Moving to Exeter: What to Expect When Relocating to Devon’s Capital

Moving to Exeter, the historic capital of Devon, is an exciting opportunity to enjoy life in one of England’s most charming small cities. This vibrant cathedral city perfectly balances old and new – ancient Roman walls and a stunning Gothic cathedral sit alongside modern shops, cafes, and businesses. Consistently rated as one of the best places to live in the UK, Exeter offers a high quality of life with a friendly community feel. Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, the nearby Devon countryside, or a new job or study opportunity, relocating to Exeter can be a fantastic choice. In this guide, we’ll cover what to expect when living in Exeter, from its lifestyle and neighborhoods to practical moving tips. By understanding the city and planning ahead, you can make your relocation to Exeter smooth and stress-free.

Why Move to Exeter? Key Benefits of Life in Devon’s Capital

Relocating to Exeter means you’ll gain a host of benefits that make the city special. Here are some of the top reasons people fall in love with living here:

• Safe and Friendly Community: Exeter is known for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere. It was even named one of the UK’s friendliest cities in recent surveys. Neighbors look out for each other, and there’s a strong sense of community. Expect to feel safe walking around and to quickly get a warm, friendly vibe from the locals.

• Rich History and Culture: As a city dating back to Roman times, Exeter is steeped in history. You can explore the ancient city walls, historic Exeter Cathedral, and medieval underground passages. At the same time, the city has a lively modern cultural scene – galleries, theaters, live music venues, and museums like the Royal Albert Memorial Museum offer plenty to see and do. There are also frequent community events and festivals celebrating everything from food to local arts.

• Vibrant yet Peaceful Lifestyle: Exeter manages to be both vibrant and peaceful. The city centre is bustling with shops (Princesshay shopping centre and High Street have all the big brands and independent boutiques), restaurants, pubs, and cafes, so you’ll never be bored. Yet Exeter isn’t an overwhelming metropolis – traffic is relatively light, and the city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate. You can enjoy city amenities without the intense crowds or stress of a bigger city. Many residents love that they can have a slower pace of life here while still enjoying urban conveniences.

• Excellent Amenities: Despite its moderate size, Exeter has all the amenities you need. There are excellent schools (including some of Devon’s top-rated primary and secondary schools), a well-regarded university (University of Exeter) with a beautiful campus, and quality healthcare facilities like the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. For shopping and leisure, you’ll find everything from supermarkets and retail parks to gyms, cinemas, and leisure centres. The city’s sports scene is strong too – you can catch football at Exeter City’s St James Park or rugby with the famous Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park stadium.

• Access to Nature and Coast: One of Exeter’s greatest perks is how close it is to nature. Devon’s countryside and coastline are on your doorstep. The expansive Dartmoor National Park is only about 10 miles away, offering hiking, cycling, and wild ponies on the moors for weekend adventures. Beautiful beaches like Exmouth and Dawlish Warren on the Jurassic Coast are under a half-hour drive or short train ride away, perfect for a day by the sea. Even within the city, you’ll find plenty of green spaces and parks (like Northernhay Gardens and Rougemont Gardens) to relax in. Living in Exeter means you can easily balance city life with outdoor excursions.

• Strong Economy and Job Opportunities: Exeter may be small, but it punches above its weight economically. The city has a thriving job market and is a regional hub for business, education, and technology. Major employers include the University of Exeter, the Met Office (the UK’s national weather service, headquartered here), and Exeter Science Park companies, as well as healthcare, retail, and tourism sectors. The unemployment rate is low and new businesses continue to invest in the area. If you’re moving for work, you’ll find a range of opportunities and a growing economy in Exeter.

• Affordable Living (Compared to London): While housing in Exeter isn’t cheap by national standards, it is more affordable than larger UK cities like London or Bristol. Both rental prices and home prices offer better value for money. For example, consumer prices (excluding rent) and rents in Exeter are significantly lower than in London – often around 20–50% lower depending on the item. This means your salary can stretch further here. You can enjoy a high standard of living without the extreme costs of a big metropolis. We’ll discuss housing and neighborhoods in more detail next.

