Exeter: Everything You Need to Know Before Moving There

Ed Kowalski
Sep 24
13 min read

Exeter is a historic and vibrant city in Devon, England, nestled between rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Located about 36 miles northeast of Plymouth and 65 miles southwest of Bristol, it offers a balanced lifestyle with both urban amenities and easy access to nature. Exeter’s roots go back to Roman times and this heritage shows in its architecture, including a famous Gothic cathedral. Today, it is known for friendly communities, a top-tier university, and a bustling city centre. Whether you’re a student, a family, or anyone relocating, this guide will walk you through what makes Exeter special and what to consider when moving here.

Exeter’s city centre is lively but not overwhelming, with a mix of quaint streets, modern shops, and riverside quays. The River Exe and nearby Dartmoor National Park provide beautiful outdoor escapes, from river walks to rugged moorland. The city also hosts cultural events, markets, and festivals throughout the year. Many residents highlight Exeter as a safe, welcoming place; in fact it has been recognized as one of the friendliest UK cities. Overall, living in Exeter means enjoying a relaxed pace of life with plenty of opportunities for work, education, and leisure.

Why Choose Exeter

People move to Exeter for a variety of reasons. The city combines urban convenience with rural charm. You can visit a modern shopping centre or catch a play at the theatre, and within a short drive or train ride you can be on a sandy Devon beach or hiking in Dartmoor. Exeter has a strong economy with jobs in education (the University of Exeter and Exeter University), healthcare (Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital), tech, and retail. The cost of living is moderate by UK standards – typically more affordable than London – making it attractive for first-time buyers or renters. Residents also enjoy good schools, parks, and a high quality of life. In short, Exeter offers opportunity and comfort in equal measure.

When planning a move, consider the local climate and culture as well. Exeter has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, though rainfall is common year-round. It also has an international community thanks to the university and local industries, so newcomers can find clubs and events that fit many tastes.

Cost of Living and Housing in Exeter

One of Exeter’s appeals is its reasonable cost of living. Housing costs are generally lower than in bigger cities. As a rough guide, average house prices in Exeter are around £250,000 to £300,000 (lower than London and many southern cities). Renting is also relatively affordable: a one-bedroom flat in the city centre might cost around £800–£1000 per month, while outside the centre it can be cheaper. Utility bills, groceries, and transportation costs are all moderate as well. For example, consumer prices in Exeter are often noted to be about 20% lower than in London.

That said, prices vary by neighborhood. Central areas like the Quayside and St Leonard’s can be pricier due to popularity and convenience. In contrast, suburbs such as Alphington or areas farther out tend to have cheaper rents and larger homes. It’s wise to set a budget early and explore different areas to find a balance between cost, commute, and lifestyle.

Important tip: Don’t forget additional expenses when budgeting. UK residents pay a council tax (similar to a local property tax) based on house value. You’ll also need to set up utilities (water, gas, electricity, internet) in your new home. Some services may require a deposit or credit check, so plan these costs into your moving budget.

Transportation and Connectivity

Exeter is well connected by road, rail, and air:

Roads: The M5 motorway runs just outside Exeter (at Junction 29), providing a direct route north towards Bristol and the Midlands, and south towards Plymouth and Cornwall. Major A-roads like the A30 and A38 also link the city to the broader region. Driving is a convenient way to reach nearby countryside or coastal areas on weekends.
Rail: Exeter has two main train stations. Exeter St Davids is the larger station on the main line between London and Cornwall, and it also serves routes to the Midlands and Scotland. Exeter Central is closer to the city centre and handles local and regional trains. High-speed trains can take you to London Paddington in about 2.5 hours, making Exeter accessible for occasional business or leisure trips. There are also frequent trains to cities like Bristol, Bath, and Plymouth.
Bus: Local buses run by Stagecoach South West cover Exeter and surrounding towns. The city has an efficient Park & Ride system: several large parking areas on the outskirts (e.g. at Matford, Sowton, Marsh Barton) where you can leave your car and take a fast bus into the centre. This is useful if you plan to drive into town on busy days. Inside the city, smaller bus services connect neighborhoods with the shopping districts, hospital, and university campuses.
Air: Exeter Airport is located a few miles east of the city (in the village of Clyst Honiton). It offers flights to UK destinations (London, Edinburgh, etc.) and some European cities, especially in summer. It’s smaller than major airports but very convenient for quick trips. For more international flights, Bristol Airport (about 1 hour away) or Heathrow (about 3 hours by train/car) are common options.
Cycling: Exeter is often rated a cycling-friendly city. There are bike lanes on many roads and scenic cycling routes along the river and through parks. If you enjoy cycling or want to reduce transport costs, Exeter’s relatively compact centre makes it easy to bike to work or run errands. Many students and locals do this regularly. The university even has cycle schemes and there are community bike shops.

