Living in York

Community life in York is characterised by a strong civic pride and an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. Residents are often involved in local events, volunteering, and supporting neighbourhood initiatives. The city hosts several large festivals each year, notably the York Literature Festival, JORVIK Viking Festival, and York Food & Drink Festival.

Regular markets interact with historic squares, and there are community centres, library hubs, and youth clubs in many districts. Outdoor lifestyle is encouraged by the many parks, ancient city walls, and river walks – Rowntree Park and Museum Gardens are particularly popular for relaxation and social gatherings.

Many residents embrace sustainable living through cycling or supporting local produce at the Shambles Market. Overall, the city offers numerous ways to get involved and fosters a strong sense of belonging among both newcomers and established locals.

Crime rates in York are generally lower than the national average for cities of similar size, making it widely regarded as a safe place to live and work. The city centre and popular tourist areas are well-patrolled by the local police, and there are visible community safety officers, particularly during busy periods.

Suburbs such as Fulford, Heworth, and Bishopthorpe are perceived as especially safe with strong neighbourhood watch schemes in place. While, as with any urban area, there are occasional incidents, overall crime tends to be opportunistic rather than targeted or violent. York’s local authorities and police host regular community safety meetings, and investment in CCTV and preventative initiatives continues to contribute to York’s reputation for security.

Parking in York can be a challenge, particularly in the city centre where demand is high due to tourism and limited space within the medieval streets. Residents in central zones often rely on permit schemes, while pay-and-display spaces and multi-storey car parks are available but can fill quickly during peak times. The city’s Park and Ride service is popular and helps alleviate congestion by offering large car parks on the city outskirts, linked to frequent buses into town.

York is well connected by road, including the A64 (toward Leeds and Scarborough) and easy access to the A19 and A59 for regional travel. Traffic congestion can occur during rush hours, especially on routes radiating from the centre, but continued investment aims to improve flow. The historic nature of York means narrow streets and restricted vehicular access in some central zones.

• Leeds – approx. 40 minutes via A64 (25 miles)
• Harrogate – approx. 40 minutes via A59 (21 miles)
• Hull – approx. 1 hour via A1079/A64 (39 miles)
• Scarborough – approx. 1 hour 10 minutes via A64 (42 miles)

York is well known for its diverse food scene, historical pubs, and lively yet relaxed nightlife. The city features an exciting mix of independent restaurants, ranging from modern British and Italian bistros to renowned tearooms like Bettys Café Tea Rooms and local favourites in The Shambles Market Food Court.

Pubs are a highlight of York’s social life, with traditional spots like The Guy Fawkes Inn and The House of Trembling Madness offering atmospheric settings and craft ales. Cafés and bakeries abound in the centre and many suburbs.

The nightlife in York is varied and caters to different tastes: there are quirky cocktail bars and historic taverns as well as a handful of clubs, notably on Rougier Street and Micklegate. The city also boasts several theatres, including York Theatre Royal and Grand Opera House, hosting regular live performances and touring shows. Overall, the social scene is lively but not overwhelming, balancing vibrant student life with family-friendly options and quieter venues.

School quality: York boasts high-performing primary and secondary schools across the city, with several rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Parks and green space: Rowntree Park, West Bank Park, and Hull Road Park offer playgrounds, open lawns, and family events.

Childcare: Wide range of nurseries, playgroups, and after-school clubs, accessible in most neighbourhoods.

Safety: Low crime rates and strong neighbourhood policing contribute to peace of mind.

Family activities: Attractions like the National Railway Museum, York Maze, and JORVIK Viking Centre, as well as annual festivals, provide plenty of options for all ages.

York’s walkable centre, strong community ethos, and variety of leisure facilities all underline its reputation as a family friendly city.

York is widely considered a pet-friendly city, benefiting from an abundance of open spaces for dog walking, including the Knavesmire, Hob Moor, Clifton Ings, and the riverside paths along the Ouse. Many suburban parks feature dedicated dog exercise areas, and there is easy access to countryside walking trails around the city’s outskirts.

Local amenities for pet owners include several reputable veterinary practices, pet stores, and grooming salons. Numerous pubs and cafés welcome dogs in outdoor (and sometimes indoor) seating areas, and many rental properties accept pets, especially in family-friendly districts. Responsible pet ownership is the norm across most York neighbourhoods.

York stands out as one of the north’s best-connected cities, making it a desirable location for commuters, students, and visitors alike. The city’s railway station is on the main East Coast Main Line, with frequent direct services linking York to key destinations.

• York to London King's Cross: Approx. 2 hours direct
• York to Leeds: Approx. 25 minutes
• York to Manchester Piccadilly: Around 1 hour 25 minutes
• York to Newcastle: Around 1 hour

The city sits at the junction of major roadways, including the A64, which provides easy access east towards Scarborough and west to Leeds and the A1(M) motorway. There are also efficient bus routes connecting the suburbs and surrounding villages to the centre. York does not have its own airport, but Leeds Bradford Airport is around 30 miles away, accessible in roughly 50 minutes by car.

The compact city centre and extensive cycle paths support sustainable, car-free travel for residents and visitors. Park and Ride schemes from six locations offer a popular way to access the centre without parking hassles.

York’s educational landscape is well respected, offering a range of options from highly regarded state schools to independent institutions and world-class universities.

Primary Schools:

• St Wilfrid's Catholic Primary School: Recognised for its academic achievements and inclusive environment. Ofsted (2017): Good.
• Clifton Green Primary School: Popular with local families, praised for its broad curriculum. Ofsted (2022): Good.
• Knavesmire Primary School: Known for creative teaching approaches and a vibrant community. Ofsted (2019): Good.
• Scarcroft Primary School: Close to the city centre and frequently commended for its support systems. Ofsted (2018): Outstanding.

Secondary Schools:

• Fulford School: Consistently one of the top performing secondaries, attracts a broad intake. Ofsted (2016): Outstanding.
• Millthorpe School: Centrally located, well known for balanced academic and extracurricular offerings. Ofsted (2017): Good.
• All Saints RC School: Popular with families seeking a faith-based education and strong results. Ofsted (2016): Outstanding.
• Archbishop Holgate's School: Long history and a reputation for excellent pastoral care and results. Ofsted (2021): Outstanding.

Colleges and Further Education:

• York College: The main provider of post-16 education, offering a wide range of A-levels, BTECs, apprenticeships, and adult courses. Ofsted (2019): Good.

Universities:

• University of York: A member of the Russell Group, well regarded for its academic excellence and research strength.
• York St John University: A modern university offering a variety of specialist courses, particularly in arts, business, and education.

The quality and diversity of schools in York make it a strong choice for families prioritising education.