Brighton

Alcotraz Brighton is such a fun night out for cocktails and entertainment! We loved our night out here as the actors were all superb in making it such a unique experience, we laughed our whole time here! The cocktails are great too and they make them based on your tastes! 10/10 Alcotraz!

2. 3. Concorde 2

   Concorde 2 is one of Brighton’s largest music venues with famous DJ’s often featuring here! It’s loud, busy and full of dancing so get ready to let your hair down! Concorde 2 caters for all ages but is very popular with students.

    

   Restaurants in Brighton

   1. The Little Fish Market

   This multi-award winning restaurant with a Michelin plate will have you fine-dining with a daily-changing and six course tasting menu of delicately prepared fish cuisine. All the dishes are beautifully prepared and come out looking like an art masterpiece.

   2. Etch

   Another multi-award winning restaurant to visit that also has a Michelin plate is Etch. The head chef here, Steven Edwards was one of the youngest people to win Master Chef in series 6 and has proved his culinary skills since with the multiple tasting menus that are served over lunch and dinner here.

   3. Terre a Terre

   This vegetarian and vegan restaurant is sure to tantalise your taste buds with its award winning, Michelin plate food. It aims to provide indulgence rather than abstinence within its dishes so even the biggest meat eaters will enjoy the delicious ingredients served here.

    

   Cafes in Brighton

   1. That Little Tea Shop in the Lanes

   This tiny little cafe is set in one of Brighton’s most iconic areas, the Lanes. It is traditionally decorated with great tea, coffee, cake and pastries so you can enjoy a respite here whilst enjoying the eclectic hustle and bustle around you.

   2. The Blackbird Tea Room

   This vintage tea room serves all-day breakfasts and lunch as well as scones and cakes to enjoy with your cuppa. If you think the food is good, you’ll enjoy the tea as they only use quality blended tea leaves here.

   3. Ground Coffee

   This coffee shop in Kemptown has been in the business serving up speciality coffees for 11 years! Its small so perfect for a quick little pick me up before heading on your way…perhaps a pastry too!

    

   Shopping in Brighton

   Well you will be spoilt for choice when shopping in Brighton as there seems to be something for everyone and what’s more is that it is all compact into the same area so you can easily access the main shopping areas in one day (although you might need more than one day there are so many). Churchill Square shopping centre is home to favourite high street clothing brands such as H&M, Hollister, Boux Avenue, Next, Zara and more as well as phone shops and the Apple store. The Lanes, North Laine and London Road all offer independent, unique shops with many in Hove too. Some of our favourites include: Snoopers Paradise, Jump the Gun, Beyond Retro and Charlie’s Sweet Emporium to name a few. There are also a few more bespoke shops at Brighton Marina such as Wed2Be and Lovethatstuff Fair trade.

    

   What are the Best Hotels in Brighton

   1. The Grand, Brighton

   Right on the seafront is the Grand Hotel, Brighton. Officially opened in 1864 the Grand has been the place to stay in Brighton ever since. With its glorious sea views, Egyptian cotton bedding and splendour interior you’ll be sure to be sleeping in luxury here.

   2. Paskins Brighton

   This B&B in Kemptown is made up of two 19^th century townhouses and is a great place to stay for those of you who are looking for somewhere kooky to stay. It used serve vegetarian food only but caters for all now.

   3. Hotel du Vin & Bistro

   If you want a place to stay in the Lanes look no further! This hotel has a Parisian style bistro, bar and pub so you can enjoy all the sights and shops the Lanes has to offer and relax back at your hotel with a drink or two.

    

   Top 10 Things to do in Brighton

   1. Brighton Palace Pier
   2. Brighton Lanes
   3. Royal Pavillion
   4. British Airways i360
   5. Devils Dyke
   6. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
   7. Sea Life Centre Brighton
   8. Theatre Royal Brighton
   9. Brighton Marina
   10. Preston Park

    

   

    

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   Need a Locksmith in Brighton?

   When moving into a new home changing the locks is vital as you never know how many keys are out there and risk the keys falling into the wrong hands. Arrange for a Brighton Locksmith to come and fit a new lock the day you get your keys to provide you with peace of mind. We at Keytek^® Locksmiths Brighton provide a professional local mobile Locksmith service complying with British Standard and Home Insurance policies to ensure your home is as secure as can be! What’s more is all our customers benefit from a FREE home security check on site to ensure your home is as secure as can be!

   There are many other things you need to consider when moving home so check out our Moving Home Checklist to help you along the way! Once you’re in consider improving the security of your home further still by checking out our Ultimate Guide to Home Security here!

   View our Keytek^® Locksmiths Brighton page to find your local Locksmith today or call us on 01273 063428!