Overall, getting around Exeter and beyond is straightforward. Whether you prefer public transit or driving, the city’s infrastructure supports commuting and travel. Many residents find they can live without a car thanks to the train and bus services, but a car can be handy for exploring the countryside and nearby towns.

Exploring Exeter’s Neighborhoods

One of the first questions for a newcomer is where to live. Exeter offers a range of neighborhoods and suburbs, each with its own character. Below are some of the most notable areas to consider:

St Leonard’s

St Leonard’s is a highly sought-after area northwest of the city centre. It has a village-like feel with leafy streets and charming shops. The homes here are often Victorian or Edwardian terraced houses and period family homes. This area is popular with families and professionals because it combines quiet residential streets with easy access to the city. There’s a small high street with cafes, pubs, and a market on St David’s Hill.

What to know if moving here: St Leonard’s is convenient for city amenities – it’s only a short bus ride or cycle to the centre. However, houses here can be more expensive due to the strong community vibe. Parking can sometimes be tight on the narrow streets. If you want a friendly neighborhood close to the heart of Exeter, St Leonard’s is a great choice.

Topsham

Topsham is technically a neighbouring town east of Exeter, but many people consider it part of the wider Exeter area. It’s an old port town on the Exe estuary known for its historic charm and riverside views. Topsham has cute cobbled streets, antique shops, and independent cafes. The housing is a mix of old fishermen’s cottages and pretty townhouses; it feels distinct from central Exeter.

What to know if moving here: While Topsham offers a village atmosphere, it’s a bit farther from the city centre (about 4 miles) – many residents commute by train (Topsham has its own small station) or bus. It’s ideal if you want a scenic, quieter lifestyle with the river nearby. Note that as a popular area, housing there can sometimes be pricier and more limited, so start searching early if interested.

Exeter Quayside and City Centre

The Quay area and the city centre are vibrant and full of activity. The Quayside by the River Exe has been transformed into a cultural hub with bars, restaurants, and watersport activities. Many old industrial buildings have been converted into trendy flats and lofts. If you live here, you’ll have scenic walks by the water and a lively nightlife right on your doorstep.

Similarly, Exeter’s city centre (around High Street, Cathedral Close, and Gandy Street) puts shops, markets, and restaurants at arm’s length. There’s always something happening – local markets, festivals, and events. Housing ranges from modern apartments to period homes; it’s more urban but quite walkable.

What to know if moving here: Living downtown means everything is close, but it also means you might hear music or noise late at night. Parking is limited, though the city centre has multi-storey car parks. For singles or young couples who love being in the mix, the city centre can be very exciting. Families might prefer somewhere quieter, but some do enjoy the convenience.

Pennsylvania and St James (University Area)

East of the centre lie the neighborhoods of Pennsylvania and St James. These areas surround the main campus of the University of Exeter. Pennsylvania, in particular, is known for red-brick terraces and large student houses, while St James includes parts of the city close to the university.

What to know if moving here: If you are a student or young professional, this area might suit you well. It’s lively and there are lots of shops, cafés, and student hangouts (for instance, the popular Imperial pub is in Pennsylvania). The Downs (large grassland park) and nearby green spaces are perfect for outdoor relaxation. However, note that during term time some streets can get busy with student life. Rental prices here can be slightly lower due to the large student population.

Heavitree and Whipton

Heavitree lies just east of the city centre, along the main road (Fore Street and Heavitree Road). It’s a well-established suburb with a strong community feel. The architecture is mainly red-brick terraced houses and some semi-detached homes. There are shops, bakeries, and pubs on Heavitree Road. Heavitree is often praised for its friendly vibe and convenience – a bus ride takes you to the centre in a few minutes.

