Living in Portsmouth – A Handy Guide to Life on the South Coast

Ever thought about living in Portsmouth and making this historic city your home?

Situated on England’s southern coast, Portsmouth isn’t just a historic naval city—it’s a lively community that’s continually evolving.

The city offers an enticing blend of rich heritage, modern amenities, and a thriving cultural scene.

Whether you’re a young professional, furthering your studies, part of a family, or looking to enjoy retirement by the sea, Portsmouth has something unique to offer.

Moving to a new area isn’t always an easy decision, regardless of your reasons.

It’s well-known that moving house can be quite stressful and demands careful planning.

In this article, we aim to highlight the numerous benefits awaiting you if you decide to make Portsmouth your home.

So, let’s delve into what makes this south coast city so appealing.

A Look at Portsmouth’s Past

Understanding the history of an area is a good way to start your new life in any location.

Portsmouth, rich in history and founded by Jean de Gisors in 1180, has been an important naval port for centuries.

Its strategic position on England’s southern coast made it an essential base for the Royal Navy, especially during pivotal conflicts like the Spanish Armada and both World Wars.

This significant naval role, coupled with a growing population, led to its elevation from a town to a city in the early 20th century.

Officially granted city status in 1926, Portsmouth will have been a city for nearly 100 years as of 2024!

Rich Maritime Heritage Meets Modern Living

Portsmouth’s seaside location means it appeals to many.

Portsmouth’s storied past as a significant naval port is evident in its well-preserved historic sites.

The Historic Dockyard, home to the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, provides a window into the city’s illustrious maritime history.

But Portsmouth isn’t stuck in the past; the city seamlessly blends its heritage with contemporary living.

The Spinnaker Tower, soaring 170 meters above the harbour, symbolises this perfect marriage of old and new, offering panoramic views of the Solent and beyond.

These amazing attractions provide residents and visitors with a priceless real-time historical experience.

Overview of Portsmouth’s Housing Market

There are some wonderful deals to be found in Portsmouth’s housing market.

The local market offers a variety of housing options to suit different preferences and pockets.

Buyers can choose from spacious Victorian terraced houses in well-established neighbourhoods, sleek new-build apartments with contemporary amenities, and family-friendly homes in suburban areas with excellent schools.

As of November 2024, Portsmouth’s housing market continues to demonstrate robust growth and diversity, making it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers and renters.

Property values have seen a steady increase over the past year, reflecting the city’s strong demand and limited housing supply.

The average house price in Portsmouth is approximately £270,000, with waterfront properties and modern apartments commanding premium prices, particularly in areas like Gunwharf Quays and Southsea.

Additionally, the rental market remains vibrant, driven by young professionals and students attracted to the city’s educational institutions and thriving job market.

You can budget for an average rent of £1,044 in the Portsmouth area.

Sustainability is also a growing trend, with many new housing developments incorporating eco-friendly features and energy-efficient designs.

Government incentives for first-time buyers and investments in local infrastructure continue to support market stability.

Overall, Portsmouth’s housing market remains dynamic and resilient, offering excellent opportunities for both investment and comfortable living.

Thriving Economy and Job Opportunities in Portsmouth

There are some excellent job opportunities in this bustling city.

One major advantage is that Portsmouth’s economy is thriving, driven by industries like maritime services, aerospace, and digital technology.

Securing work in the city opens up a wealth of exciting opportunities for those new to the area.

Portsmouth’s prime coastal location makes it a hub for international trade and commerce.

Companies such as BAE Systems and Airbus have a strong presence here, offering ample employment prospects for professionals in engineering, technology, and manufacturing.

Additionally, the burgeoning startup scene is attracting entrepreneurs and innovators alike.

See for yourself how many job vacancies are available in and close to Portsmouth.

Education in Portsmouth

Education is a key factor for many and Portsmouth has you well covered.

Portsmouth is also a city of learning and innovation.

The University of Portsmouth is renowned for its research contributions and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

The university’s close ties with local industries provide students with invaluable work experience and networking opportunities.

For school leavers, the city’s location provides three significant colleges to choose from.

