Why move to Hampshire? | Lets explore now. Hampshire offers a perfect balance of rural beauty, coastal charm, and modern convenience. From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the picturesque New Forest and vibrant coastal towns, Hampshire provides a diverse range of lifestyles to suit every preference.
One of the greatest things about living in Hampshire is the variety of experiences waiting to be explored. Whether it’s discovering the rich history of Winchester, enjoying waterside living in Portsmouth and Southampton, or finding tranquillity in one of the many charming villages, there is always something new to see and do. With historic castles, scenic countryside walks, and bustling market towns, Hampshire blends tradition with contemporary living.
Hampshire is also an economic hub, offering strong career prospects across various industries, including technology, finance, and maritime sectors. Its excellent transport links provide easy access to London, making it an attractive location for commuters seeking a better quality of life.
With outstanding schools, cultural attractions, and an exceptional standard of living, Hampshire is a desirable destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or a lifestyle change, this county offers a welcoming and dynamic place to call home.
Why Move to Hampshire | What to Expect
Hampshire offers a unique blend of countryside tranquillity, coastal beauty, and vibrant town life. From historic cities like Winchester and Portsmouth to picturesque villages and modern developments, the county provides a variety of lifestyles to suit different preferences.
Hampshire is home to a diverse and welcoming community, with a strong sense of heritage and culture. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Southampton’s bustling waterfront or the peaceful setting of the New Forest, there is something for everyone. The county is known for its excellent restaurants, independent shops, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, ensuring plenty to see and do year-round.
With outstanding transport links, including direct rail connections to London and easy access to major motorways, commuting and travel are convenient. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, a thriving business hub, or a scenic coastal retreat, Hampshire offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.
Housing in Hampshire: Exploring Your Options
Hampshire’s property market offers a diverse selection of homes, catering to various budgets and lifestyles. From charming thatched cottages in rural villages to modern waterfront apartments in Southampton and Portsmouth, the county provides a mix of historic and contemporary housing options.
As of 2024, the average house price in Hampshire is around £375,000, though this varies depending on location. Prime areas such as Winchester and Farnham command higher prices, while more affordable options can be found in Aldershot, Basingstoke, and Andover. Renting is also a popular choice, particularly in university towns like Southampton and Portsmouth, where many students and professionals opt for shared accommodation.
New developments in Whiteley, Eastleigh, and Bordon provide modern housing with excellent amenities, often at more competitive prices than city centre locations. Whether you’re looking for a family home, a countryside retreat, or a commuter-friendly property, Hampshire offers a strong and varied housing market.
Why Move to Hampshire | Education in Hampshire: A Hub of Learning
Hampshire is home to a strong network of highly regarded schools, colleges, and universities, making it an excellent choice for families and students alike. The county offers a mix of outstanding primary and secondary schools, including top-performing grammar and independent schools such as Peter Symonds College in Winchester, Portsmouth Grammar School, and King Edward VI School in Southampton.
For higher education, Hampshire boasts respected universities, including the University of Southampton, the University of Portsmouth, and the University of Winchester, all offering a wide range of academic and vocational courses. These institutions provide excellent research opportunities, strong industry links, and vibrant student communities.
Whether you’re looking for exceptional schooling for your children or world-class university education, Hampshire provides a supportive and high-quality learning environment for all ages.
Why Move to Hampshire | Employment Opportunities
Hampshire offers a strong and diverse job market, making it an attractive place to live and work. The county is home to major business hubs in cities such as Southampton, Portsmouth, and Basingstoke, with thriving industries in technology, finance, aerospace, and maritime sectors.
Southampton and Portsmouth are key economic centres, supporting careers in shipping, logistics, and marine engineering, while Basingstoke and Farnborough have become hotspots for technology and defence companies, with major employers like IBM and QinetiQ. Winchester, as the county’s historic capital, also offers roles in public services, education, and tourism.
