The West Midlands is one of the several UK regions boasting a decent quality of life, and you’re certainly making an intelligent choice if you move to this area. This historic English region has stunning countryside, charming towns, and exciting cities. Whether you prefer the bustle of Birmingham or the culture-rich scenes of Warwick, the West Midlands has something for everyone.
This guide will take you on a tour of the best places to live in the West Midlands. We’re confident it’ll enable you to find your perfect new home — from chic loft apartments in Wolverhampton to cosy cottages in Warwickshire. Pack your bags; the West Midlands awaits!
The 5 Top Residential Areas in the West Midlands
The table below outlines our top picks of the best places to live in the Midlands based on set criteria.
1. Wolverhampton
Up and Coming City With Major Regeneration and Investment
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: Around £536 per month
- Average house price: £225,364
- Population: 270,677 (2023)
Wolverhampton is quickly becoming one of the top residential areas in the West Midlands. This up-and-coming city is experiencing significant regeneration and investment, as we’ll observe below.
- New Residential Developments: Wolverhampton is seeing an influx of modern apartments and housing. Paragon Living has converted the Sunbeam factory into a historic, unrivalled development with luxury in mind. Check out the Sunbeam apartment complex for the array of 5-star elegant apartments with state-of-the-art amenities this development brings to Wolverhampton.
- Improved Infrastructure: The new West Midlands Metro tram extension makes getting into Birmingham’s city centre more accessible.
- Vibrant Culture: Wolverhampton has a lively arts and music scene. Catch a show at the Grand Theater at your convenience. The city also hosts popular annual events like the Wolverhampton Literature Festival and the Wolverhampton Beer & Cider Festival.
- Affordability: Wolverhampton’s house prices and living costs are lower than in nearby cities like Birmingham. Renters and buyers get more bang for their buck with more stylish properties at lower prices. Make an enquiry today if you’re keen on living in one of these chic apartments.
Overall, there are many nice places to live in Wolverhampton, as the area strikes the perfect balance of city amenities and small-town charm. Infrastructure, housing, arts, and culture investments are transforming this place into one of the most appealing spots in the West Midlands. As such, Wolverhampton deserves your consideration if you’re looking for an exciting city with an up-and-coming vibe. And if you’re a business professional, check out this blog on why Wolverhampton is the best location for you to be.
2. Birmingham
Vibrant City With a Buzzing Food, Arts and Nightlife Scene
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: Around £900 per month
- Average house price: £287,496
- Population: 863,000 (2023)
Birmingham stands out as one of the most desirable locations in the West Midlands — a vibrant city with a buzzing food, arts and nightlife scene.
Here are the city’s most remarkable features:
- A cultural hub, Birmingham is home to renowned venues like the Birmingham Hippodrome and Birmingham Royal Ballet. You’ll find art galleries, museums, and an eclectic live music scene with indie bands and major touring acts.
- Foodies flock to Birmingham’s culinary destinations like the Bullring Market and Great Western Arcade. Dig into curries on the Balti Triangle, enjoy fine dining at Simpson’s, or sample street food at Digbeth Dining Club. With restaurants offering flavours from around the world, you’ll never run out of new cuisines to try.
- For nightlife, head to the Arcadian Center or Broad Street. Birmingham has it all, whether you fancy craft cocktails, real ale pubs or late-night clubs.
- Brum offers green spaces, too, like Cannon Hill Park and Sutton Park. Get fresh air in the city’s largest park before enjoying the buzzing vibe again.
- New developments like Paragon Living’s properties are attracting young professionals with their co-working spaces, private lounges and dining areas. These versatile social spaces let you work, relax or entertain while enjoying an unparalleled living experience.
Birmingham has something for everyone, ranging from culture to cuisine, nightlife, and more. This vibrant city is an ideal place to call home if you want to live life to the fullest. The buzz of the city is balanced by lush green spaces and new residential communities offering a serene escape — offering you the best of both worlds.
3. Stratford-upon-Avon
A Picturesque Market Town With Historic Charm
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: Around £784 per month
- Average house price: £436,424
- Population: 137,193 (2023)
Simply referred to as Stratford, this medieval market town in the Warwickshire county of the West Midlands region is fast becoming a top residential area for many.
Let’s examine the several factors fueling this trend.
Charming Canalside Setting
Stratford-upon-Avon is set on the banks of the River Avon, with picturesque canalside walks and boating opportunities. The town has over 800 years of history and culture, with well-preserved Tudor-style buildings and architecture.
The town’s exquisite scenery makes it one of the recommended places to reside in the West Midlands. Stroll along the river or rent a boat to paddle down the waterway, soaking in the scenic surroundings.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
As the birthplace of William Shakespeare, perhaps the most famous English writer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit for any literature lover. You can tour Shakespeare’s childhood home and the church where he was baptised. The Royal Shakespeare Company also has three theatres where you can catch a performance of one of the Bard’s famous plays.
