Devon is a beautiful county in South West England known for its stunning coastline, rolling countryside, and picturesque towns and villages. Moving to Devon can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to prepare yourself properly before you move. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moving to Devon – from finding a place to live to settling into your new community. So, let’s dive into seven important things you’ll need to consider when moving to Devon.
1 – The Livable Locations in Devon
There are plenty of options for finding a place to live in Devon. Some of the most popular areas to live in include Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay and the towns and villages along the coast. Each region has unique characteristics, so it’s essential to research and determine which is suitable for your personal preferences.
Exeter is an energetic and historic city home to a prosperous university, a bustling city centre, and plenty of delightful green spaces. Plymouth is another large city in Devon known for its naval past and exquisite waterfront. Torquay is a well-known coastal town famous for its warm climate, while the townlets and villages along the coast offer a quieter, more rustic lifestyle.
2 – Your Budget & Cost of Living
The cost of living in Devon varies greatly depending on where you’ve chosen to live and your lifestyle. Generally speaking, the cost of living in Devon is lower than in London and other major cities in the UK. However, the cost of housing can be high, particularly in desirable areas like Exeter and the coastal towns such as Salcombe.
Other expenses to consider are transportation, food, and utilities. Public transportation in Devon is relatively affordable in the city, and plenty of cycling and walking options exist for daily use.
3 – The Climate
Devon is known for its mild and temperate climate, with moderately warm summers and gentle winters. However, the weather can be a temperamental mistress, particularly in coastal areas where the wind can bellow into a frightening strength.
In general, the further south you go in Devon, the milder the climate becomes. Coastal zones tend to be cooler than inland areas, even during the hottest of summer months when tranquil sea breezes ease the temperatures. It will be easy enough to travel between the coastal towns, moors and countryside depending on your comfort levels.
4 – Employment
If you’re planning to move to Devon, starting your job search before you arrive is a good idea. Devon has a diverse economy centred around tourism, agriculture and the creative industries. There are also several large employers in the area, including the Met Office, the University of Exeter, and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, which should cover most job types unless you work in a very specialised career field. Many online job boards and recruitment agencies specialise in the Devon area, and internet connectivity for the county are well-set up for remote working. Due to its exceptional natural beauty and interesting collection of fauna and flora, Devon is also a prime location within the UK to work in forestry and nature-oriented roles.
5 – Educational Facilities
Devon has many excellent schools for both primary and secondary levels and several independent schools. If you have kids, it’s vital to research schools in the area you’re planning to move to and ensure they have the resources and facilities your child needs.
The University of Exeter is one of the UK’s largest and most respected universities. It is known for its research departments specialising in climate change, renewable energy, and health sciences. If you’re planning to pursue further education, Exeter is an excellent initial area to start.
6 – Your Healthcare Options
The National Health Service (NHS) provides healthcare to residents of Devon, with plenty of hospitals, clinics and general practitioner practices in the area. Registering with a GP as soon as possible after you arrive in Devon is vital so that you have quality access to healthcare if needed. If you are moving over to Devon due to a job opportunity, check if your company provides healthcare options as part of your package deal when you move over. Take a look at your health insurance info and connect with healthcare facilities close to the area of Devon you’re moving to.
7 – Transportation
Devon has a relatively good transportation network, with several major roads and highways connecting the various towns.
For those looking to lower their carbon footprints, the railways are a delightfully scenic way to travel around the county. Many picturesque villages and market towns link to each other by rail, and you can find mainline stations in the larger towns and cities. The railway has uncompromised coastline views, primarily via the English Riviera and Dartmoor.
The bus service is extensive across Devon, with plenty of chances to link to more minor routes. Visit the Devon County Council website to check the full extent of bus routes. National Express and Megabus will help you reach the rest of the major UK towns and cities. Cycling is a fantastic way to catch Devon at its best while providing easy access to some of the best of the county’s natural heritage.
Moving to a new area can be stressful, but staying positive throughout the process is essential. Focus on all the exciting and unique adventures your home will bring and the new memories you’ll make there.
Packing your home in one week may seem daunting, but with our help and large storage units to make use of while you settle into your fresh new home, your journey can be a painless one.
Contact us today to get your moving solutions underway!
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