Situated in the Yorkshire and Humber region, Leeds stands as one of England's most vibrant and diverse cities, serving as a hub for culture and commerce. With a population of more than 812,000 according to a 2021 ONS Census, the city boasts a lively culture that has a thriving nightlife and a wide range of professional opportunities. Plus, Leeds accommodates various budget preferences when it comes to housing, making it a favoured destination for expat families.
With that said, it's advisable to choose an area that aligns with your family's specific needs. So, let's delve into a closer look at Leeds, the communities here, and the types and costs of accommodations you can choose from.
The best places to live in Leeds
Leeds has some of the coolest communities in England, and each offers a variety of accommodation, activities, and of course, costs. For expats, there's something for everyone - whether you're moving here alone or arriving with your family.
Here's a summary of the best places to live in Leeds for expats and their families.
Leeds Waterfront
Leeds Waterfront is in the city centre and offers an urban, attractive lifestyle as well as efficient transportation, diverse culture and a buzzing social scene. It's located next to the River Aire, and is recognisable thanks to its quirky converted, red brick buildings like the Dye Works and Engine House. Professionals tend to settle here.
Chapel Allerton
This area is a bustling suburb of Leeds and is one of the most popular places to live. It's a five-minute walk from the city centre. As a result, its proximity and wide range of bars, independent cafés, shops and delis make it a very attractive place to live. Every year the area hosts the Chapel Allerton Leeds Festival - an event filled with food stalls, live music and art workshops.
Horsforth
Young people wishing to escape the city centre like to move to Horsforth, and we don't blame them. It's a well-connected area where getting around is easy, nightlife is superb and there are several shops and parks for convenience's sake. Most residents here are young professionals and families. The area is known for the Hall Park, which is home to a cricket pitch, Japanese garden and skate park.
Roundhay
Roundhay has several attractions - the main one being Roundhay Park. So, if you want green spaces and urban areas, Roundhay is the place to be. There are several delis, shops and a good transportation network around the area. You'll find young professionals, couples and families here thanks to the community's proximity to major employers. In fact, Leeds City Council can be found here and is an important source of employment.
Alwoodley
One of the most affluent areas in Leeds is Alwoodley. Living in this area is expensive since the best schools in Leeds are located here. Commuters also find it to be the perfect place because it is close to the ring road.
Alwoodley is home to several fabulous sites, like Tudor House (characterised by the steeply pitched roof with a facade that's covered in brick and accented with half-timber framing) and other notable architectural buildings. If you are a golfer, this neighbourhood is known to have some of the best golf clubs in West Yorkshire. Most of its inhabitants are families and locals who are in their 30s.
Leeds Campus
Leeds is a university city, with many international students studying at one of the city's higher education institutions. Part of the Russell Group, the University of Leeds is one of the top universities in the country and Europe. Its campus is one of the largest in the UK. Students find it perfect for accommodation solutions as they can focus entirely on their student life while paying affordable rent prices. Still, the campus is very close to the city centre, allowing for weekend outings and party nights.
Headingley
Many consider Headingley as a student area, but many locals also enjoy staying here thanks to its shops, bars and cafés. Plus, with two train stations, commuting is easy. This area is especially popular with students and young commuters aged between 20 and 30. Headingley is also home to Headingley Stadium, which hosts world-class cricket and rugby events that are worth attending if you're a fan of either sport.
Other nice neighbourhoods in Leeds
Not so well-known, but there are some other locations that are worth considering in Leeds, as they are often more affordable and offer a good quality of life.
The Northern Quarter
The Northern Quarter is located in the city centre. It comprises several mills and factory buildings converted to apartments. It is also close to the regenerated market area and Victoria Gate. This neighbourhood is inhabited by people of various backgrounds and ages.
Oakwood
Oakwood is located between Harehills and Roundhay, with its identity lying between the two. Oakwood offers a top-quality urban lifestyle and access to several bars, cafes, etc. Living here is cheap; the cost is around 25% lower than in Roundhay. This neighbourhood is favoured by young people, couples and families. Oakwood's location is prime, with just a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute bus journey to the centre.
Rodley and Caverly
If you're looking for a peaceful and beautiful environment, Rodley and Caverly are the two canal-side areas to explore. Although far away from the city centre, it is close to Horsforth and comprises several bars, cafes and pubs and offers a village feel. It is particularly appreciated by young families and couples.