• Great Transport Links: You might be surprised at how well-connected Exeter is. The city lies on the M5 motorway, giving easy road access north toward Bristol/Birmingham and south further into Devon and Cornwall. Exeter has two main railway stations (Exeter St David’s and Exeter Central) with direct trains to London (just 2 hours to Paddington), Bristol (about 1 hour), Birmingham, and beyond. There’s also Exeter International Airport just outside the city, offering flights to other UK cities and Europe. Local public transport includes a comprehensive bus network around the city and cycling routes. So, even without a car, getting around Exeter and traveling further afield is quite convenient.

• Quality of Life: Ultimately, the quality of life in Exeter is a huge draw. Residents enjoy a healthy work-life balance, a clean environment, and shorter commutes (it’s rare to drive more than 20-30 minutes to get across town). The city’s size means you spend less time in traffic and more time doing what you love. Many who relocate here find they quickly feel at home. The combination of community spirit, culture, and natural beauty makes Exeter an exceptional place to live for families, professionals, and students alike.

In summary, moving to Exeter offers the best of both worlds: a city big enough to provide all the essentials and entertainment you want, yet small enough to feel personal, relaxed, and connected to nature. Next, let’s explore Exeter’s different neighborhoods and what you can expect from each area when choosing your new home.

Exeter’s Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Exeter

One of the most important decisions when relocating is deciding which neighborhood to live in. Exeter offers a variety of districts, each with its own character, advantages, and things to know. Whether you prefer a bustling urban atmosphere or a quieter suburban vibe, you’ll find a part of Exeter that suits your lifestyle. Below, we describe some of the city’s well-known neighborhoods and what to expect in each:

City Centre

If you love being in the heart of the action, Exeter’s compact city centre might be ideal. Living in the city centre means you’ll have shops, restaurants, cafes, and historic sites right on your doorstep. The High Street and Princesshay mall are within walking distance, as are attractions like Exeter Cathedral and the quayside. Accommodation here is mostly modern apartments, converted flats in older buildings, and some townhouses. Parking can be limited, and it’s a busier area (especially when university students are about), but the convenience is unbeatable. City centre living suits young professionals, couples, or anyone who wants to be able to walk to everything and enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown Exeter. Just be prepared for a bit more noise and limited outdoor space – though beautiful parks like Northernhay Gardens are nearby for green relief.

St. Leonard’s

St. Leonard’s is often cited as one of the most desirable areas in Exeter. Located just south and east of the centre, it has a charming almost village-like feel but is very close to downtown. This neighborhood is known for its leafy streets and elegant period homes – you’ll find many large Victorian and Georgian houses, often painted in pastel hues or with classic white stucco. St. Leonard’s is popular with families and professionals who appreciate the spacious homes and top-notch amenities. The area boasts some of the city’s best schools (both state and independent), including a preparatory school and Exeter School, making it great for those moving with children. There’s a strong community spirit, with local independent shops and cafes along Magdalen Road giving a cozy, upscale vibe. Do note that all this desirability comes at a price: St. Leonard’s is one of the most expensive areas in Exeter for property, whether buying or renting. But residents love the combination of tranquility, beauty, and proximity to the city centre that this neighborhood provides.

Heavitree

Located to the east of the city centre, Heavitree is a popular suburb for families and first-time buyers. It offers a nice mix of housing, from narrow streets of red-brick Victorian terraces to larger semi-detached and detached homes. Many of the houses have gardens, and the area has a more suburban lifestyle while still being only about ten minutes from the centre. Heavitree has several good schools and parks (Heavitree Pleasure Ground is a lovely green space with play areas and sports facilities). There’s a local high street with shops, pubs, and cafes, so day-to-day necessities are within walking distance. Residents describe Heavitree as friendly and convenient – you’ll see parents with prams, people walking dogs, and a generally relaxed pace. It’s also close to the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital (great for healthcare workers who want a short commute). Housing here is more affordable than St. Leonard’s, though prices have risen due to the area’s popularity. Overall, Heavitree offers a community feel and good value, making it a solid choice when moving to Exeter.

