What Is Living In Plymouth Like? A Guide To Plymouth
Last Updated: August 2024
Living in Plymouth
Britain’s ocean city, Plymouth, is one of the most vibrant cities in the UK. Along with great greenery and views that you won’t get enough of, there are many exciting activities you can do. The cultural and historical side of the city is a must visit. Plymouth isn’t the type of city you would go to as the only destination as it is surrounded by many other historical landmarks that you can visit from there. It also has the largest shopping centre in the south west after Bristol.
Is Plymouth a Good Place to Live?
Is Plymouth a nice place to live? Plymouth is a reasonably priced city to live in, with the average renting price often more than half the rent in London, and an average house cost stands at £223,546 in 2021. The average salary in Plymouth stands at £31.0K. Plymouth has a slightly higher economic activity than the national average, with Plymouth having an average rate of 79.6% compared to the 78.5% national average.
What is Plymouth famous for?
Plymouth is very popular for its fantastic location where you can explore it all by boat. The water links in Plymouth are everyone’s favourite activity, so they are a must-do when visiting the city.
Is Plymouth Safe As A Place to Live?
Plymouth is the 20th safest city in the UK, which has put Devon as one of the top 10 safest counties in the UK. However, crime happens anywhere, and Plymouth is considered the most dangerous compared to other cities, towns, and villages in Devon. The overall crime rate in Plymouth in 2021 was 73 crimes per 1,000 people.

Schools in Plymouth
There are plenty of options for Primary schools in Plymouth. Whiteleigh Community School and Pennycross Primary School have many students, are very popular and have an Ofsted rating of “good”. Elburton Primary School has an Ofsted rating of “outstanding”. As for secondary schools, Plymstock School has an Ofsted rating of “good”. Eggbuckland Community College has a “good” Ofsted rating.
City College Plymouth
Not only is City College Plymouth ranked as “outstanding” by Ofsted, but also offers modern facilities and equipment for its students to help them succeed and prepare them for university and further education.
University of Plymouth
Popular for its student life and facilities, the University of Plymouth is ranked in the top 25 UK Universities for teaching quality in 2021, not to mention being ranked the 1st globally in marine courses. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional development courses, as well as uniquely distinguishing itself with its special international students’ services and facilities.
Shopping in Plymouth
Drake Circus is an incredible experience for your shopping day, with top brands and many independent shops as well as facilities, including a cinema and different events. Armada Shopping Centre is another choice, from homewares to some fashion and gift stores. If you are looking for independent stores, the West End is a further choice.
Hotels in Plymouth
Jurys Inn – located in Exeter Street, which is the heart of Plymouth city centre, and around 10 minutes walking to the Plymouth train station. A modern restaurant and bar serve all types of lunch and dinner. Costa Coffee is also in the hotel to keep you enthusiastic.
Crowne Plaza Plymouth – a perfect choice for any travel purpose due to the view of the hotel being on the greenery coastline as well as being only 10 minutes walking to the city centre, the hotel has a fitness centre, pool, and sauna.
Future Inn Plymouth – the hotel is highly recommended if you are travelling with a car or for work purposes because of free parking service and large rooms with a work desk. It is also very close to the A38 and on the main road in Plymouth.
Top places to visit in Plymouth
- Saltram National Trust
- Theatre Royal Plymouth
- Plymbridge Woods
- Plymouth Sound
- Burgh Island
- National Marine Aquarium
- Royal William Yard
- Royal Citadel
- Devonport Park
- South West Coast Path National Trail
Top 10 places to eat in Plymouth:
- Tantuni
- Cosmic Kitchen
- Dunya Restaurant
- Cornwall Street Fish Bar
- Fletcher’s Restaurant
- HokyTonk Wine Library
- The Fig Tree @36
- AtKitchen
- Salumi Bar & Eatery
- 1620 Pub & Eatery
Where is the hospital in Plymouth?
The hospital in Plymouth is Derriford Hospital, located in Derriford Road, which is an NHS hospital that operates in the whole south west peninsula. It operates a 24 hours service department that provides any emergencies for its residents.
What is the closest airport to Plymouth?
The closest airport to Plymouth is Exeter International Airport (EXT), which is 47 miles away.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plymouth a Nice Place to Live?
Plymouth is a reasonably priced city to live in, with average rent often significantly lower than London. The average house price in 2021 was around £223,546. The average salary in Plymouth is approximately £31,000. The city also has a slightly higher economic activity rate than the national average, at 79.6% compared to 78.5%.
What is Plymouth Popular For?
Plymouth is well known for its coastal location and maritime activities. Many visitors and residents enjoy exploring the city by boat, with water-based activities being one of its most popular attractions.
Is Plymouth a Safe Place to Live?
Plymouth is ranked as the 20th safest city in the UK, contributing to Devon being considered one of the top 10 safest counties. However, like any city, crime does occur. Plymouth has an overall crime rate of approximately 73 crimes per 1,000 people (2021).
What is the Closest Airport to Plymouth?
The closest airport to Plymouth is Exeter International Airport (EXT), located around 47 miles away.