City of Portsmouth College, Fareham College and Havant & South Downs College.

Combined, these institutions offer programs to suit a variety of interests and career paths for young adults and adult learners too.

For families arriving with younger children, the city boasts a selection of excellent primary and secondary schools, both public and private, ensuring quality education at all levels.

Websites such as SchoolGuide and Snobe are invaluable sources of information when you are choosing schools in Portsmouth serving children under 12 years of age.

Cultural and Entertainment

There are plenty of amazing things to see and do in the city.

The cultural scene in Portsmouth is as diverse as it is lively.

The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the Portsmouth Festivities and Victorious Festival, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world.

Victorious Festival is one of the UK’s biggest metropolitan music festivals, held annually over the August bank holiday weekend on Southsea Common. The festival features an impressive lineup of internationally renowned artists, local bands, and family-friendly entertainment across multiple stages.

For arts culture and heritage, the Portsmouth Festivities is not to be missed. A ten-day annual event featuring a diverse program that includes music concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibitions, literary talks, and workshops.

While The Guildhall and New Theatre Royal offer a rich program of music, theatre, and comedy, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening all year round.

Whatever “floats your boat” with regard to entertainment, you will find it in Portsmouth.

Check out the Lonely Planet’s top-rated tourist attractions in Portsmouth for more inspiring ideas.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty in the Region

Be sure to make the most of the wonderful geography of Portsmouth.

For those who love the outdoors, Portsmouth doesn’t disappoint in this regard either.

The city’s coastal location provides endless opportunities for water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Southsea Beach is a favourite spot for locals and visitors to relax providing quick access to Clarence Park’s open-air fun fair and amusement arcades.

Southsea Common is a huge open space. Many of Portsmouth’s annual events are held here such as the Southsea Show and the Victorious Festival.

Boasting beautiful views of the seafront, it is a great spot to bring the family for a picnic or to use the children’s play area, beach volleyball courts, tennis, pitch and putt and skate park.

Nearby the South Downs National Park offers unrivalled scenic trails for hiking and cycling, the perfect antidote to today’s digital world!

Getting outside and having fun in Portsmouth is so easy!

The Portsmouth Shopping Experience

Portsmouth has several distinct shopping areas each with its own appeal.

Portsmouth offers a fantastic shopping experience, even for smaller budgets.

Fashionistas can delight in a rich selection at Gunwharf Quays, a vibrant waterfront outlet centre featuring over 90 stores offering discounts of up to 60% off recommended retail prices.

Home to renowned brands like Nike, Michael Kors, and Ted Baker make it a shopper’s paradise.

For unique finds, Southsea’s vintage shops along Albert Road and Castle Road are the go-to destinations.

Here, you’ll discover independent boutiques, antique stores, and artisan shops offering eclectic items you won’t find elsewhere.

More details can be found at https://southsea.co.uk/.

The city centre’s pedestrian-friendly streets boast the Cascades Shopping Centre.

The centre houses over 60 familiar high street names like Primark, TK Maxx and H&M in a comfortable indoor setting ideal for all-weather shopping.

Portsmouth’s shopping scene is indeed diverse and exciting, catering to all tastes and preferences, from luxury outlets and high-street favourites to independent boutiques and vintage treasures.

Portsmouth Dining Scene

Enjoy some of the wonderful food on offer in the city.

The city’s dining scene is equally impressive, offering a wide array of restaurants, cafés, and pubs—from upscale establishments with stunning harbour views to local pubs serving traditional fare.

The historic waterfront area around Gunwharf Quays boasts numerous eateries with breathtaking sea vistas, including The Old Custom House, The Grill, and The Alchemist.

In Southsea, you’ll find a culinary hotspot of independent cafés, vegan eateries, and diverse restaurants like Sakura for Japanese cuisine and Becketts for modern British dishes.

The city centre also offers popular chains and cosy bistros along pedestrian-friendly streets.

Thanks to its coastal location, fresh seafood features prominently on many local menus.

Dining out in Portsmouth is both a delightful and authentic experience that reflects its rich cultural tapestry.