Plenty of Independent Shops
Stratford-upon-Avon has a charming town centre with several independent shops, boutiques, and eateries. You’ll find everything from cosy bookstores and tea rooms to artisanal craft and clothing stores.
Pick unique souvenirs or gifts, like Shakespeare memorabilia, luxury chocolates, or handmade jewellery. On market days, local vendors also set up stalls to sell fresh produce, baked goods, and other homemade wares.
Outdoor Recreation
Surrounded by the picturesque Warwickshire countryside, Stratford-upon-Avon offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. Go for a hike or bike ride on miles of trails, or try your hand at activities like boating, fishing, golfing or bird watching. Alternatively, pack a picnic and head to one of the town’s open green spaces, like the Bancroft Gardens along the River Avon.
With stunning scenery, rich history, culture, shopping and outdoor activities, Stratford-upon-Avon has something for everyone. It’s no wonder it remains one of the most desirable places to live in the West Midlands.
4. Warwick
A Historic Town With a Well-Preserved Centre
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: Around £924 per month
- Average house price: £393,896
- Population: 151,000 (2023)
Warwick is a picturesque historic town in the West Midlands, with roots dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. Settled along the River Avon, Warwick boasts a well-preserved town centre and many cultural attractions — making this town one of the best places to live in the West Midlands.
The following sections briefly illustrate what makes this town so desirable to live in by many.
A Wealth of History
- Warwick Castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses in England, with parts dating back over 955 years. Explore the ramparts, towers, and dungeons to glimpse the past.
- St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful example of 14th-century Gothic architecture. Climb the church tower for panoramic views of Warwick’s rooftops.
- Lord Leycester Hospital is a medieval timber-framed building that now serves as a retirement home for veterans. The chapel and guild hall are open for public tours.
Natural Beauty
- Stroll along the River Avon, which winds through the town centre. Well-manicured gardens, weeping willows, and charming footbridges create an idyllic setting.
- Visit one of Warwick’s many parks, like St. Nicholas Park or Castle Park. It’s perfect for picnics, walking the dog, or enjoying a bit of greenery.
Amenities Galore
- Warwick has no shortage of pubs, restaurants, and cafés. Grab a pint at one of the historic inns or dine al fresco along the High Street.
- An array of independent shops, from bookstores to home decor boutiques to cheese shops, line the streets of central Warwick.
- A cinema, sports centre, golf courses, and other recreational facilities provide entertainment and activities for residents and visitors.
Steeped in tradition yet brimming with amenities, Warwick offers a quintessentially British lifestyle in a picturesque setting. The town blends its long history with a vibrant present-day culture, creating a unique place to call home.
5. Solihull
A Prosperous Town With a Reputation For Affluence
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: Around £808 per month
- Average house price: £377,373
- Population: 218,000 (2023)
Solihull is a prosperous town in the West Midlands, located just southeast of Birmingham. Known for its affluence and greenery, Solihull offers an appealing combination of city life and natural surroundings, ideal for those seeking a good quality of life in the West Midlands.
Upmarket Living
Solihull is one of the more wealthy areas in the West Midlands, with higher-than-average house prices. This is reflected in its desirable neighbourhoods, like Knowle and Dorridge, which feature grand detached houses and upmarket apartments.
There are also upcoming developments around to area designed to cater to the town’s affluent demographic with luxury amenities and high-end properties. A good example is Paragon Living’s Sunbeam apartment complex in Wolverhampton — less than 30 miles away from Solihull.
Natural Beauty
Despite its proximity to Birmingham, Solihull retains a semi-rural feel with many parks, gardens and nature reserves. Highlights include Malvern and Brueton Parks and the picturesque Grand Union Canal, which runs through the town centre. Suffice it to say, Solihull offers the best of both worlds for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Convenient Location
Although a town in its own right, Solihull is well-connected to Birmingham by road and rail. The M42 motorway provides fast access to Birmingham city centre, just 16 miles (24 km) away. Frequent train services also run between Solihull and Birmingham, with a journey time of around 24–29 minutes. All of these make Solihull’s location ideal for commuters and those who want the amenities of a city close by.
Exciting Activities
You can do upmarket shopping at the Touchwood Center. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Solihull Summer Fest and Christmas Ice Rink. Given its prosperous economy, Solihull attracts investment in leisure facilities, restaurants, and entertainment.
Solihull deserves its reputation as an affluent, green and desirable place to live. The area offers an appealing choice in the West Midlands for those seeking a stylish town residence with good connections to Birmingham. Its natural beauty, convenient location, and upmarket lifestyle make it a popular area for professionals and families.
