Living in Dundee: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Dundee.
Dundee, Scotland's fourth-largest city, sits on the northern bank of the River Tay along the east coast. With a population of approximately 148,000, this compact and walkable city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The opening of V&A Dundee in 2018 marked a new chapter for this UNESCO City of Design, attracting visitors from around the world while revitalizing the waterfront. Known historically as the city of "jute, jam, and journalism," Dundee has reinvented itself as a hub for life sciences, technology, and creative industries. The city benefits from being Scotland's sunniest, with a moderate maritime climate. Its central location offers easy access to Edinburgh (75 minutes by train), Glasgow, Aberdeen, and the stunning Scottish Highlands.
Five good reasons to move to Dundee
- Affordability – Housing costs are significantly lower than Edinburgh or Glasgow, with rents up to 70% less than London.
- Compact city living – Everything is within easy reach, making it ideal for walking or cycling.
- Cultural renaissance – V&A Dundee, RRS Discovery, and Dundee Contemporary Arts offer world-class cultural experiences.
- Strong education sector – Two respected universities and quality schools attract students and families.
- Natural beauty – From Broughty Ferry beach to the Angus Glens, stunning landscapes are on your doorstep.
Working in Dundee
Dundee's economy has diversified significantly from its industrial past. Today, the city is recognized for its thriving life sciences sector, digital technology industry, and healthcare services. The presence of two major universities has fostered a knowledge-based economy, with spin-off companies and research facilities creating skilled employment opportunities.
Key employment sectors
The largest employers in Dundee include NHS Tayside (operating Ninewells Hospital, one of Europe's largest teaching hospitals), the University of Dundee, and Dundee City Council. The city is also home to a growing tech sector, notably as the birthplace of the Grand Theft Auto video game series. The Dundee Waterfront regeneration project, valued at over £1 billion, continues to create construction and hospitality jobs.
Work permits and employment data
Non-UK citizens typically require a Skilled Worker visa to work in Scotland, sponsored by a licensed employer. The UK Government's Points-Based Immigration System applies throughout Scotland. The following table shows key employment indicators for Dundee City:
Unemployment rate | 4.8% (Scotland average: 3.8%) |
Average annual salary | £32,802 |
Top employment sectors | Health/social work (15.3%), Education (13.5%), Retail (13.4%) |
Sources: NOMIS Labour Market Profile, ONS Labour Market Statistics
Working in Dundee
Known as ‘the city of discovery' thanks to science activities that have greatly developed over the years, Dundee is the 4th biggest city in ...
Higher Education and Universities in Dundee
Dundee boasts one of the highest student-to-population ratios in Europe, with approximately one in seven residents being university students. This creates a youthful, dynamic atmosphere and supports a diverse international community. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with strong research credentials.
University of Dundee
The University of Dundee is consistently ranked among Scotland's top universities, with particular strengths in life sciences, medicine, art and design, and law. The university has approximately 17,000 students, with around 38% coming from outside the UK. International undergraduate tuition fees range from £19,200 to £22,950 per year for most programs, with medicine courses reaching up to £46,800. The university offers scholarships of up to £6,000 for eligible international students. Admissions are processed through UCAS for undergraduates, with a typical IELTS requirement of 6.0-6.5. More information is available at www.dundee.ac.uk.
Abertay University
Abertay University is renowned globally for its programs in video game design, computer arts, and cybersecurity. It was the first university in the world to offer a degree in computer games. With around 4,000 students, Abertay offers a more intimate learning environment. International student fees typically range from £15,500 to £17,000 per year. International students receive complimentary membership to the V&A Museum and campus gym. Visit www.abertay.ac.uk for details on programs and admissions.
Sources: University of Dundee, Abertay University
Schools and Education for Expat Families
Dundee offers quality education options for families, with 37 state primary schools and 8 state secondary schools managed by Dundee City Council. The Scottish education system differs from the rest of the UK, following the Curriculum for Excellence and leading to Scottish qualifications (Nationals, Highers, and Advanced Highers). School enrollment is based on catchment areas, and international families should contact the council's Education Department to register their children.
State schools
Top-performing secondary schools include Grove Academy, Harris Academy, and St John's RC High School. State education in Scotland is free for all residents, including children of visa holders. The school year runs from mid-August to late June. Popular residential areas for families seeking good schools include Broughty Ferry (served by Grove Academy) and the West End (served by Harris Academy). More information is available from Dundee City Council Education.
Private education
The High School of Dundee is the city's only independent school, offering education from nursery through to age 18. Founded in the 13th century, it provides a selective, coeducational day school following the Scottish examination system. Annual fees for 2025/26 (including VAT) are:
Junior Years (L1-L3) | £14,522 per year |
Junior Years (L6-L7) | £17,287 per year |
Senior Years (F1-F6) | £20,606 per year |
Bursaries covering 10-100% of fees are available based on financial need and academic merit. Visit www.highschoolofdundee.org.uk for more details.
Sources: Dundee City Council, High School of Dundee
Housing and Best Neighbourhoods for Expats
Dundee offers remarkably affordable housing compared to other Scottish cities, making it attractive for newcomers. The rental market is accessible, with average monthly rents in the Dundee and Angus area at approximately £822 as of 2025. Property prices have been rising steadily, with an average house price of £144,000 – well below the Scottish average of £192,000.
Popular neighbourhoods
The West End is particularly popular among professionals and students, featuring Victorian architecture, trendy cafés, and proximity to the University of Dundee and Ninewells Hospital. Broughty Ferry, known locally as "The Ferry," is a charming seaside suburb with beaches, boutique shops, and excellent schools – ideal for families. The City Centre offers modern apartments within walking distance of cultural attractions and amenities. Stobswell provides more affordable options while maintaining good transport links to the centre.