For those in the retail and hospitality sectors, large shopping centres like Westquay in Southampton and Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth provide numerous employment opportunities. Additionally, Hampshire has a strong network of small businesses and start-ups, creating a dynamic and growing job market.
Whether you’re looking for a career in an established industry or an opportunity with an emerging business, Hampshire provides a wealth of employment prospects in a variety of fields.
Mortgage Brokers in Hampshire: Securing a Home
Hampshire’s property market is diverse, and expert advice from mortgage brokers can be invaluable in securing the best financing options. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a buy-to-let investor, or looking to remortgage, working with a Hampshire-based broker can help you navigate the process with ease.
Local mortgage brokers have in-depth knowledge of the county’s housing market, ensuring you find the right mortgage deal suited to your financial situation. From Winchester’s historic homes to new developments in Eastleigh and Whiteley, a broker can help you access the most competitive rates and streamline the application process.
With the support of a Hampshire mortgage expert, securing a home in this sought-after location becomes a smoother and more manageable experience.
Why Hampshire is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Moving to Hampshire offers a balanced lifestyle with its blend of historic charm, modern conveniences, and stunning natural surroundings. The county provides excellent career opportunities, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to settle.
Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, Hampshire has something for everyone. With a diverse property market, ranging from countryside retreats to vibrant city living, and strong transport links to London and the South Coast, it’s a fantastic place to live, work, and thrive.
If you’re considering a move, explore our mortgage guides for insights on securing the best mortgage deals in Hampshire. With the right planning and expert guidance, finding your perfect home in this sought-after county can become a reality.
If you’re based in Hampshire and looking for a later-life mortgage or equity release, our team is here to help.
If you like this, feel free to read our related page, Why Move to Cambridgeshire.
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FAQ: Why Move to Hampshire
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Why do people move to Hampshire? | Hampshire offers the perfect balance of countryside calm and urban convenience. With easy access to London, beautiful coastal towns, and strong transport links, it’s ideal for families, professionals, and retirees alike. |
| 2. Is Hampshire a good place to buy property? | Yes. Hampshire has a strong and stable property market, with sought-after areas like Winchester, Basingstoke, and Southampton offering excellent long-term value. Its mix of rural homes and modern developments appeals to a wide range of buyers. |
| 3. What is the cost of living like in Hampshire? | While some areas such as Winchester are on the premium side, many Hampshire towns remain more affordable than London or Surrey. Residents enjoy high living standards with better space and value for money. |
| 4. Are there good schools in Hampshire? | Absolutely. Hampshire boasts some of the UK’s top-rated schools, including both independent and state options. Winchester College and Peter Symonds College are just two examples of its educational excellence. |
| 5. What are the transport links like? | Hampshire has outstanding transport links. Major roads like the M3, M27, and A34 connect the county to London, the South Coast, and beyond. Rail services provide fast commutes to London Waterloo and regional hubs. |
| 6. What is Hampshire famous for? | Hampshire is known for its rich heritage, stunning South Downs National Park, and coastal gems like Portsmouth and the New Forest. It’s also the birthplace of literary icons such as Jane Austen. |
| 7. Is Hampshire good for families? | Yes — the county combines safety, excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities. Towns like Fleet and Alton consistently rank among the best places to raise a family in the UK. |
| 8. Are there job opportunities in Hampshire? | Hampshire’s economy is diverse, with opportunities in tech, maritime, defence, healthcare, and education. Southampton and Basingstoke are strong employment centres with thriving business communities. |
| 9. What leisure and lifestyle options are there? | From coastal sailing in Portsmouth to hiking the South Downs or shopping in Winchester, Hampshire offers a balanced, active lifestyle with plenty of leisure, dining, and cultural activities. |
| 10. Why choose a mortgage adviser in Hampshire? | Local mortgage advisers understand the Hampshire property market and can help you secure the best deal for your situation — whether you’re buying a home, remortgaging, or investing in buy-to-let property. Use Connect Experts to find an adviser near you. |