Moving to Manchester Alone
Moving alone can be daunting, especially if you’re new to the city. But, as I’m sure everyone keeps telling you, it’s one of the most exciting experiences you’ll ever have! Moving to Manchester alone provides you with so many new opportunities and experiences, you just have to take each step one at a time.
In 2017, a census from the Office of National Statistics declared that nearly eight million people lived alone in the UK with numbers still on the rise. Whether you’re a student looking for the best areas to study or you just want the peace that comes with living alone, Manchester is the place for you!
Before finding the best Manchester moving company, have a browse of our helpful guide and discover what could be waiting for you when you take the plunge and move to Manchester alone.
1. Diverse Accommodation on Offer
Property prices in Manchester vary greatly depending on location, size of the property and if you’re sharing with flatmates. But it’s always good to research your options. Moving to Manchester offers diverse accommodation and quaint rooms to rent. From modern house share opportunities to quirky, quieter rooms, you’ll find the perfect place to call home.
According to Room Go, the average roommate budget in Manchester is £491 pcm with the rent of double rooms averaging at £379 pcm. For those looking to live without flatmates, the average asking price for a 1-bedroom flat is £160,327 or there is the option of renting, averaging at £619 pcm. If you love the area and are considering purchasing a property, the Help to Buy Manchester scheme can help you save for the deposit.
2. The Best Areas to Live Alone in Manchester
There are a variety of places to live in Manchester that are perfect for a range of buyers. There are so many places to consider that it can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially on your own. To help narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of affordable areas to live alone in Manchester.
Sale
Voted the 4th best place to live in England in 2018, Sale is perfect for those wishing to live outside of the city centre, whilst also being close enough to never miss out. It’s a thriving commuter town with easy access to the M60 motorway and a Metro-link Network. With live concerts and a well-loved rugby club, it’s a place suited to those looking for activities to meet neighbours.
According to Rightmove, in the last year terraced properties sold for an average of £242,854 and flats for £153,301. For those looking for a flat-share, Room Go states that the average room rent in Sale is £425 pcm.
Blackley
Another alternative when moving to Manchester alone is Blackley. A suburban area, it’s 4.5 miles from Manchester city centre and offers a perfect balance of suburban and city life. There are a variety of bus lines available as well as Metro-link trams for easy commuting.
According to Zoopla, the average asking price for a 1-bedroom flat is £63,750 whilst renting would cost £477 pcm.
Castlefield
Surviving Roman forts, old mills and quaint cobbled streets are all mixed alongside modern, high-end bars and restaurants in Castlefield. Filled with intriguing history and fantastic festivals, there’s so much to explore.
According to Zoopla, the average asking price for a 1-bedroom flat is £210,079, or £802 pcm to rent. A higher price but perfect for those looking for the quieter side to Manchester. There is also the opportunity to live with flatmates for £488 pcm according to Room Go.
Fallowfield
With an average asking price of £129,000 for 1-bedroom flats, Fallowfield is another great place when moving to Manchester alone. It’s 3 miles south of the city centre and is a highly popular area for students with the Fallowfield Campus situated in the north.
Zoopla states that the average asking rent for 1-bedroom flats in Fallowfield is £537 pcm, or there is the opportunity to flatshare, with an average rent of £385 pcm.
Salford
A mere 1 mile from the city centre, it’s perfect for those wishing to live in an animated area, so you never miss out on events or opportunities. From rugby clubs to art galleries, there’s something for everyone in Salford.
Salford offers flat-shares with rent averaging at £425 pcm according to Room Go. The average asking price for a 1-bedroom flat according to Zoopla is £157,314, whilst the rent averages at £648 pcm.
3. Employment Opportunities are Never-Ending
Key employment sectors in Manchester include media, finance, logistics, IT, engineering and manufacturing as well as health and education. It’s a thriving city that’s bursting with opportunities for those moving alone. The city has a large student population suggesting that many see the potential it has and the opportunities it provides.
For the creative types, ITV and the BBC have regional headquarters in Manchester, providing job opportunities in TV and digital media. With a variety of schools and universities, there are many options for those looking to work in education, whilst the number of major hospitals encourages those in pharmaceuticals or health and social care. Making up 16.1% of the local economy, the manufacturing and engineering sector covers a range of specialist companies focusing on a variety of materials.
According to the Centre for Cities, the average weekly earnings in Manchester is £525.60, meaning that the average monthly earning is £2,278. Assuming you’re renting a 1-bedroom flat averaging at £619 pcm, you’re expendable income for bills and general leisure will be £1,659. Obviously, this varies depending on the job you acquire and the location of the property but it’s a good starting average to get you prepared.
4. Living Costs for One
As the cost of living is more affordable, many people have decided to move from London to Manchester. So why not join them? If you decide to treat yourself to a meal out, the average price in Manchester is £12 according to Numbeo, with a well-deserved pint averaging at £4.13. If you’re looking to travel short distances, a one-way ticket costs on average £2.80 for most local transportation.
Numbeo also calculated that the average monthly cost for one person living in Manchester is £637.65 (excluding rent). As a brief comparison, to maintain the same standard of living with £4,700 in London, you would only need £3,055 in Manchester. This difference in costs can really help you save for the future.
5. Travelling Around Manchester is Easy
Whenever you’re moving somewhere alone, it’s important to get to know the area. It can be nerve-wracking at first, the thought of getting lost always there. But it’s doesn’t have to be difficult! The trams are a popular and affordable form of transport in Manchester, taking you through the city and nearby suburbs.
According to Numbeo, the average cost for a monthly transportation pass in Manchester is £65.22. With 2 main train stations, there’s easy access to surrounding cities like London, with at least 3 trains running every hour. Perfect for commuters, the M6 is easily accessible and Manchester Airport is close by for those wishing to travel further.
6. The Best Places to Meet New People
From a pamper day at local health lounges to solo trips to Manchester Museum, there’s a range of activities to try when you move to Manchester alone. Solo trips are a great way to explore the area, but it’s also important to interact with others to completely settle in (I know, sounds terrifying but bear with me). Manchester is a hub of entertainment with plenty of opportunities to make new friends. Obviously being a football fan would give you an easy start, but if not, there are plenty more activities to try.
With over 200 languages spoken in Manchester, it’s a diverse and multicultural city catering to all personality types. The Whitworth Art Gallery was Art Fund’s Museum of the Year in 2015 making it perfect to connect with fellow art lovers. If you still haven’t found a kindred spirit, the Northern Quarter is bursting with artistic talent.
There are a number of vintage clothing and record shops to explore and the music scene is iconic with multiple festivals to be introduced to. The Frog and Bucket Comedy Club is great for a drink and a laugh, whilst the Old Trafford Stadium is where you’ll find all the football fans. Never be afraid to venture out and introduce yourself. As much as alone time is vital, the best way to settle in is to get out!
Saving Money on Your Move to Manchester
Now you know that moving to Manchester alone isn’t as scary as it may seem, why not dive straight in and fill out our quick and easy form to get connected with up to 6 local removal companies near you. We only work with the most trusted and verified companies, ensuring your move is as stress-free and efficient as possible!
