Living in Bournemouth – A Guide to Life & Work in Dorset

Are you thinking about living in Bournemouth?

Whether you’re planning a permanent move or just weighing your options, Bournemouth is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after towns along the south coast.

Repeatedly voted the UK’s best seaside town, Bournemouth combines stunning beaches, fantastic weather, excellent schools, and plenty of leisure activities.

With over 7 hours of sunshine daily in the summer months—far above the UK average—living in Bournemouth has serious appeal.

This guide explores everything you need to know, from the best neighbourhoods and housing costs to local schools, employment opportunities, and top tips to make the most of your new life here.

1. Why Consider Living in Bournemouth?

There are plenty of reasons to consider living in Bournemouth.

Bournemouth isn’t just another coastal town—it’s repeatedly recognised as one of the UK’s happiest and healthiest places to live.

In 2024, the town ranked among the top locations for health and well-being nationwide, reflecting its excellent quality of life.

The sandy beaches, scenic walks along the cliffs, and vibrant town centre create a lifestyle that’s truly unmatched elsewhere.

2. House Prices in Bournemouth

There are properties available at all price points.

If you’re considering buying property, Bournemouth offers good value compared to other southern cities like London or Brighton.

As of early 2025, the average property price in Bournemouth is around £351,607, according to Rightmove.

To put that into perspective, London’s average currently stands at a staggering £685,847—making Bournemouth’s property market very attractive indeed.

Here’s a quick breakdown of property prices by type:

• Detached homes: £509,309
• Semi-detached: £343,387
• Flats: £231,809

Popular neighbourhoods like Westbourne, Southbourne, and Alum Chine usually attract slightly higher prices, thanks to their excellent amenities and proximity to the sea.

3. Renting a Property in Bournemouth

Renting a property could be a good choice for many.

Renting first can be a great way to familiarise yourself with Bournemouth before committing long-term.

The average monthly rental cost here is around £1,625—a fraction of London’s astronomical £2,235 average.

Currently, you can expect to pay:

• 1-bedroom flat: Around £941 per month
• 4-bedroom house: Around £2,144 per month

Keep an eye on listings from sites like Home.co.uk to spot new rentals quickly, as the local rental market moves fast.

4. Cost of Living in Bournemouth

Check out these cost of living expenses.

Like most desirable UK towns, Bournemouth’s cost of living is slightly above the national average—but significantly lower than the capital.

Shopping at Aldi, Lidl, or local markets can help stretch your budget.

Here’s what typical grocery costs look like according to Numbeo:

• Milk (1 litre): £1.04
• Bread (500g): £0.92
• Eggs (12): £2.49
• Chicken fillets (1kg): £5.14
• Bottle of wine (mid-range): £6.75

Travel within the town is affordable.

A monthly public transport pass costs around £63.50, significantly cheaper than the £150 you’d spend in London.

5. Best Neighbourhoods When Living in Bournemouth

There are some excellent locations to consider calling home.

One of Bournemouth’s greatest strengths is the variety of its neighbourhoods.

Westbourne is popular for its independent shops and charming Victorian architecture.

Southbourne appeals to families, with its laid-back atmosphere and excellent schools.

Boscombe offers affordable properties and a trendy, artistic vibe.

Each area has its unique charm, so exploring them personally is highly recommended.

6. Schools & Education in Bournemouth

Families will find plenty of great schools in the area.

For families, education is often a top priority, and Bournemouth excels here.

The town offers 85 primary schools, including top-rated ones such as Manorside Academy, Jewell Academy, and Pokesdown Community Primary School—all rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted.

Bournemouth also hosts 39 secondary schools, including Bournemouth School for Girls, Bournemouth School, and Glenmoor Academy, each of which achieves Ofsted’s highest rating.

The town caters well to post-16 education too, with 31 sixth-form colleges and further education centres available.

7. Employment Opportunities in Bournemouth

There a jobs available in a range of sectors.

Bournemouth’s economy thrives on tourism, financial services, education, and increasingly, the digital and creative sectors.

The presence of two thriving universities—Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth—also significantly boosts local employment.

Unemployment rates are consistently below national averages, highlighting the town’s strong local economy.

Growing sectors include tech start-ups, digital media, and fintech, making Bournemouth increasingly appealing to younger professionals.

8. Transport Links from Bournemouth

Good transport links make getting around a breeze.

Excellent transport connections are another advantage of living in Bournemouth.

Commuters can reach London Waterloo in approximately 97 minutes by train, ideal for hybrid workers.

Road links via the A338 and A35 ensure easy access to neighbouring Poole, Southampton, and the stunning Dorset countryside.

Bournemouth Airport offers regular flights across the UK and Europe, while ferry links from nearby Poole open up trips to Jersey, Guernsey, and France.

9. Shopping & Amenities

There are plenty of shops in Bournemouth.

Bournemouth town centre is well-stocked with high-street favourites and boutique shops, particularly around The Avenue, Dalkeith Arcade, and the bustling town centre precinct.

For a calmer shopping experience, Castlepoint Shopping Centre offers easy parking and over 40 popular retailers.

Neighbouring Poole’s Dolphin Shopping Centre is another local favourite, providing even more choice just a short drive away.

10. Things to Do in Bournemouth

There’s never a dull moment with so many great things to do.

With seven miles of beautiful beaches, outdoor lovers will never tire of Bournemouth’s scenery.

Families love attractions like Monkey World, Paultons Park (home of Peppa Pig World), and the heritage Swanage Railway.

If you enjoy history, museums, or the arts, Bournemouth has plenty to offer, including the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum and regular events at the Bournemouth International Centre.

11. Pros and Cons of Living in Bournemouth

It’s worth weighing up the positives and potential negatives:

Pros:

• Excellent beaches and outdoor spaces
• Strong schools and educational opportunities
• Vibrant local economy and job market
• Lower living costs than London

Cons:

• Tourist influx in summer can be busy
• Slightly higher property costs compared to other towns in Dorset

Overall, however, most locals find the positives far outweigh any downsides.

Ready to Move to Bournemouth?

Choosing to live in Bournemouth could be one of the best decisions you make this year.

Its mix of vibrant community, beachside living, great education, and promising employment opportunities makes it a fantastic choice for individuals and families alike.

At White & Company, we’re here to help you move smoothly.

We offer professional Bournemouth removal services, ensuring your relocation is straightforward and stress-free.

We even offer video surveys, so you can plan your move from the comfort of your own home.

To start your move or for any questions, contact our friendly team today.

Simply fill out our quick quote form, and we’ll have you enjoying Bournemouth’s brilliant lifestyle in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Bournemouth

Is Bournemouth expensive to live in?

While Bournemouth is pricier than some northern towns, it’s significantly cheaper than London or Brighton.

With careful budgeting, it’s entirely affordable and offers excellent value considering its lifestyle benefits.

Is Bournemouth safe?

Generally, Bournemouth has low crime rates compared to similarly-sized towns and cities in the UK, making it a safe environment for families and individuals.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.