Complete Guide to Working and Living in Southampton

Are you considering living in Southampton but want to learn more about the city before taking this huge step?

We have compiled this moving guide to help those who want to learn more about what makes it one of the most desirable cities in the UK.

Located on England’s beautiful southern coastline, Southhampton is the largest city in Hampshire meaning there is always something going on.

Southampton has and still does enjoy a strong connection to the sea, a feature that shapes much of the city’s lifestyle and identity.

Watching the giant cruise ships sail by from the dock or exploring the nearby coastline, the maritime atmosphere adds a unique touch to Southampton local’s everyday life.

The ocean is never far away; the sea is central to the city’s charm and appeal, from waterfront walks and sailing opportunities to fresh seafood dining, it really is part of everyday life here.

Historically known as a key industrial port, Southampton has evolved into a lively and modern urban centre over the centuries.

Today, it’s a bustling hub that attracts over 4 million visitors annually, many arriving via regular cruise ships that dock at the iconic port.

The city offers an impressive range of activities and attractions for those exploring Southampton for the first time.

There’s something for everyone to do, from high-end shopping and sports facilities to fascinating museums and historic sites, you are sure to find something that suits you.

Whether it’s the city’s cultural landmarks or enjoying its dynamic leisure opportunities, Southampton’s varied offerings ensure there’s always something new to discover.

Once an industrial powerhouse, Southampton has successfully transitioned into a city that blends its rich history with a thriving contemporary culture.

Few would argue that Southampton is an attractive destination for anyone seeking an equal balance between work and leisure.

Read on to find out just what makes this coastal city so great!

Working in Southampton

There are plenty of great job options available in Southampton.

Many come and settle in Southampton in search of employment, and its diverse economy makes it an excellent place to start developing your career.

The city is home to major employers like DP World, which manages the Port of Southampton, one of the busiest cargo hubs in the UK.

Healthcare professionals will find job opportunities at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider in the region.

Additionally, the city’s two universities, the University of Southampton and Solent University, offer numerous positions in academia, research, and administration – in fact, many students from the Universities love the city so much that they decide to move here full-time!

The city’s growing tech sector is also worth noting, with companies like IBM and Utilita Energy choosing Southampton as their base.

For flexible work options, co-working spaces such as SO Fourteen, which cater to freelancers and startups, are ideal places to do business, offering a lively and competitive environment to start your business from.

Excellent transportation links, including direct trains to London and proximity to the M3 and M27 motorways, ensure residents can commute to various locations and really add to Southampton’s robust job market.

Education in Southampton

Southampton is home to excellent education facilities at every level of a student’s learning journey.

The city offers a range of highly regarded schools for families relocating to Southampton.

King Edward VI School, one of the top independent schools in the area, provides excellent academic results.

State schools like Bitterne Park School and St. Anne’s Catholic Grammar School are highly rated and known for their academic rigour.

For higher education, Southampton is home to the University of Southampton, which ranks among the top universities globally for research output.

Alternatively, Solent University focuses on practical and creative courses, appealing to students interested in media, maritime studies, and business.

No matter if you’re seeking primary education or advanced degrees, Southampton provides excellent opportunities for learners of all ages.

Transportation in Southampton

These days, it is imperative to have access to good transport connections.

Luckily, this is another area where the city shines.

Southampton’s transport links make it incredibly well-connected.

The central train station offers direct services to London Waterloo, with journeys taking just over an hour.

For those commuting within the south, trains also connect to Portsmouth, Bournemouth, and beyond.

Southampton Airport provides easy access to European destinations, making it convenient for business and pleasure.

Within the city, bus services operated by First Bus and Bluestar reach most areas.

Their services make it easy for residents without a car to reach most locations in and around the city,

Cycling is another popular option, and there are plenty of bike lanes and scenic routes along the waterfront and through the city’s parks.

Shopping and Dining in Southampton

You will find there are some wonderful shopping and dining choices in the city.

Southampton is a great place to shop and eat, with plenty of options to suit every need.

Westquay Shopping Centre is the city’s main retail hub, home to major retailers like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Zara, and Apple.

For more unique finds, the historic Oxford Street, not to be confused with London’s shopping district, offer boutique shops and independent stores.

Nearby, you’ll also find Marlands Shopping Centre, another popular spot for high-street fashion and everyday essentials.

Southampton has a rich offering when it comes to dining; from popular restaurant chains to independent eateries, there’s something to suit every palate.

The Oxford Brasserie serves contemporary European cuisine, while the Pig in the Wall, a luxury boutique hotel, offers a unique dining experience set in the city’s medieval walls!

For a casual meal, Mettricks is a must-visit café by the waterfront.

It offers excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for reading or finishing some Uni work.

Checking restaurant ratings is an excellent way to ensure you will always get a good meal, check out the Opentable website for a list of the highest-rated restaurants in Southampton.

Entertainment and Attractions in Southampton

Be sure to explore all of the wonderful entertainment options available in Southampton. 

As a cultural and historical hotspot, Southampton offers plenty of things for residents and visitors to do.

It must be doing something right, as 4 million people visit the city annually!

The SeaCity Museum celebrates the city’s maritime heritage, particularly its connection to the RMS Titanic and is certainly worth checking out if you have any interest in the city’s connection to this famous vessel.

Art lovers will enjoy the Southampton City Art Gallery, home to over 5,000 pieces of art ranging from Renaissance classics to contemporary works.