St. Thomas

On the western side of the River Exe, just across the river from the city centre, you’ll find St. Thomas. This area is one of Exeter’s underrated gems, known for being affordable and convenient. St. Thomas has a variety of housing: you can find everything from Victorian terraces and council houses to new-build apartments along the river. It’s popular among young families and professionals who want to be near the centre (a short walk over one of the bridges and you’re in the city core) but who appreciate a slightly quieter, residential vibe. There’s a large retail park (Exeter’s Marsh Barton and Exe Bridges area) and supermarkets in St. Thomas, so shopping is easy. Cowick Street is the local high street with shops, pubs, and a train station (Exeter St Thomas station) for local routes. Because it’s outside the main city centre, rental and purchase prices in St. Thomas tend to be a bit lower, offering more bang for your buck. If you’re moving to Exeter on a tighter budget or just want a down-to-earth community feel, St. Thomas is worth considering. It’s a practical choice with the city centre still highly accessible.

Topsham

Technically a town of its own, Topsham is often considered one of Exeter’s most desirable locations for those seeking a picturesque setting. Topsham lies just to the southeast of Exeter, about 4 miles from the city centre, along the estuary of the River Exe. If you don’t mind living slightly outside the city proper, you’ll be rewarded with a quaint riverside lifestyle. Topsham has a rich maritime history as a former fishing and port town, and it retains a charming character – think narrow streets with historic cottages, independent boutiques, antiques markets, and cosy pubs. Many properties have beautiful river views. The community is active and hosts things like a Saturday market and seasonal festivals. For moving practicality, Topsham has its own train station with regular services into Exeter (just an 8-minute ride to Exeter Central) and easy access to the M5 motorway. This area is perfect if you want a village atmosphere with sailing, birdwatching, and riverside walks, yet still be within easy reach of the city. Housing prices here are relatively high due to the area’s popularity and limited supply (those cute cottages and townhouses are sought-after!). If you’re relocating for a slower pace or retirement, or you have the budget for a scenic family home, Topsham might be your dream spot near Exeter.

Pennsylvania

Located on a hill to the north of the city centre, Pennsylvania is a largely residential area known for its mix of student housing and family homes. It’s home to some of the University of Exeter’s campuses and halls, which means parts of Pennsylvania have a student vibe during term time. However, the neighborhood is big enough that there are also quiet residential pockets. The southern end of Pennsylvania (closer to the city and university) features attractive Victorian and Edwardian houses, many of which have been converted to student lets or remain as spacious family homes. Further north and west in Pennsylvania, you’ll find mid-20th-century developments with semi-detached houses, bungalows, and newer builds. One big advantage of this area is the panoramic views – being on higher ground, some properties in Pennsylvania boast lovely views over Exeter and the surrounding hills. There are local shops and pubs, though for big shopping trips you might head into city centre or nearby areas. If you’re moving to Exeter to work at the university or want a locale that’s slightly removed from downtown bustle, Pennsylvania is a solid choice. Just be aware that some streets will have more student activity (noise, etc.) and parking can be tight around the university. Overall, it’s a pleasant area with a mix of communities and generally more moderate housing prices than the likes of St. Leonard’s.

Exwick

On the northwestern edge of Exeter lies Exwick, a suburb that offers more affordable housing and a quieter atmosphere. Exwick has traditionally been a working-class and family area, with a lot of 20th-century houses and newer estates. You’ll find many semi-detached homes, terraces, and flats that are reasonably priced relative to closer-in neighborhoods. For those relocating on a budget, Exwick can be appealing because you might get a bit more space or garden for your money. The area has local amenities like small shops, a few takeaways, and Exwick playing fields and countryside trails for outdoor walks. It is a hilly area, so some parts of Exwick have great views over the city. There are frequent buses connecting Exwick to the city centre (which is only about 2 miles away), and St David’s Station is not far, making it manageable even if you don’t drive. Exwick may not have the polish of more central districts, but residents often praise it as friendly and down-to-earth. If you want an economical option or are a first-time buyer, Exwick is worth looking into when moving to Exeter.