Neighboring Whipton (north of Heavitree) is a bit more modern, with some newer housing estates and supermarkets.

What to know if moving here: Both areas are popular with families and commuters. Heavitree has parks (like Heavitree Pleasure Ground) where kids play. It’s generally a middle-of-the-road area: not as quiet as distant suburbs, but not as hectic as the centre. Rental and house prices in Heavitree/Whipton are typically reasonable, making it good for people on a budget or those who don’t mind being slightly off-centre.

Alphington and Exwick

South of the city centre lie Alphington (by the Exe River) and Exwick (close to the University). These started as separate villages that have blended into suburban Exeter.

Alphington: A very pleasant residential area with leafy streets and river views. Homes are mostly 20th-century detached or semi-detached houses. Alphington has a village green and a handful of shops and pubs, giving it a quaint feel. It’s a popular choice for families looking for calm and green surroundings.
Exwick: Northwest of Alphington, Exwick is known for Exwick Nature Reserve and the Industrial estate (Marsh Barton). The residential parts have a mix of housing. It’s perhaps more ordinary and slightly more affordable than Alphington.

What to know if moving here: Alphington and Exwick are quiet and near good schools. They’re also near the M5 motorway, which is convenient for drivers. If you work in the Marsh Barton industrial area or study at the nearby St Luke’s Campus, these areas are a short commute. Expect a more suburban lifestyle, with car travel likely, as shops are fewer.

Other Areas

There are several other neighborhoods worth mentioning:

St Thomas: South of the river, just over Exe Bridge, St Thomas offers affordable housing and good transport (including a train station!). It is close to the city centre but has its own shops and parks.
Wonford & Polsloe: East of Heavitree, known for some council housing and student flats. More affordable, and not far from the RD&E hospital.
Countryside suburbs: If you prefer a semi-rural feel, places like Pinhoe (with its own station), Cranbrook (new town east of Exeter), or villages in East Devon might appeal. They’re farther out but have new housing communities.

When choosing a neighborhood, think about what matters most: commuting time, budget, community, nearby schools or parks. Each part of Exeter has strengths, whether it’s urban excitement or suburban peace.

Moving Services and Support

Moving to a new home often requires hiring help, especially if you have many belongings or heavy furniture. In Exeter, there are professional removal companies that handle all aspects of your move. For example, Ed Kowalski Removals is a local firm that offers services such as house removals, clearances, and a “man and van” option.

A full-service removal generally means the company packs, loads, drives, and unloads everything for you. They have the vans, equipment, and manpower to move large items (like sofas, fridges, or pianos) safely.
A clearance service includes moving you and disposing of any unwanted stuff (old furniture or junk) you don’t want to take to the new home. The team will recycle or donate what they can.
The man and van option is budget-friendly: movers come with a van, but you help with packing and lifting. It’s a mix of professional support and personal effort.

Using professionals can save time and physical strain. They also provide packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap) and tips on labeling and organizing. It’s usually best to get quotes from a couple of companies and book early, as Exeter is busy especially in the summer. Peak times like end-of-month or holidays can fill up quickly.

Moving Checklist: Before the big day, make a list of tasks to keep organized. For instance:

Declutter by sorting out what to donate or recycle.
Label boxes by room and contents.
Notify current and new landlords or estate agents about move-out and move-in dates.
Redirect mail or update address for bank accounts, subscriptions, and official documents.
Arrange utilities: Let your electricity, gas, water, and internet providers know you’re moving. In the UK, you’ll need to set up new accounts for the new address (often online or by phone).
Pack a “day box” with essentials (toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers) so you’re comfortable on the first night in your new home.

All of this planning will help your move go smoothly. And remember, a local team like Ed Kowalski Removals or any reputable Exeter removal firm can be a great help in turning a daunting task into a well-organized process.

