Why Move to County Down? | County Down is a diverse and picturesque region in Northern Ireland, blending rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and modern amenities. From the vibrant city of Bangor to charming market towns such as Newry, Downpatrick, and Newcastle, the county offers a high quality of life for both residents and visitors.
A defining feature of County Down is its breathtaking scenery and deep-rooted heritage. Whether exploring the majestic Mourne Mountains, enjoying the coastal beauty of Strangford Lough, or visiting historic sites like Castle Ward and Inch Abbey, the county provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. Picturesque villages such as Hillsborough and Rostrevor offer a perfect balance between tranquil countryside living and vibrant community life.
County Down has a strong and evolving economy, with key industries including agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and technology. The county is home to major employers in manufacturing, food production, and retail, with growing opportunities in hospitality and digital sectors. With excellent transport links, including major roads such as the A1 and A24, rail connections to Belfast and Dublin, and access to Belfast City and Belfast International Airports, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient.
With highly regarded schools, a thriving economy, and a welcoming community, County Down is an outstanding place to call home. Whether you’re looking for career opportunities, quality education, or a lifestyle that embraces natural beauty and modern convenience, this county has something for everyone.
Why Move to County Down | What to Expect
County Down offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and modern convenience, making it an exceptional place to live. From the vibrant city of Bangor to the charming market towns of Newry, Downpatrick, and Newcastle, the county provides diverse lifestyles to suit all preferences.
County Down is known for its welcoming communities, deep cultural roots, and relaxed pace of life. Whether you enjoy exploring the majestic Mourne Mountains, the coastal beauty of Strangford Lough, or the historical sites of Castle Ward and Inch Abbey, there is something for everyone. The county also boasts thriving market towns, independent shops, artisan food markets, and cultural attractions, offering a perfect balance of rural charm and modern amenities.
With excellent transport links, including major roads such as the A1 and A24, rail connections to Belfast and Dublin, and access to Belfast City and Belfast International Airports, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, a countryside retreat, or career opportunities in a growing economy, County Down offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community.
Why Move to County Down | Housing in County Down: Exploring Your Options
County Down’s property market offers a diverse range of homes to suit different budgets and lifestyles. From charming period cottages in historic towns like Hillsborough and Downpatrick to modern developments in Bangor, Newry, and Newcastle, the county provides a mix of traditional and contemporary housing options.
As of 2024, the average house price in County Down is around £240,000, though prices vary by location. Desirable areas such as Holywood, Comber, and Warrenpoint tend to command higher property values due to their coastal views, excellent schools, and strong community appeal. Meanwhile, more affordable housing can be found in areas like Banbridge, Ballynahinch, and Kilkeel, offering great value for buyers and renters alike.
New developments in locations such as Saintfield, Carryduff, and Dromore provide modern housing with excellent amenities at competitive prices. Renting is also a popular choice, particularly in well-connected areas near employment hubs and universities, making it ideal for professionals, students, and families. Whether you’re looking for a countryside retreat, a family home, or a smart investment opportunity, County Down offers a strong and varied housing market.
Why Move to County Down | Education in County Down: A Centre of Learning
County Down offers a high-quality and diverse education system, making it an excellent choice for families and students. The county is home to well-regarded primary and secondary schools, including comprehensive, grammar, and independent institutions such as Bangor Grammar School, Down High School in Downpatrick, and Assumption Grammar School in Ballynahinch.
For higher education, County Down benefits from its proximity to Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, both of which offer renowned courses in business, engineering, healthcare, and the sciences. These universities have strong industry connections and provide excellent career prospects for graduates.
Further education is well supported by colleges such as South Eastern Regional College (SERC), Southern Regional College, and Belfast Met, which specialise in vocational training, apprenticeships, and professional development. Specialist areas include IT, construction, hospitality, and creative industries, equipping students with practical skills for today’s evolving job market.
Whether you’re seeking outstanding schooling, university education, or career-focused training, County Down provides a well-rounded and dynamic learning environment, helping students of all ages achieve their ambitions.
Why Move to County Down | Employment Opportunities
County Down offers a diverse and expanding job market, making it an excellent place to live and work. The county’s economy spans key industries, including tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, and technology, providing a wide range of career opportunities.
Key Employment Sectors in County Down
- Tourism & Hospitality – With attractions like the Mourne Mountains, Strangford Lough, and Newcastle’s coastline, the tourism industry provides jobs in hotels, restaurants, and outdoor adventure businesses.
- Manufacturing & Engineering – The county is home to advanced manufacturing companies in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and precision engineering, with major employers in Bangor, Newry, and Downpatrick.
- Agriculture & Food Production – County Down has a strong agricultural sector, specialising in dairy farming, arable crops, and food processing, with leading companies supplying markets across the UK and beyond.
- Renewable Energy – Wind farms and sustainable energy projects along the coast and rural areas provide careers in engineering, environmental management, and infrastructure development.
- Technology & Business Services – The county benefits from its proximity to Belfast’s growing digital and fintech sector, creating job opportunities in software development, cybersecurity, and finance.
- Education & Healthcare – County Down has a strong public services sector, with careers in teaching, social care, and healthcare at key facilities such as Ulster Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital.
With its affordable living, growing economy, and excellent transport links to Belfast, Dublin, and beyond, County Down is an ideal location for professionals, families, and entrepreneurs looking for a thriving and well-connected place to live.
Mortgage Brokers in County Down: Securing a Home
County Down’s property market offers a diverse range of opportunities, and expert guidance from mortgage brokers can be invaluable in securing the best financing options. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a buy-to-let investor, or looking to remortgage, working with a local broker can simplify the process and help you access the most competitive deals.
County Down-based mortgage brokers have extensive knowledge of the local housing market, ensuring you find a mortgage that suits your financial situation. Whether you’re purchasing a coastal home in Bangor, a countryside retreat in the Mourne Mountains, a family property in Newry or Downpatrick, or a more affordable option in Banbridge or Kilkeel, a broker can provide tailored advice and access to exclusive mortgage rates.
With expert support, securing a home in this well-connected and desirable county becomes a smoother and more efficient process, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect property.
Why County Down is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Moving to County Down offers the ideal combination of stunning natural landscapes, rich heritage, and modern convenience, making it a fantastic place to live. With strong career opportunities, highly regarded schools, and a welcoming community, the county appeals to professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, County Down has something for everyone. The property market is diverse, from coastal homes in Bangor to spacious family properties in Newry, Downpatrick, and Holywood. For those seeking a more peaceful lifestyle, charming villages such as Hillsborough, Rostrevor, and Castlewellan offer rural tranquillity while remaining well-connected to larger towns and cities. With excellent transport links, including major roads like the A1 and A24, direct rail services to Belfast and Dublin, and access to Belfast City and Belfast International Airports, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient.
If you are considering a move, explore our mortgage guides for insights on securing the best mortgage deals in County Down. With expert advice and careful planning, finding your ideal home in this thriving and well-connected county can become a reality.