Alphington

Alphington is a suburb located to the southwest of Exeter’s city centre. It was once a village and still retains a bit of a village identity, despite now being well within the city’s suburbs. Alphington is known for its quiet residential feel. The housing stock here is mixed: you’ll see older cottages on the old village streets, plenty of mid-to-late 20th century houses and bungalows, and some new-build developments on the fringes. It’s a popular area for families and retirees who want a peaceful neighborhood and perhaps a larger garden. There are a few local pubs, a post office, and small shops, but for extensive shopping most people drive to the Marsh Barton area or into the city. Alphington offers quick access to the A30 and M5, which is great if your move involves commuting by car or travel. It’s also near the beginning of the Devon Expressway towards Plymouth. Property prices here are mid-range for Exeter – generally more affordable than St. Leonard’s or Topsham, and you can find solid family homes without breaking the bank. Moving to Alphington is ideal if you prefer a suburban, family-oriented environment where you can unwind away from the hustle, yet be only a 10-minute drive from the city attractions.

Pinhoe

On the northeast outskirts of Exeter is Pinhoe, another former village turned suburb that’s growing in popularity. Pinhoe is a bit further out (around 3-4 miles from the city centre) but it has good connectivity and is seeing a lot of development. For those relocating to Exeter and looking for a new-build home, Pinhoe is a hotspot – several modern housing estates with new houses and flats have been built here in recent years, appealing to young families and professionals. The area has its own railway station (Pinhoe Station) on the line toward London Waterloo, and easy access to the M5 and A30, which makes it great for commuters. Pinhoe has a few supermarkets, schools, and local shops, so you have daily essentials at hand. Community-wise, it’s quieter and more small-town in feel than living in the city proper. People choose Pinhoe when they want a newer property or a bit more space for their budget, while still being within a short drive or train ride of Exeter city life. One thing to note is that as a growing area, there can be ongoing construction of housing estates. But overall, Pinhoe offers convenience and value – a comfortable base for your new life in Exeter if you don’t mind being slightly removed from the city buzz.

Choosing a neighborhood: As you can see, Exeter has diverse areas – from lively central districts to leafy upscale streets, and suburban pockets with village charm. When deciding where to live, consider your priorities: Do you want to walk to work or nightlife? Is having a big garden or quiet street important? What can you afford comfortably? Researching and even visiting these neighborhoods, if possible, will help you get a feel for each. The good news is that nowhere in Exeter is too far from anywhere else in the city. Even if you live in a suburb, you’re typically only 10-20 minutes from the centre by car or bus, so you can enjoy everything the city offers. Many newcomers find that all Exeter neighborhoods share a certain warmth and easygoing quality that makes the city as a whole a great place to settle down.

Tips for a Smooth Relocation to Exeter

Once you’ve decided to move to Exeter and perhaps even picked out an area to live, the next step is planning the move itself. Moving can be stressful, but with some preparation and the right help, you can make your relocation a lot easier. Here are a few tips for a smooth move to Exeter:

1. Plan Ahead and Get to Know the Area: Before moving day, do some practical homework. Make a checklist of everything you need to do (giving notice to your current landlord, arranging school transfers if you have kids, notifying utilities and banks of address change, etc.). It also helps to familiarize yourself with Exeter’s layout and services. For example, figure out the route for your commute or school run, find out where the nearest supermarkets and clinics are in your new area, and check public transport timetables if you’ll be using the bus or train. The more you know ahead of time, the less overwhelmed you’ll feel when you arrive.

2. Declutter Before Packing: Moving is the perfect time to streamline your belongings. Go through your items and declutter what you don’t need. Donate, sell, or recycle things that you don’t want to bring to Exeter. Not only will this reduce the volume (and potentially cost) of your move, but you’ll start life in your new home with only the possessions you truly use and value. Exeter has various charity shops that will welcome donations, and fewer boxes mean a quicker, simpler move.

3. Pack Smart and Label Boxes: Start packing well in advance of your move, tackling a bit each day. Pack room by room and label each box clearly with its contents and which room it belongs in (e.g., “Kitchen – dishes and cutlery”). This will save you a headache when unpacking. For fragile items, use plenty of padding and mark those boxes as “Fragile.” Consider keeping important documents, valuable jewelry, and essential electronics with you during the move for safety. If the idea of packing up your whole house is daunting, you can opt for professional packing services offered by moving companies – they’ll do it efficiently and have all the proper materials.