Settling In: Key Considerations

Once you arrive in Exeter, there are a few more practical matters to handle. Many new residents go through similar steps:

Utilities and Council Tax: Set up your gas, electricity, and broadband at the new address as soon as possible. Register with the local council for Council Tax (it’s usually done automatically if you rent via a landlord). Keep records of meter readings on move-in day in case of disputes.
Banking and Official Documents: If you’re moving from outside the UK, you might need to open a UK bank account or get a UK driving license. Also, make sure your passport address is updated. If required, apply for a National Insurance Number for employment.
Healthcare: Register with a local GP (doctor) and dentist. In Exeter, you can choose a surgery (medical practice) near your home; they usually require proof of address and an ID. Once registered, you can access the NHS healthcare services.
Transportation Cards: Exeter offers bus passes and student travel cards. If you plan to use buses frequently, look into a monthly bus pass for savings. Students should check if the university provides travel cards or bike hire options.
Community and Recreation: Exeter has community centers, sports clubs, and volunteer opportunities. Consider joining local social media groups or community boards (e.g. on Facebook or local forums) to get tips and meet neighbors. Libraries, gyms, churches, and sports teams are also good ways to connect.
Shopping and Services: Most necessities are easy to find. The city has big supermarkets (like Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Lidl, Morrisons) and smaller grocers. There are home stores, pharmacies, and high street shops in Princesshay and Guildhall Shopping Centre. Newcomers often note that Exeter’s market (open a few days a week) is excellent for fresh produce.
Education: If you have children, look into local schools. Exeter’s schools are generally well-regarded. Each area is served by specific primary and secondary schools, so check catchment zones if that’s a priority. The University of Exeter also offers public lectures and cultural events if you’re interested.

Adjusting to a new city takes time, but Exeter’s welcoming character makes it easier. Whether it’s exploring the Cathedral Green, cycling along the canal, or grabbing a coffee on the Quay, take time to enjoy what your new home has to offer.

Top Tips for a Successful Move

Visit First: If possible, spend a weekend or a few days in Exeter before moving. Walk or drive through neighborhoods to see what feels right.
Budget Wisely: Remember moving costs (van hire, deposits, new furniture) and ongoing expenses. Exeter is generally cheaper than London, but it’s still a city with living costs.
Plan Timing: Moving outside school holiday periods (if you have kids or if you’re a student) can save money on housing. Booking a removal service in the off-season might also be easier.
Make Friends: Consider joining a local club or class. Exeter has sports teams, book clubs, and cultural groups that are great for meeting people.
Stay Organized: Keep copies of your important documents (IDs, lease, visa, insurance). Make a digital backup in case something is lost during the move.

With these ideas in mind, your transition to Exeter can be smoother and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living like in Exeter?

Living in Exeter is generally more affordable than in major southern cities. Housing (rent or purchase) tends to be cheaper than London or the Southeast. Daily expenses like groceries and utilities are moderate. Keep in mind that costs can vary by lifestyle: eating out in the city centre costs more than shopping at supermarkets. Overall, Exeter offers good value for the quality of life you get.

Which neighborhoods are best for families or singles?

Families: Areas like St Leonard’s, Alphington, and Topsham are known for being family-friendly. They have good schools, parks, and quiet streets.
Singles or Students: The city centre, St James, and Pennsylvania are great if you want to be close to nightlife, the university, or city amenities. Heavitree and St Thomas also have young professionals and some lively social scenes.
Couples or Young Professionals: St Leonard’s, Heavitree, and areas close to the Quayside strike a balance between accessibility and community feel.

Every neighborhood has its mix of residents. It’s best to visit areas you like at different times of day to see if the atmosphere suits you.

Is Exeter a safe place to live?

Exeter is considered a safe city. It has relatively low crime rates compared to larger cities. Of course, normal precautions apply (locking your car, watching your belongings). Areas around the city centre can be busy, especially at night, but there are police patrols and emergency services readily available. Many residents praise Exeter’s friendly and calm environment, which contributes to its sense of safety.

Do I need a removal company to move?

You don’t strictly need one, but a removal service can greatly simplify the process, especially for large moves. If you have a lot of furniture or just want a hassle-free experience, hiring professionals is smart. Companies like Ed Kowalski Removals in Exeter provide everything from full packing and moving to just driving a van. If your move is small, you could rent a van and DIY it, but be aware of the physical effort and planning involved.

How do I find housing in Exeter?

Start by searching online listing sites for rentals or homes to buy, and get in touch with local estate agents. Many newcomers look at neighbourhoods first and then see what is available there. Attend viewings if you can, and apply quickly for good deals (the rental market can move fast). If you’re planning a big move, consider short-term accommodation at first (like a short let or B&B) while you look around.