Roof Over Your Head, Food On The Table, Clothes On Your Back, At What Cost?

Food, water, clothing, sleep, breathing, and shelter are necessities for survival. Looking at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs this is the lowest level.

They are the foundation of human survival, but times have changed. I would argue that money to some degree needs to be included to this lowest level. Some kind of finance is crucial to survive in today’s modern world.

Besides sleeping and breathing it’s difficult for an independent adult let alone a family man to provide food, water, clothing, and shelter without any involvement of money. I’m not talking about eating Michelin-star food, wearing the finest clothes, or sleeping at the Ritz hotel. I’m saying to cover the basics with some dignity and decent living standards for your loved ones.

“The basics of living cost a fair amount in the UK, with shelter being the highest of them all.”

Let’s look at the cost of shelter aka housing. The one place you and your family should feel a sense of safety. The comfort and security of living in a standard home comes at a cost which varies across the regions. What does that look like for a family of four wanting to rent in the UK?

Three Bedroom House – Detached / Semi / Terraced – within 5 miles from the City Centre

(Jan 2024 Prices)

Northern Ireland – Scotland – Northeast – Northwest – Yorkshire – Wales

West Midlands – East Midlands – Southwest – East Anglia – Southeast – London

Northern Ireland

Living in Northern Ireland offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Belfast to the serene countryside of County Antrim, there’s something for everyone.

Scotland

Scots are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it easy to feel a sense of belonging. The diverse cities, including Edinburgh and Glasgow, offer a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities, with an abundance of cultural events, festivals, and world-class museums.

Northeast

Known for its friendly communities and distinctive Geordie accent. Cities like Newcastle and Sunderland boast a lively atmosphere, with a mix of modern amenities and historic architecture. Residents can enjoy diverse cultural experiences, from the iconic Angel of the North to the dynamic arts scene.

Northwest

The Northwest boasts stunning natural beauty, including the Lake District, one of the country’s most breathtaking national parks. Residents can enjoy a mix of urban excitement and tranquil countryside, with easy access to both.

Yorkshire & The Humber

Characterised by its stunning countryside, including the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales and the coastal beauty of places like Scarborough. The region hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its history and traditions. Whether you prefer the tranquillity of rural life or the excitement of urban living, Yorkshire & The Humber offers a well-balanced and enriching lifestyle.

Wales

From the rugged mountains of Snowdonia to the serene beaches along the Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The Welsh people take pride in their language, traditions, and folk music, creating a distinct cultural identity. If you enjoy spirited rugby matches the warm hospitality, it might be the place for you.

West Midlands

Cities like Birmingham are known for their cultural diversity and thriving arts scene, providing an exciting urban atmosphere with bustling markets, contemporary architecture, and a plethora of dining options. Full of excellent transportation links, residents can easily explore both the metropolitan and rural facets of the region.

East Midlands

Nature enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of the Peak District National Park, while those seeking urban experiences can enjoy the bustling cities of Nottingham, Leicester, and Derby. The East Midlands is home to a variety of cultural events, festivals, and traditional markets. You’ll get a sense of community here.

Southwest

Coastal towns like St Ives and Falmouth in Cornwall attract residents and visitors alike with their sandy beaches and vibrant arts scenes. The Southwest is also home to the historic city of Bath, known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture. The climate is generally mild, with relatively warmer winters compared to other parts of the UK.

East Anglia

Residents of East Anglia enjoy a slower pace of life, with a strong sense of community and a close connection to the region’s agricultural roots. The area’s historic landmarks, such as Cambridge’s renowned universities and the medieval architecture of Norwich, add cultural depth to everyday life. Overall, living in East Anglia offers a harmonious blend of rural charm and cultural richness.

Southeast

The famous City of Oxford offers a high quality of life with a blend of traditional and modern elements. The city’s green spaces, such as the Botanic Garden and Christ Church Meadow, offer peaceful retreats for residents. On the other hand, the cultural vibrancy of Brighton to the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds means living in the Southeast UK offers a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.

London

The marvellous capital of the United Kingdom what can you expect? London’s multicultural atmosphere is reflected in its diverse 32 boroughs, each with its own unique character and charm. The city’s extensive public transportation system makes it easy to explore everything from the trendy streets of Shoreditch to the classical elegance of Kensington. The saying is still true to this day “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life” but it will cost you a pretty penny to live here.

Choosing where to settle down will impact your family’s life it’s your finances but their future. Ensure the price of a rental isn’t the only factor. It’s ideal to do your research on the area even if you like the home, renting or buying still look at the finer details. Note down things like transport links, schools, hospitals, nearest airports, crime rates and even entertainment (bars, restaurants, and cinemas). Maybe take a walk around the area and speak to the neighbours, get a sense of the place you’ll potentially be housing your family.

They say the three most important decisions a man could ever make are, what he does for a living, who he marries and where he lives. Let that be food for thought.

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