4. Hire a Reliable Removal Company: One of the best ways to take the stress out of relocating is to enlist the help of professionals. A trusted removals company can handle the heavy lifting, transportation, and logistics of moving your furniture and boxes. In Exeter and Devon, for example, Ed Kowalski Removals is a local company that offers friendly, professional moving services. Working with experienced movers means you won’t have to worry about driving a big van through new streets or carrying that sofa up a narrow staircase by yourself. The experts will have the right equipment to protect your belongings (like straps, blankets, and trolleys) and can often complete the move faster than you could on your own. Be sure to book your chosen removal company well ahead of time – especially if you plan to move during a busy period like summer or month-end, as slots can fill up.

5. Consider Additional Services: Think about any extra help you might need. Some removal companies offer packing services, furniture disassembly/reassembly, or storage solutions if you need to store items temporarily. If you’re moving from far away or overseas, ask about long-distance moving options and customs paperwork (if applicable). Because Exeter is a smaller city, not all national moving firms are based here, but local specialists like Ed Kowalski Removals can coordinate both local and long-distance moves. Using a company that knows the Exeter area is a bonus – they’ll be familiar with the neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and best routes to your new home.

6. Handle Utilities and Registration Early: Before you move, set up your utilities at the new place (electricity, gas, water, internet) to start from your move-in date, so you aren’t left in the dark or without Wi-Fi. After moving, remember to register with a local GP (doctor) and dentist, and update your address on your driver’s license, voter registration, and with any relevant authorities. Exeter has plenty of local services; for example, Devon County Council’s website can guide you on things like registering for council tax at your new address or getting a resident parking permit if needed.

7. Embrace the Exeter Lifestyle: Once you arrive, take time to settle in and explore. Say hello to your neighbors – people in Exeter are generally warm and happy to chat, which can help you feel at home faster. Explore your new neighborhood on foot: find your nearest park, have a coffee at a local cafe, check out the closest grocery store or farmers market. Getting involved in the community, whether by joining a local club, attending a weekend event in the city, or just frequenting the local pub, will help you meet people and adjust. Exeter has a very community-oriented spirit, with plenty of clubs (from rugby and cycling to book clubs and volunteer groups) that welcome newcomers. Don’t be shy about joining in!

By following these tips and staying organized, your move to Exeter should be far smoother. Remember that every relocation has its challenges, but the result – enjoying your new life in this wonderful city – will be worth it. With preparation and perhaps a bit of professional assistance, you’ll be settled in Exeter before you know it, ready to enjoy all that Devon’s capital has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Moving to Exeter

Is Exeter a good place to live?

Yes, Exeter is widely regarded as an excellent place to live. It offers a balance of city amenities and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. In fact, Exeter has been rated among the best places to live in the UK thanks to its safety, green surroundings, and vibrant culture. You’ll find good schools, a top university, plenty of job opportunities, and lots of things to do in your free time. Whether you’re a young professional, a student, or raising a family, Exeter provides a welcoming and enjoyable environment.

What are the best areas to live in Exeter?

Exeter has several great neighborhoods, and the “best” area depends on your preferences. St. Leonard’s is very popular for its beautiful homes and village-like feel (though it’s one of the priciest areas). Heavitree and Pennsylvania are also favored by families due to good schools and a suburban vibe. If you want to be close to the action, the City Centre or Exeter Quayside area offers shops, restaurants, and nightlife at your doorstep (mostly in modern flats). St. Thomas on the west side is an affordable, up-and-coming area with a friendly community, while Topsham provides a picturesque riverside setting a short distance from the city. Exwick and parts of Pinhoe or Alphington are good for more budget-friendly options and space. All these areas have their own charm – it’s a good idea to visit and get a feel for which neighborhood matches your lifestyle and budget.

Is living in Exeter expensive?