Choosing the Best Place to Live in the West Midlands With Paragon Living
When it comes to choosing the best areas to live in the West Midlands, Paragon Living stands out with our top-tier accommodations. The Sunbeam apartments in Wolverhampton, for instance, are a true epitome of luxury and comfort. With their stylish interiors and attention to detail, these apartments offer more than just a place to live; they offer a lifestyle.
Design and Comfort
What sets Paragon Living apart is the thoughtful design that goes into each apartment. The modern finishes, high ceilings, and spacious rooms create a contemporary living environment that's both comfortable and chic. It's a place where style and functionality go hand in hand, ensuring residents a satisfactory living experience.
Health and Wellness
Paragon Living goes beyond providing a roof over your head; we prioritise the well-being of our residents by incorporating health and wellness facilities within our premises. The fitness centre, for instance, is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment, allowing residents to maintain a healthy lifestyle without stepping out of their building. It’s not just a residential area; it’s a wellness hub.
Pet-Friendly Policies
Understanding the bond between humans and their furry friends, Paragon Living has a welcoming policy for pets. It’s a gesture that makes our developments more than just a residential area but a community. Your pets are as much a part of the Paragon family as you are.
Enjoying Wolverhampton’s Nightlife
The location of the Sunbeam apartments in the heart of Wolverhampton opens up a world of vibrant nightlife for its residents. From traditional pubs to trendy nightclubs, there’s always something to keep you entertained after sundown.
With our premium apartments, wellness facilities, pet-friendly policies, and prime location, Paragon Living is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality living in the West Midlands. It’s not just about finding a place to live; it’s about finding a place that enhances your lifestyle. Choose Paragon Living and embrace a life of comfort, wellness, and community in the heart of the West Midlands.
FAQ: The Best Places to Live in the West Midlands
Where is the best area to live in the West Midlands?
Birmingham and Wolverhampton are two notable cities in the West Midlands, each with its unique characteristics:
- Birmingham: As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with diverse neighbourhoods, excellent shopping facilities, cultural attractions, and a thriving food scene. It also has convenient transport links and a growing economy, making it an attractive option for professionals and families.
- Wolverhampton: A smaller city than Birmingham, Wolverhampton boasts a rich history, affordable housing, and good schools. It offers a balance between city living and access to surrounding green spaces. The city is also well-connected to Birmingham and other major cities, making it a suitable choice for commuters.
Is the West Midlands a good place to live?
Yes, the West Midlands is a good place to live, offering a mix of urban and rural settings, affordable housing, and amenities. The region has diverse cities, towns, and villages, each with unique character and attractions.
Some benefits of living in the West Midlands include the following:
- Transport Links: The West Midlands has strong transport connections, including rail, road, and air, providing easy access to other parts of the UK.
- Employment Opportunities: The region is home to various industries, offering job opportunities in different sectors.
- Education: Several universities and quality schools in the West Midlands, e.g., the University of Wolverhampton, make it suitable for families and students.
- Culture and Leisure: The West Midlands offers numerous cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres, as well as recreational facilities and green spaces.
Ultimately, whether the West Midlands is a good place for you to live depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and priorities.
What is the most affluent area in the West Midlands?
The most affluent area in the West Midlands is central Birmingham, which is known for its thriving economy, business opportunities, and luxury real estate. Within central Birmingham, neighbourhoods such as Edgbaston and Harborne are considered particularly desirable, offering upscale housing, excellent schools, and a range of amenities. However, it’s important to note that this affluence extends to various other desirable locations in the West Midlands (such as Wolverhampton and Solihull), and preferences may differ among individuals.
Is West Midlands expensive?
The cost of living in the West Midlands can vary depending on the specific area and lifestyle. Compared to London and other parts of the UK, the West Midlands is generally more affordable regarding housing, transportation, and other living expenses.
However, within the West Midlands are more expensive areas, such as central Birmingham and Solihull, and more budget-friendly locations like Wolverhampton or Walsall. When evaluating the cost of living, it’s essential to consider factors such as housing, utilities, transportation, and leisure activities to determine if a particular area suits your budget and lifestyle preferences.
Conclusion
This post has thoroughly analysed the best places to live in the West Midlands in 2024 based on several metrics and facts. Whether looking for an affordable city with many opportunities like Wolverhampton or Birmingham, or a peaceful village in the countryside like Solihull, the West Midlands has something for everyone.
With significant investments in infrastructure, redevelopment projects bringing new life to city centres, and a low cost of living, the region is poised for growth. If you’re considering moving to the area, contact us to help you find the perfect spot. The West Midlands is calling — will you answer?
