Scotland’s ‘best place to raise a family’ named and it isn’t a city – see full list

New research has revealed the areas of Scotland that are the best to raise a young family.

Deciding where to live is a major life decision that involves many different factors, especially if you have children. From schooling to affordability, it can easily become overwhelming choosing where to settle down.

Experts at price comparison site Getamover have put together a list of the top 10 destinations around the UK to move as a young family. Four are located in Scotland, with the highest-placing being East Ayrshire.

Receiving an overall rating of 69.1 out of 100, house prices in the area were found to be an average of £104,630. Meanwhile, according to the experts, the crime rate in East Ayrshire is 34 per cent lower the nationwide average.

East Ayrshire borders Dumfries and Galloway, East Renfrewshire, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, and South Lanarkshire. Among its biggest settlements are Kilmarnock, Cumnock, and Stewarton.

Meanwhile, North Lanarkshire was assigned an overall score of 67.4 out of 100 by the experts. Bordering the northeast of Glasgow, it includes many of the popular commuter towns and villages outside of the city such as Coatbridge, Airdrie, and Motherwell.

Thanks to North Lanarkshire’s close proximity to Scotland’s largest city, it is especially popular among younger families. With easy access into Glasgow, it would suit those who prioritise amenities above all else.

Coming in third place for Scotland, with a rating of 66.7, is North Ayrshire. Home to large towns such as Irvine and Kilwinning, as well as the picturesque Isle of Arran, it is known for its rich culture and history.

North Lanarkshire is a top choice amongst families looking to live by the coast, but unable to afford property in destinations such as Edinburgh or Fife. The average cost of a home for a first-time buyer is around £108,000.

Finally, the Outer Hebrides is the final area of Scotland to be named in Getamover’s research. Unlike the other regions included, the Western Isles would suit young families prioritising picturesque views and peace and quiet over access to amenities.

More information can be found on the Getamover website.

The best areas in the UK to raise a family

1. Burnley – 71.9
2. Stoke-on-Trent – 70.3
3. East Ayrshire – 69.1
4. Pendle – 68.8
5. Hyndburn – 68.4
6. Blackburn with Darwen – 67.5
7. North Lanarkshire – 67.4
8. Hartlepool – 66.8
9. North Ayrshire – 66.7
10. Outer Hebrides – 66.6

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