Home to over half a million citizens, Sheffield is a geographically diverse and vibrant city. The centre of the city is compact and easily navigable, while its suburbs are each unique and appealing in their own right. Situated at the confluence of five rivers and nestled between a range of hills, Sheffield is one of the greenest cities in Europe and an increasingly popular city to live in the UK.

While choosing the most suitable area depends on personal preferences and lifestyle demands, we created a list based on 3 factors:

Lack of Economic Deprivation Affordability based on Average House Prices Liveability

The following five areas stand out as the best areas to live in Sheffield:



1. St. Paul's - S1



As a result of a major re-development, one of the best parts of the city to live in at the moment is the part of the centre surrounding St. Paul’s Square. This area of the city is suitable for individuals with a wide range of needs and interests. Overall, however, it is chosen most frequently by people who crave a busier and livelier city atmosphere as well as those who prefer walking rather than taking public transportation. Residents around St. Paul's enjoy easy access to the city's largest market — the Moor Market — as well as being well-connected to the rest of the city. In addition, this area offers easy access to major sights like Sheffield Cathedral and the Peace Gardens, allowing for a culturally rich experience that is only a short walk away.

The area around St. Paul’s offers a wide range of dining options and vibrant pedestrian areas, allowing residents to gain a great sense of the city culture and all of its local specificities. This part of the city has something to offer for everyone — students, young professionals and families with children all enjoy the centrality and convenience of living close to Sheffield. An added bonus of St. Paul's is the proximity to Sheffield Station, providing residents with an easy train connection to cities like London and Manchester, as well as Manchester Airport. While other neighbourhoods on this list are also fantastic options, the general vibrancy and centrality of Sheffield's St. Paul’s square is unbeatable.

City Lofts St Pauls Apartments

Economic Deprivation Rank: 32,630 / 32,844 Among the 1% of least economically deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

Average House Price for 2016: £156,150



2. Fulwood - S10



Fulwood is a suburb located slightly over 3 miles to the west of the city centre. Its rich history as the preferred neighbourhood for 19th century steel magnates is responsible for the numerous 19th century listed buildings and large local parish church lining its streets. Fulwood is hugely popular with families and low-key professionals because of its beautiful greenery, proximity to the countryside and community focus. However, Fulwood is far from a sleepy suburb -- a range of pubs and bars in Ranmoor offer fantastic live music, pub food and local brews which make this a truly local neighbourhood. Another big advantage of living in this part of the city is its proximity to the Peak District National Park and the range of opportunities for hiking, cycling and even camping at a moment's notice. Quality of life in Fulwood is exceptionally high -- from superior schools to golf and tennis clubs, this part of the city is a mecca for residents who desire access to nature and spacious living while at the same time having easy access to central Sheffield.

Economic Deprivation Rank: 32,506 / 32,844 Among the 1% of least economically deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

Average House Price for 2016: £245,144



3. Dore - S17

Image Copyright: Adrian Richardson Blenheim Park Estates

Although rising real estate prices have made Dore a largely inaccessible part of the city for many Sheffield residents, it remains one of the city's most beautiful and historic suburbs. The village is located about 6 miles to the southwest of the city centre and was formally a part of Derbyshire until the early 1930s. According to early historic records, Dore was the place where in 829 King Ecgbert of Wessex became England's first king. It is now a picturesque village situated above the Sheaf river -- in spite of being 15 minutes away from central Sheffield, Dore has a truly quaint, small-town feel. It is the neighbourhood of choice for most elite residents -- from Olympic gold medalists to footballers and football managers. Just like Fulwood, Dore's inhabitants have access to vast countryside and green areas as well as a range of superb facilities for all ages and interests. At the same time, village residents have access to their own train station allowing them to easily reach the centre of Sheffield as well as other nearby cities.

Economic Deprivation Rank: 23,716 / 32,844 Among the 30% of least economically deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

Average House Price for 2016: £265,539



4. Ecclesall (Whirlow) - S11



In the past decade, Ecclesall has grown in popularity and become one of the most desirable places to live in Sheffield. Geographically nestled between Fulwood and Dore, this area offers many of the same advantages (e.g. proximity to countryside, community activities) as these two neighbourhoods. However, Ecclesall's growing student population, as well as its increasing popularity among young families and professionals, gives it a trendier and more cosmopolitan atmosphere. Ecclesall Road in particular offers a range of excellent eateries, bars and pubs, making the street a vibrant focal point for the Ecclesall community. In addition, the area is much loved for its support of local, independent stores which co-exist with bigger brands and national chains. Vintage shops, craft shops and independent boutiques make this part of the city a favourite among refined consumers and supporters of local brands. Nearby Endcliffe Park is also a fantastic plus for families, dog owners, runners as well as those in need of a green oasis close to their home.

Economic Deprivation Rank: 31,668 / 32,844 Among the 1% of least economically deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

Average House Price for 2016: £306,217



5. Crookes - S10



Crookes is another one of Sheffield's westernmost suburbs and one of the city's most vibrant areas to live. Situated on a hill and close to the University of Sheffield, Crookes boasts a web of leafy tree-lined streets and an elevated altitude. Its large student population means this suburb is chock-full of restaurants, bars and pubs and comparatively livelier than some of the other neighbourhoods on this list. Nevertheless, Crookes has succeeded in retaining its classy and charming ambiance -- its high street offers a range of convenience and organic stores, book shops as well as vintage boutiques combining chic and grungy. Crookes is a favourite among young professionals, singles and other residents who simply prefer living in an area that seems to burst with activity. In addition to being a short 20-minute walk away from Sheffield City Centre, Crookes is also a much loved area because of its proximity to Crookes Valley Park and the Botanical Gardens -- both popular for a range of weekend and afternoon activities.

Economic Deprivation Rank: 26,648 / 32,844 Among the 20% of least economically deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

Average House Price for 2016: £245,144

Economic deprivation statistics taken from: http://dclgapps.communities.gov.uk/imd/idmap.html

And now that you know what are the best areas to live in Sheffield, why don't you have a look at the Top 15 Free things to do in Sheffield?