Excellent Transport Links

Locals have access to some great transport links.

One of Portsmouth’s standout features is its superb connectivity, offering excellent links both nationally and internationally.

The city’s strong transport infrastructure ensures that London is within easy reach, with regular South Western Railway services whisking you to London Waterloo in as little as 90 minutes.

By car, the A3(M) motorway provides a direct route to the capital, while the M27 connects Portsmouth to other key destinations along the south coast.

Adding to its appeal as a travel hub, Portsmouth International Port offers ferry services not only to the nearby Isle of Wight but also to continental Europe.

Destinations include Caen, Cherbourg, and Le Havre in France, as well as Bilbao in Spain, making it an ideal base for both domestic and international adventures.

Within the city, a well-developed public transport system—featuring efficient bus networks operated by First Bus and Stagecoach—makes commuting straightforward and hassle-free.

The city’s compact design and investment in cycling infrastructure also promote easy navigation on foot or by bike.

Moreover, proximity to airports like Southampton Airport, just 20 miles away, and London Gatwick Airport expands options for air travel.

Whether by rail, road, sea, or air, Portsmouth’s excellent connectivity greatly enhances its attractiveness as a place to live, work, and explore.

Affordable Living with a High Quality of Life

Affordability is an essential consideration when moving to any area.

Now that you have a better understanding of Portsmouth, you might be wondering about the cost of living in the city.

Remarkably, Portsmouth remains an affordable place to live despite its wealth of amenities and attractions.

Everyday costs such as groceries, dining out, transportation, and utilities are generally lower, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without financial pressure.

Moreover, the city offers excellent value for money when it comes to entertainment, education, and healthcare services.

This affordability allows residents to experience a high quality of life and access top-tier amenities, recreational activities, and cultural events.

Portsmouth strikes an appealing balance between affordability and lifestyle, making it an ideal place to reside without stretching your budget.

Find out more about what you can expect from the cost of living in Portsmouth via the Numbeo website.

Healthcare Provision in Portsmouth

Residents have some great local healthcare provisions.

Knowing where to go to get medical assistance is important when you first arrive in a new location.

Portsmouth offers comprehensive healthcare services, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality medical care and support.

The city is served by several reputable hospitals, the most prominent being Queen Alexandra Hospital (known locally as the QA).

This major acute hospital provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialised surgeries, and maternity services.

Additionally, St. Mary’s Hospital caters to both acute and community health needs, offering outpatient clinics and diagnostic services.

Portsmouth boasts an extensive network of General Practitioners (GPs) and community health centres, ensuring that primary care is easily accessible.

The Portsmouth City Council Health and Wellbeing Services provide mental health support, dental care, and public health initiatives aimed at promoting overall wellness.

For those seeking private healthcare options, several private clinics and specialist providers offer services from routine check-ups to advanced medical treatments.

The city’s commitment to healthcare excellence is further demonstrated by ongoing investments in medical facilities and workforce development, ensuring that both residents and newcomers receive top-notch care.

Whether you require routine medical services or specialised treatment, Portsmouth’s healthcare infrastructure is well-equipped to meet diverse health needs, fostering a healthy and thriving community.

Ready to Make Portsmouth your Home?

White & Company are the top choice for removals to or from Portsmouth.

If you’re considering a move, Portsmouth’s doors are wide open, inviting you to become part of its exciting future.

There is so much to discover when you live in Portsmouth, but you have to jump through a few hoops before you can call it home.

One of those hoops is the transportation of your personal belongings.

Moving house is hard work and best left to the professionals, particularly so if it is a whole house move.

At White & Company, we pride ourselves on just that, a professional removal service at good rates and a no-fuss approach.

For your added peace of mind, we are long-standing members of the British Association of Removers (BAR).

To maintain our membership, we adhere to strict rules and regulations that ensure we provide the very best service in the removals industry.

There are several ways to contact us, by phone, via our website chatbot or by completing a quotation form.

We can then arrange a no-obligation survey either in person or via our online video service whichever suits you best.

Give us a call today and begin your journey to Portsmouth!

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.