In 2023, an estimated 860,000 residents from London are relocating to various parts of the UK, with Glasgow emerging as a popular destination. The allure of Glasgow is attributed to its significantly lower cost of living, a thriving arts scene, and a vibrant cultural calendar, complemented by its proximity to green spaces and nature.

The city is attracting young creatives and families looking for affordable housing options. According to the property franchise Martin & Co, the average property price in Glasgow stands at just below £200,000, presenting a compelling case for first-time buyers and young renters from London seeking to enter the property market. The Glasgow Times also notes that online lifestyle magazine Ideal recently highlighted the city as a refuge for those escaping the hustle and bustle of London, emphasising Glasgow’s appeal to creative professionals and music enthusiasts looking for lively outings without the high price tag typical of the capital.

A marked increase in interest from London-based individuals is indicated by data from online estate agent Purplebricks, which reported over 75,000 searches for homes in Glasgow, nearly twice the level of interest seen in London during the first quarter of 2024. Further statistics from luxury estate agents Hamptons show that 2.3% of potential buyers in Glasgow registered from London — a rise from 1.6% in 2020. This shift comes as property prices in Glasgow remain about 65% cheaper than those in London, with the average price in Glasgow reported to be approximately £179,440, in stark contrast to London’s £516,710.

Gallus Sales & Lettings, a Glasgow-based property agency, has also noted this trend, reporting an influx of creatives and professionals from London, particularly to the West End and South Side of the city. Andy Little, Director of Gallus Sales & Lettings, explained that many newcomers are drawn to the city for its “cost of living, rental prices, and business/work opportunities,” emphasising that Glasgow is a “very liveable city.” Tenements, especially those situated near green spaces like Kelvingrove Park and the Glasgow Botanical Gardens, have been found particularly appealing to new residents from London.

The consistent interest in high-end properties is illustrated by property firm Savills, which indicated that sales of million-pound properties in Glasgow’s Dowanhill and Park District remained stable in 2024, despite challenges related to top-end property availability in the region. Savills’ Head of Residential Sales for Scotland, Cameron Ewer, noted that the newly imposed 20% VAT on private school fees in England could further influence London residents to consider relocating north, allowing them to invest more in property while managing educational costs.

Artist Tinsel Edwards, who moved to Glasgow from London in 2017, expressed her satisfaction with the transition, stating, “I love living here in Glasgow and feel very settled now.” Edwards elaborated on the quality of life improvements she has experienced, highlighting the slower pace and the abundance of outdoor spaces that has enhanced her family’s well-being. She shared that the move has alleviated financial pressures, allowing her family to transition from a cramped rental flat in London to a more spacious living arrangement in Glasgow.

Despite the positive changes, Edwards acknowledged challenges associated with establishing herself within the local artistic community, noting the need to rebuild her network after leaving behind her London connections. She described the initial difficulty of navigating the artistic landscape in Glasgow but recognised the city’s welcoming environment and the friendships she has formed with fellow creatives who have made similar journeys.

Looking ahead, Edwards anticipates further migration from London to Glasgow, attributing this trend to the rising costs of living in the capital. She cautioned, however, that Glasgow is experiencing similar issues, including increasing rents and property prices that could lead to gentrification in certain areas.

She also identified areas for improvement within the city, advocating for a more integrated transport system, better incentives for local artists and businesses, and greater access to major art exhibitions that could invigorate Glasgow’s cultural scene even further.

Source: Noah Wire Services