The Best Areas to Live in Aberdeen

Based on their amenities, unique attributes and value for money, here’s our pick of the best areas in Aberdeen for prospective first-time buyers.

1 – Rosemount & Midstocket

Situated northwest of Aberdeen’s city centre, the area around Rosemount and Midstocket is popular with young professionals and families alike.

Residents of this conveniently-located suburb are spoiled for choice when it comes to local amenities: there’s a fantastic selection of supermarkets, independent boutique shops, restaurants, and primary and secondary schools all within easy reach. Plus, this area boasts several parks and green spaces and it’s only a short distance from lively Union Street.

Housing in this area primarily consists of Victorian granite tenement blocks, as well as an increasing number of modern apartment complexes and new developments.

The current average property price in Rosemount is £183,651 (based on the average price in 2018).

2 – Ruthrieston

An affluent and desirable suburb situated in Aberdeen’s West End, homes in Ruthrieston comprise a range of property types, from one-bedroom flats to terraced houses and detached homes.

A highlight of this region is its local leisure facilities, including the Ruthrieston Outdoor Sports Centre and the Ruthrieston Community Centre. There’s also a wide selection of shops and restaurants in the area, and everything the city centre has on offer is only a short journey away.

The current average property price in Ruthrieston is £222,453 (based on the average price in 2018).

3 – Old Aberdeen

Boasting a central location near the University of Aberdeen, it’s no surprise Old Aberdeen is one of the city’s most in-demand districts. Property options here include everything from large historic homes to cosy cottage-style properties and flats brimming with character. Needless to say, this area is a popular choice for a diverse range of buyers — especially students and those looking to be close to the city centre while still enjoying the best of Aberdeen’s old-world charm.

Since it’s only a stone’s throw from the central Aberdeen and some of the city’s most notable landmarks, this attractive district tends to have one of the most competitive buying environments in Aberdeen.

The current average property price in Old Aberdeen is £155,404 (based on the average price in 2018).

4 – Bridge of Dee/Garthdee

Set along the banks of the River Dee, these two upmarket suburbs act as a tranquil home base for those who work in the city centre and for students attending Robert Gordons University, a highly-rated university situated in Garthdee.

Both districts are well-served by their local amenities, and regular, reliable public transport service makes it easy to get in and out of the city centre. Students tend to flock to this region for its proximity to RGU’s Garthdee campus, but it’s also a great place for young families. The region is surrounded by sprawling parkland and nearby Inchgarth Community Centre offers an exciting programme of year-round events and activities suited to all ages.

The current average property price in this area is £222,453 (based on the average price in 2018).

5 – Bridge of Don

Its village feel and beautiful natural setting — along with its convenient location just 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre — make this district one of the most popular options for those looking to buy property in Aberdeen. Offering excellent local amenities, an array of first-rate schools, and access to nearby parks and golf courses, Bridge of Don is ideally suited to working professionals and growing families.

Housing options in this picturesque suburb are wide-ranging, with plenty of spacious properties and new build homes on offer.

The current average property price in Bridge of Don is £236,412 (based on the average price in 2018).

6 – Cove Bay

If a quaint village located away from the hustle and bustle of city life is what you’re after, look no further than Cove Bay: a friendly seaside suburb on the southeast edge of Aberdeen. Although it has a small-town community feel, Cove Bay is well-equipped with convenient amenities — including a number of primary and secondary schools — and strong transport links to central Aberdeen. Other local facilities include a medical centre, state-of-the-art library, shopping centre, and several supermarkets.

The area offers a superb balance of stunning scenery and a laid-back village lifestyle, while regular bus services provide a quick and easy means to travel to the city centre and nearby suburbs.

The current average property price in Cove Bay is £208,948 (based on the average price in 2018).

7 – Cults & Bielside

Two affluent suburbs located just a few miles west of the city centre, Cults and Bielside are some of the most sought-after postcodes in Aberdeen. Not only are these districts situated within easy commuting distance to Aberdeen city centre, but they’re also well-serviced by a range of local amenities. Additionally, you’ll find several excellent education options in the vicinity, including Cults Academy — one of the top-performing state secondary schools in Scotland.

Properties in Cults and Bielside range from spacious granite houses to modern flats, making them an ideal locale for both commuters and families.

The current average property price in this area is £364,942 (based on the average price in 2018).