Rental costs
The table below shows typical monthly rents based on Numbeo 2025 data:
1-bedroom apartment (city centre) | £600–£900/month (avg. £728) |
1-bedroom apartment (outside centre) | £400–£650/month (avg. £548) |
3-bedroom apartment (city centre) | £900–£1,350/month (avg. £1,179) |
3-bedroom apartment (outside centre) | £750–£1,020/month (avg. £896) |
Rental agreements in Scotland typically use a Private Residential Tenancy, which offers strong tenant protections. Landlords must register with the local council, and a deposit (usually one month's rent) is held in a government-approved scheme.
Accommodation in Dundee
Located less than 60 km from Edinburgh, Dundee is the 4th biggest city in Scotland and the 2nd most densely populated. The City of Discoveries has a ...
Leisure, Culture and Things to Do
Dundee punches well above its weight when it comes to cultural attractions and leisure activities. The city's transformation into a UNESCO City of Design has brought world-class cultural institutions alongside traditional Scottish experiences.
Museums and cultural attractions
V&A Dundee is Scotland's first dedicated design museum, housed in a striking waterfront building designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Entry to the permanent galleries is free, with paid exhibitions typically costing £12-15. The RRS Discovery at Discovery Point allows visitors to explore the ship that took Captain Scott to Antarctica (£15 adult, £9 child). The McManus Art Gallery and Museum, housed in a Gothic Revival building, offers free entry to collections spanning art, archaeology, and local history. Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) features rotating exhibitions, independent cinema, and a popular café-bar.
Parks and outdoor activities
Dundee Law, a 174-metre extinct volcano, offers panoramic views across the city and River Tay – perfect for a morning hike. Camperdown Country Park spans 400 acres with a wildlife centre featuring otters, lemurs, and native Scottish species. Broughty Ferry Beach provides sandy shores and a historic castle to explore. Balgay Park is ideal for woodland walks and includes the Mills Observatory – Britain's first purpose-built public observatory.
Entertainment and nightlife
The Dundee Rep Theatre hosts Scotland's only permanent repertory ensemble, staging drama, dance, and music. The city's nightlife centres around the Perth Road area and the City Centre, with independent bars, live music venues, and student-friendly pubs. Annual events include the Dundee Design Festival and various Waterfront summer concerts.
Sources: V&A Dundee, Visit Dundee
Daily Life in Dundee
Daily life in Dundee is characterized by its compact, walkable layout and friendly community atmosphere. The city centre is easily navigable on foot, with most amenities within a 15-20 minute walk. The locals, known for their warmth and directness, make newcomers feel welcome quickly.
Public transport
Dundee's bus network is operated primarily by Xplore Dundee and Stagecoach East Scotland, connecting all neighbourhoods with frequent services. A single bus ticket costs around £2.90, while a monthly pass is approximately £43. The Dundee Railway Station, centrally located, offers ScotRail services to Edinburgh (1 hour 25 minutes), Glasgow (2 hours), and Aberdeen (1 hour 15 minutes). Ember runs electric coach services to major Scottish cities. Dundee Airport provides connections to London, Belfast, and the Shetland Islands. The city is also well-served by the A90 motorway for those with cars.
Lifestyle and culture
Dundee enjoys a relaxed pace of life compared to larger cities, while still offering urban conveniences. Shopping options include the Overgate Shopping Centre and the historic High Street. Supermarkets (Tesco, Asda, Lidl, Aldi) are widespread. The city's café culture thrives, particularly along Perth Road in the West End. Healthcare is provided free through the NHS Scotland system, with Ninewells Hospital offering comprehensive services. Registering with a local GP is essential upon arrival. Scotland has its own bank holidays, and shops typically close earlier on Sundays. The local dialect features some distinctive Scottish expressions, but English speakers will have no difficulty communicating.
Sources: Dundee City Council, Xplore Dundee
Cost of Living in Dundee
Dundee offers one of the most affordable living costs in Scotland, making it attractive for students, young professionals, and families. Living expenses are approximately 40% lower than Edinburgh and 70% lower than London when including rent. The following tables provide detailed monthly budget estimates based on 2025 data.
Monthly budget for a single person
Expense | City Centre | Outside Centre |
Rent (1-bedroom) | £728 | £548 |
Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | £172 | £172 |
Internet | £35 | £35 |
Groceries | £200 | £200 |
Transport (monthly pass) | £43 | £43 |
Mobile phone | £10 | £10 |
Leisure/dining | £150 | £150 |
Total | £1,338 | £1,158 |
Monthly budget for a family of four
Expense | City Centre | Outside Centre |
Rent (3-bedroom) | £1,179 | £896 |
Utilities | £220 | £220 |
Internet | £35 | £35 |
Groceries | £500 | £500 |
Transport | £86 | £86 |
Childcare/preschool (1 child) | £1,333 | £1,333 |
Leisure/activities | £250 | £250 |
Total | £3,603 | £3,320 |
Note: State school education is free. Healthcare is provided free through NHS Scotland for residents.
Sources: Numbeo 2025, Scottish Government
In short
Dundee offers an exceptional quality of life at an affordable price point. This compact, friendly city combines world-class cultural attractions like V&A Dundee with stunning natural surroundings and a thriving university community. Whether you're drawn by career opportunities in life sciences and technology, affordable family living near excellent schools, or the chance to study at respected universities, Dundee welcomes newcomers warmly. The city's ongoing waterfront regeneration signals an exciting future, while its rich heritage and community spirit keep it grounded. With Edinburgh just over an hour away and the Scottish Highlands on your doorstep, Dundee is perfectly positioned for exploring all that Scotland has to offer. Ready to take the next step? Connect with fellow expats and get insider advice on the Dundee forum on Expat.com.
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