Are you thinking about moving to Lancashire? Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of city life, the charm of rural market towns, or the fresh air of coastal living, Lancashire offers a wide variety of lifestyle options. With beautiful countryside, a deep-rooted history, and easy access to larger cities like Manchester and Liverpool, this North West county is a perfect balance between tranquillity and connectivity.
Are you thinking about moving to Lancashire? Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of city life, the charm of rural market towns, or the fresh air of coastal living, Lancashire offers a wide variety of lifestyle options. With beautiful countryside, a deep-rooted history, and easy access to larger cities like Manchester and Liverpool, this North West county is a perfect balance between tranquillity and connectivity.
Where Is Lancashire?
Lancashire is located in the North West of England. It shares its borders with Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and Yorkshire. The county stretches from the Irish Sea coast to the Forest of Bowland and the scenic Ribble Valley. Known for its natural beauty, including a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s ideal for nature lovers and commuters alike.
Life in Lancashire: A Northern Balance
Lancashire is much more than a spot on the map — it’s a lifestyle choice. The county features a mix of:
- Bustling towns like Preston, Blackburn, and Burnley
- Coastal gems such as Lytham and Morecambe
- Sleepy villages in lush countryside settings
- Cultural hubs like Lancaster, which has a thriving student population
This variety makes Lancashire appealing to a wide range of people including:
- Young professionals seeking affordable homes and city access
- Families looking for good schools and green space
- Retirees searching for peaceful surroundings
- Students and academics attending Lancaster University
What Kind of Lifestyle Are You After?
Your ideal spot in Lancashire will depend on your lifestyle goals. Here’s a breakdown based on different preferences:
City Living
If you’re looking for urban convenience, strong transport links, and access to shops and culture, consider:
Preston
The administrative heart of Lancashire, Preston offers great rail connections, shopping options, and an expanding employment market.
Lancaster
This historic city combines cobbled streets and Georgian buildings with modern cafes and a strong student population. It’s ideal for young professionals and families alike.
Coastal Towns
If you prefer sea views and a laid-back pace, coastal living may suit you best:
Lytham St Annes
An elegant seaside town, Lytham is known for its leafy streets, upscale shops, and family-friendly vibe.
Morecambe
Affordable and scenic, Morecambe has been attracting attention for its beautiful bay views and regeneration efforts.
Market Towns and Villages
Looking for countryside charm with local convenience? Market towns may be ideal:
Clitheroe
Located in the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe offers market town charm, top-rated schools, and access to some of the county’s best walks.
Longridge
Surrounded by countryside and close to Preston, Longridge offers peace and convenience.
Student and Academic Areas
If education is a top priority:
Lancaster
Home to Lancaster University, the city is vibrant, multicultural, and brimming with educational and cultural facilities.
Ormskirk
With Edge Hill University at its heart, Ormskirk is a small town with a strong sense of community and plenty of student accommodation.
Top Places to Live in Lancashire
Lancaster
Lancaster is a historic riverside city with a rich cultural offering. Home to one of the UK’s top universities and an impressive Georgian heritage, it’s suitable for students, families, and professionals. The rail network offers direct routes to Manchester and London.
Lytham St Annes
With a sophisticated coastal feel, Lytham is perfect for retirees and families. Its clean beaches, boutique shops, and green spaces make it one of the county’s most desirable spots.
Clitheroe
This market town is nestled in the Ribble Valley and surrounded by rolling hills. Clitheroe is perfect for those who want countryside access, excellent schools, and a strong community feel.
Longridge
Ideal for those who work in Preston but want a quieter lifestyle. Longridge has great local amenities and is just a short drive from the Forest of Bowland.
Freckleton
Close to the Fylde Coast, Freckleton is a quiet village with local shops, schools, and friendly residents. It offers a more relaxed lifestyle while still being close to city hubs.
Chorley
Chorley is a commuter-friendly town with excellent transport links, including direct trains to Manchester. It has good schools, parks, and shopping centres.
What to Consider Before Choosing
Before deciding where to move in Lancashire, consider these essential points:
Transport Links
If you’re commuting, ensure you have access to reliable road and rail networks, particularly if you need to travel to Manchester, Liverpool, or Preston.
School Catchment Areas
Check Ofsted reports for schools in the area if you’re moving with children.
Affordability
While areas like Lytham or Clitheroe may come at a premium, towns such as Burnley and Accrington offer more budget-friendly options.
Access to Green Space
If you value outdoor activities or have pets, consider villages near Ribble Valley or locations near national parks.
Social Preferences
Do you want a bustling nightlife or quiet countryside living? Your choice of town should reflect your social needs.
The Lancashire Advantage
Lancashire isn’t just a practical place to live — it’s full of character and charm. Some of its key advantages include:
- Lower cost of living compared to areas like Greater Manchester or the South East
- Welcoming communities with distinct local culture
- Rich history with sites like Lancaster Castle and the East Lancashire Railway
- Stunning natural landscapes including hills, coastlines, and forests
- Regular markets, food festivals, and music events throughout the year
Whether you enjoy Sunday walks in the Forest of Bowland or sunsets by Morecambe Bay, Lancashire offers a wide range of experiences that suit all lifestyles.
Make Your Move Easier with Zapperty
If you’re planning to relocate to Lancashire, Zapperty can make your transition smoother. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating entirely, we make it easy to sell your home fast without the usual stress.
With Zapperty’s cash house buyer service, you can:
- Receive a competitive cash offer
- Avoid agent fees, chains, and delays
- Sell your home on your terms
Whether you’re relocating for a job, retiring to the coast, or just need a fresh start, contact Zapperty today to get a free offer and start your move without hassle.
FAQs
Is Lancashire a good place to raise a family?
Yes, Lancashire offers excellent schools, safe communities, and lots of green space, making it ideal for families.
How expensive is it to live in Lancashire?
Living costs in Lancashire are generally lower than in nearby cities like Manchester or Liverpool. Areas like Burnley and Blackburn offer affordable housing, while Clitheroe and Lytham tend to be more premium.
Which towns in Lancashire are best for commuters?
Towns like Chorley, Preston, and Lancaster offer great transport links to major cities, making them suitable for commuters.
What is the property market like in Lancashire?
The market is varied. Coastal and countryside areas may have higher prices, but overall, Lancashire remains more affordable than much of the UK.
Is it easy to sell a house in Lancashire if I want to move quickly?
Yes, and with services like Zapperty’s fast house sales in Lancashire, you can avoid the usual delays that come with traditional estate agents.
For insights into potential expenses like conveyancing fees and taxes, read our blog on the costs of selling a house in the UK.
Can Zapperty help if I’m relocating for a job or personal reason?
Absolutely. If you’re relocating, we can buy your house quickly. Learn more in our guide to selling your house fast for relocation.