Living in Exeter is moderately priced – more affordable than London or southern cities like Oxford, but a bit more expensive than some smaller towns in the UK. Housing will likely be your biggest expense. As of recent years, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Exeter might cost around £800–£1,000 per month, and a three-bedroom house might be in the range of £1,200–£1,600 per month, depending on the area and property condition. Buying a home in Exeter is also relatively affordable compared to the national average: the average house price in the city is lower than in many other parts of southern England (with two-bed homes around £250,000–£300,000 in many areas). Day-to-day costs such as groceries, dining out, and leisure are reasonable and on par with UK averages; you’ll find plenty of options for various budgets. One budget-friendly aspect is transportation – since Exeter is not huge, you might spend less on petrol or commuting costs, and public transport fares are not too bad. Overall, while you will need to budget for housing carefully (especially in the more sought-after neighborhoods), many people find that the cost of living in Exeter is fair given the quality of life you get in return.

Are there good job opportunities in Exeter?

Exeter has a healthy job market for a city of its size. Key sectors include education (the University of Exeter is a major employer and creates many jobs in research, administration, etc.), healthcare (the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital and healthcare services), and public administration (Devon County Council and local government offices). The Met Office (the UK’s national weather forecasting service) is headquartered in Exeter, employing many in IT, science, and administration. There’s also a growing tech and services sector – Exeter Science Park hosts various innovative companies, and the city has numerous firms in finance, law, and creative industries. Retail and tourism/hospitality are significant too, given Exeter’s role as a regional shopping destination and its historic attractions. While Exeter isn’t as large as a metropolitan city, its unemployment rate is generally low and new businesses are setting up shop, so job growth has been positive. If you work in a specialized field and don’t find a local employer, keep in mind Exeter’s excellent transport links mean commuting or remote working are viable options (for instance, some people live in Exeter and work from home or travel occasionally to London/Bristol). In short, there are good opportunities in Exeter, especially in education, healthcare, tech, and professional services – it’s a city on the rise economically.

Do I need a car to live in Exeter, or is there good public transport?

You do not necessarily need a car to live comfortably in Exeter, though it can be useful if you plan to explore the rural areas of Devon frequently. Exeter is a compact city with a reliable public transport network. Buses run throughout the city and to surrounding suburbs regularly, and there are multiple train stations connecting you to nearby towns and the national rail network. If you live and work/study in the city, you’ll find that many places are within walking or cycling distance – cycling is popular in Exeter and there are bike lanes and trails (like the Exe Estuary Trail) that make getting around on a bicycle easy. The city centre is quite walkable. For trips slightly further, buses can take you to major residential areas, shopping centers, and business parks. That said, if you want to venture into the countryside (Dartmoor, coastal villages) or have the flexibility to drive to more remote spots, having a car can be an advantage. Parking in Exeter is manageable (many homes in suburbs have driveways, and city car parks are available), but like any city, it can be tight right in the centre. In summary, you can live in Exeter without a car – many people do – thanks to decent public transport and short distances. If you do have a car, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beautiful surrounding regions at your own pace.

Should I hire a professional removals company for my move to Exeter?

Hiring a professional removals company is highly recommended for a stress-free move to Exeter, especially if you have a lot of furniture or are coming from a distant location. A reputable moving company will handle the heavy lifting, loading and unloading of boxes, and safe transport of your belongings, which can save you time, physical strain, and potential damage to your items. Local companies like Ed Kowalski Removals (based in Exeter) specialize in helping people relocate to Devon and know the area well. They can provide services such as packing your household goods, disassembling and reassembling furniture, and even temporary storage if needed. By hiring professionals, you also ensure your possessions are insured during the move, giving you extra peace of mind. While it is an additional expense, many find it well worth it for the convenience. If your budget is very tight and you have fewer belongings, you could attempt a DIY move by renting a van – but navigating unfamiliar roads and carrying heavy items into a new house can be tricky without help. In short, a good removals company will make your move to Exeter much smoother and let you focus on settling into your new home rather than worrying about logistics. It’s always a good idea to book the movers a few weeks in advance and get a quote, so you know what to expect in terms of cost and services.

Moving to Exeter is the start of an exciting new chapter. With its mix of history, community spirit, and wonderful Devon location, the city has a lot to offer newcomers. By preparing well and tapping into local resources (and maybe with a little help from friendly professionals), you’ll soon feel right at home in Exeter. Good luck with your relocation, and welcome to Devon’s capital!