Village vs city living in East Anglia – which is right for you?

There’s always been a big debate about whether city or countryside living is better. Both offer their own pros and cons of course, with the final decision on where to settle often coming down to pure preference. With East Anglia offering the perfect mix of city and village living, making the choice becomes even more difficult. So, how do the two compare in this particular region, and is there any way of enjoying the best of both?

Why village living is best

With more space, greenery, community and character, villages in East Anglia regularly top the chart of the best places to live in the country, and for good reason. Rural idylls like pricey yet popular Grantchester, picturesque Great and Little Shelford (known collectively as The Shelfords) and iconic Lavenham are beautiful to look at and even better to live in, but this can come at a cost.

For many, the quieter pace, close-knit communities and prime access to the countryside are worth paying a premium for. You should however bear in mind that you may be more dependent on your car, experience longer (less convenient) journeys to work or healthcare, or be privy to slower broadband speeds when settling in a more remote location.

There is an East Anglian village for everyone though! For heritage and character, explore Lavenham, Long Melford or Dedham. Find great commutes from the villages of Great Chesterford, or go further into the sticks by buying in Burnham Market.

Choose city living instead

Those looking for better access, connections and amenities might just prefer what a city in East Anglia has to offer. While the trade-off is higher prices, less outdoor space, expensive parking, noise and traffic, the right property can help you carve out a fulfilling life in the heart of the city.

The cities of Cambridge, Peterborough, Norwich and Ipswich are often recommended as great bases, with Ipswich a particularly underrated and budget friendly option. For those looking to commute to London, Chelmsford is an excellent option too as GoodMove explains:

“Living in Chelmsford continues to attract buyers and renters looking for a balanced lifestyle within easy reach of London. This Essex city has grown into a well-connected hub with green spaces, strong schools and a lively centre that feels modern without losing its character. Whether you are relocating for work, family or simply a change of pace, Chelmsford offers a mix of convenience and a good sprinkle of community spirit.”

Discover the best of both

When weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of village and city living, we think – why choose? You can have the best of both worlds by looking beyond the village and city divide, and exploring East Anglia’s many market towns and suburbs.

Places like Wymondham, Ely, Bury St Edmunds, Saffron Walden and St Neots offer quieter locations without isolation from civilisation. Their properties also generally offer more space than in a city centre location, with transport links, schools and other everyday amenities, and the countryside, all able to be conveniently accessed.

Whether buying a property in the city, countryside or somewhere in between, our East Anglia based mortgage specialists can support you. Find your local advisor today!