Holbeck
Holbeck is an upcoming area worth considering, where rent is still considered affordable. It comprises many residential buildings, like Granary Wharf. This neighbourhood mainly attracts creative minds, young professionals, and commuters in their mid-20s and early 30s. As part of its history, Holbeck hosts Britain's oldest social club.
Types of accommodation in Leeds
Leeds offers various types of accommodation options, but it is advisable to do your research thoroughly before moving here. Consider the different areas, your budget and the kind of accommodation that best suits your needs. From student halls, traditional houses and cottages to apartments - there's something for everyone.
As the country's second-largest job market by metropolitan district, there's high demand for accommodation throughout the year, and many new expats arrive annually to live and work in Leeds.
Rent prices generally vary according to the neighbourhood and type of accommodation. The 2025 housing market shows average property prices of £201,000 in Yorkshire and The Humber region, with first-time buyer average prices in Leeds at £238,000 as of June 2025.
The rental market has shown more stability in 2025, with moderate rent growth and rising supply offering a more positive outlook for both renters and landlords.
How to find accommodation in Leeds
Finding the right place to live in Leeds requires lots of research and preparation. The rental market can move quickly, so it's important to start your search early and be prepared to act fast when you find a property you like.
Popular property websites to keep an eye on, either for renting or buying in Leeds, include:
- Rightmove properties for rent in Leeds;
- OnTheMarket - Leeds guide;
- PrimeLocation in Leeds;
- Zoopla properties for rent in Leeds.
There are also reputable local estate agents that are worth connecting with:
- Leeds Rentals: Local specialist offering flexible viewing times, including evenings and weekends
- Linley and Simpson: Established Yorkshire property agents with extensive local knowledge
- Urban Splash Property Agency: Specialists in converted industrial properties and city centre living
Tips for finding accommodation in Leeds
There are a few things you can do ahead of and during your move to Leeds to help you find the right place for you and your family to live.
Start early - at least two to three months - before your intended move date, especially for September when rental competition is at its highest. Sign up for website alerts and notifications on all of the above websites. Joining local Facebook groups is a good idea, too. Doing both of these things will make sure you're alerted as soon as a property that matches your criteria becomes available.
Get your paperwork sorted. Have references, proof of income (or savings) and a deposit (which is typically five weeks rent upfront) ready to secure the property you'd like. Leeds' housing market is competitive, so you may need to move quickly.
If you're able to, go and view properties in person, but thankfully, these days, many estate agents offer a video call.
As for your budget, make sure you factor in additional costs like council tax, utilities, internet and potential agent fees when calculating how much money you'll need. For the council tax, your estate agent will be able to advise so you can check how much you'd be expected to pay before signing a contract.
Why live in Leeds
One of the most wonderful things about living in Leeds is that you don't have to leave the city to enjoy nature. Sure, the Yorkshire Dales National Park nearby offers a great escape on a good-weathered weekend, but in Leeds itself, you'll find one of the biggest city parks in Europe.
Roundhay Park is a vast area of parkland, lakes, woodland and seasonal gardens. There are also popular family spots, such as Temple Newsam (home to a Tudor-Jacobean house that's beautiful) and Lotherton Hall, a short drive away from each other.
Love sports? There's plenty of opportunity to enjoy tennis, golf and fishing around the city - and you can even indulge in birdwatching at RSPB's Fairburn Ings. Leeds and its residents are also fans of cricket, rugby and football. The Yorkshire County Cricket Club is among the best globally, Leeds Rhinos rugby team is one of the most successful in Super League history, and we can't forget Leeds United, the city's Premier League football team.
If you're into art and culture, the Henry Moore Institute is a centre for studying and enjoying sculpture. If you want to delve into the city's heritage, visiting the Leeds City Museum is a must. Here you'll find an in-depth introduction to your new home, and it's a superb day trip out with kids.
Working here is equally as attractive. The city continues to be a major economic powerhouse, with 513,000 jobs representing 1.7% of England's total employment and ranking as the second largest metropolitan district in England by total jobs. In fact, the city's digital tech sector is thriving, growing 125% faster than the national average.
Good to know:
Marks and Spencer, one of England's most iconic high street brands, started in Leeds Kirkgate Market in 1884.
Useful links:
Leeds City Council parks and countryside
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