For those who prefer the outdoors, Southampton Common, a large area of green space in the heart of the city, is perfect for picnics, jogging, or family days out – this is one of the nicest spots in the city during the warmer summer months.

The common also holds regular festivals and activities throughout the year so keep an eye out for any that might appeal to you.

The nearby New Forest National Park provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and exploring nature.

The New Forest is one of the most beautiful rural areas in the south of England and is sure to appeal.

If you do head there be sure to check out the free-roaming ponies that live in the forest!

Additionally, the city’s proximity to the coast means you’re never far from beaches, including those at Lepe Country Park, Calshot Beach and the beautiful Isle of Wight, which is surprisingly easy to reach on the 25-minute foot passenger ferry!

If you are still looking for the best things to do, head over to the Planetware website for a list of the 15 best attractions in Southampton.

Housing and Neighbourhoods in Southampton

Finding the best location to live is not a problem in Southampton.

The city covers an area of around 20 square miles and has some very distinct neighbourhoods catering to a range of preferences, meaning there is something to suit all regardless of your preferences or budget.

The city has many fantastic locations for those looking for a home outside of the main city centre.

Families may prefer suburban areas like Bassett or Bitterne, which are known for their spacious homes and proximity to good schools – these are truly excellent places to raise children!

Young professionals often gravitate towards the city centre, where modern apartments are within walking distance of the vibrant Westquay Shopping Centre and an array of dining and entertainment options.

Alternatively, those looking for a quieter lifestyle can consider the nearby New Forest National Park offers peaceful villages within commuting distance of the city – perfect for those who want easy access to Southampton’s amenities on their own terms!

Whether you’re looking for city-centre convenience or countryside charm, Southampton offers a range of housing options to suit your needs.

Finding Your Dream Home in Southampton

There are plenty of places to start when it comes to finding your dream home.

In recent years, the housing market in Southampton has seen steady growth, driven by its attractive location, strong job market, and continued investment in infrastructure.

New developments like waterfront properties have also drawn interest from buyers and investors alike.

The city’s property landscape includes a wide range of housing options.

Plus, housing prices are generally more affordable than those in nearby cities like Winchester and Bournemouth, making it an appealing choice for buyers seeking good value for money.

Young professionals and students drive demand in the city centre, primarily due to the proximity of the University of Southampton and Solent University.

Here, you’ll find a mix of modern apartments and refurbished older properties, often within walking distance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The average cost of a home in Southampton’s city centre is £212,990, with the below-average price tag making it an appealing option for many.

Looking for a more suburban feel?

Neighbourhoods like Bassett, Bitterne, Woolston and Shirley offer semi-detached houses, detached homes, and more significant family properties with more space and gardens.

Further out in the suburbs, the average cost of a property increases to £265,213.

If you don’t want to buy a home immediately, a range of rentals are available in and around the city.

However, rental demand remains high due to the city’s large student population, making it a favourable market for buy-to-let investors.

According to the ONS, the average cost to rent a home in Southampton is £1,155, although cheaper properties are available depending on your needs.

Overall, Southampton’s housing market offers a variety of options for different budgets and lifestyle preferences, with competitive pricing compared to other cities in the south of England.

Staying Healthy in Southampton

Southampton boasts some excellent healthcare provisions. 

While entertainment and amenities are essential, prioritising your health is equally important when settling into a new city.

In Southampton, you’ll find a wide range of doctors and dentists to meet all of your healthcare needs.

This means that no matter where you decide to live within the city, a medical centre will be conveniently located nearby.

It’s particularly important to register with a new GP as soon as possible if you require ongoing prescriptions.

This will ensure that you receive your medication without delays and helps to avoid any problems with that.

To streamline the process, make sure your medical records are transferred promptly.

This will help avoid any unnecessary or potentially harmful gaps in your healthcare.

The NHS Find a Doctor tool is helpful for quickly identifying the nearest GP surgery to your home.

Once you’ve selected a surgery, the next step is to arrange the transfer of your medical notes.

This straightforward process involves visiting or calling your new doctor to fill out a registration form, you can then let them handle the rest.

Typically, this is completed within a few days with a similar process applied when finding a dentist.

Southampton offers a variety of dental practices, but finding an NHS dentist can, unfortunately, sometimes be more challenging.

The best way to locate an NHS-registered dentist is to use the NHS Find a Dentist tool, which allows you to search for nearby surgeries accepting new patients.

Southampton General Hospital (UHS) is the main hospital in Southampton.

It is a major teaching hospital and one of the largest in southern England, offering a wide range of specialist medical services.

UHS is renowned for its expertise in cancer care, neurology, cardiac services, and trauma care, among other specialities.

It also serves as a research hub, working closely with the University of Southampton’s medical school.

Ready to Start Living in Southampton?

Now that you have more insights into what life in Southampton is like, are you ready to move there?

Relocating can be a significant undertaking, requiring careful planning and organisation.

It’s a big step and often takes you out of your comfort zone, so having the proper support is vital.

When planning your move to Southampton, your first step should be to hire a reliable removal company that operates in the area such as White & Company.

With over 150 years of experience serving the local community, we’ve helped thousands of people relocate to and from Southampton, the UK, Europe, and internationally.

Our expert team, modern fleet of vehicles, and extensive knowledge of the removal industry ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

After an in-person or virtual survey, we’ll provide you with a tailored, no-obligation quote to meet your individual needs and requirements.

For your added security, we are long-term members of the BAR— British Association of Removers.

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

Go ahead, give us a call today!

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.