Why Move to Wiltshire? | Wiltshire is an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers seeking the perfect mix of countryside charm, rich heritage, and modern convenience. Located in South West England, Wiltshire offers a balanced lifestyle with stunning natural landscapes, vibrant market towns, and excellent transport links—making it ideal for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
A County Steeped in History and Beauty
Wiltshire is best known for its world-famous landmarks like Stonehenge and Avebury, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But beyond the history, Wiltshire delivers in natural beauty too. From the rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs AONB to the picturesque walking trails of Salisbury Plain, the county is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Property Market Insights
As of early 2025, the average house price in Wiltshire stands at approximately £325,000—offering better value than many neighbouring counties like Berkshire or Oxfordshire while still providing a high standard of living. Desirable towns such as Bradford-on-Avon, Marlborough, and Salisbury offer everything from Georgian townhouses to countryside cottages and modern developments.
New-build communities in areas like Chippenham, Royal Wootton Bassett, and Trowbridge are also attracting families and first-time buyers with competitive pricing and great local amenities.
Why Move to Wiltshire | Schools and Education
Wiltshire is a strong contender for families prioritising education. The county boasts several Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ schools, including:
South Wilts Grammar School (Salisbury)
St John’s Marlborough
Devizes School
Dauntsey’s School (independent, West Lavington)
For further education, Wiltshire College & University Centre has campuses in Salisbury, Chippenham, Trowbridge, and Lackham, offering a wide range of vocational and academic courses. The University of Bath and University of Bristol are also within commuting distance.
Amenities and Family-Friendly Living
Wiltshire offers excellent amenities that cater to modern family life. Market towns like Devizes, Calne, and Malmesbury feature weekly farmers’ markets, boutique shops, and cosy cafés, while Swindon provides larger retail options including Designer Outlet Swindon and Orbital Shopping Park.
Families enjoy access to leisure centres, swimming pools, and green spaces like Lydiard Park and Longleat Safari Park. Community life thrives through local festivals, theatres, and sports clubs—making it easy to get involved and feel at home.
Why Move to Wiltshire | Transport, Employment and Economy
Wiltshire is well-connected with major routes such as the M4 motorway and A303, offering easy travel to London, Bristol, Bath, and the South Coast. Rail links are equally strong: you can reach London Paddington from Swindon in around 55 minutes, and from Salisbury to Waterloo in just over 90 minutes.
This makes Wiltshire a smart choice for commuters who want countryside living without sacrificing access to the city.
Healthcare and Education
Wiltshire’s growing population supports a robust healthcare sector, including Great Western Hospital in Swindon, Salisbury District Hospital, and numerous private clinics and care homes. The education sector is also a major employer. Wiltshire Council, primary and secondary schools, and further education colleges such as Wiltshire College & University Centre create teaching, administrative, and support roles across the county.
Tourism and Heritage
Wiltshire is famous for its iconic attractions, such as Stonehenge, Avebury, Longleat, and Salisbury Cathedral, which draw millions of visitors annually. These attractions support a vibrant hospitality sector, with hotels, restaurants, event venues, and tour operators offering a wide range of employment opportunities.
Business and Innovation Support
Wiltshire actively supports entrepreneurship and innovation through initiatives like the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub, which offers resources and funding support to local businesses. Business parks and enterprise zones—such as Porton Science Park and Castledown Business Park—are home to cutting-edge companies in life sciences, biotech, and professional services.
Why Move to Wiltshire | Prehistoric and Archaeological Significance
Wiltshire holds exceptional historical and archaeological value, featuring some of the UK’s most iconic prehistoric landmarks. Stonehenge, dating back over 4,000 years, stands out for its astronomical alignment and enduring cultural significance. Avebury, part of the same UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a larger stone circle and an adjoining village, reflecting ancient ceremonial practices. Silbury Hill, Europe’s largest man-made mound, and the West Kennet Long Barrow offer vital insight into early religious and burial customs. These remarkable sites reflect the area’s Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age importance, revealing evidence of human settlement and advanced early engineering.
Beyond its archaeological heritage, Wiltshire offers a mix of natural beauty, military connections, and cultural attractions. Salisbury Plain serves both as a military training ground and a chalk grassland teeming with rare wildlife. The Cranborne Chase and North Wessex Downs, designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, provide scenic walks and ancient woodlands. Historic towns like Salisbury, with its renowned cathedral, Lacock’s preserved medieval charm, and Marlborough’s historic high street enrich the county’s appeal. Wiltshire also supports active community life through arts festivals, historical reenactments, and local museums.
Why Move to Wiltshire | Employment Opportunities
Wiltshire offers a thriving and diverse job market, making it an attractive place to live and work..
Key Employment Sectors
Defence and Aerospace Wiltshire is a national hub for defence and aerospace, primarily due to the presence of major military establishments. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has a strong presence in towns like Salisbury, Warminster, and Corsham, while MOD Lyneham and MOD Boscombe Down offer employment in logistics, engineering, IT, and project management. The county also supports private sector defence contractors and technology firms working alongside the MOD.
Technology and Cybersecurity
With its growing reputation as a tech corridor, particularly around Corsham, Wiltshire has seen a surge in demand for skilled professionals in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and cloud computing. The Corsham area, in particular, is home to high-tech business parks and government data centres, creating a hotspot for innovation and IT-based careers.
Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
Wiltshire is home to a number of advanced manufacturing firms, producing everything from high-performance materials to precision components. Swindon, a former automotive manufacturing stronghold, is pivoting toward new forms of production and sustainability-focused engineering, with a growing number of green technology firms setting up operations in the region.
Retail and Distribution
With its central location and direct access to major road networks like the M4 and A303, Wiltshire has become a key logistics and distribution centre. Major national retailers and couriers operate from distribution hubs in Swindon and Chippenham, offering roles in supply chain management, warehousing, and transport.
Securing a Home in Wiltshire | Expert Mortgage Advice
Whether you’re moving to Wiltshire for its quality of life, excellent schools, or career opportunities, working with a local mortgage broker can make your move much smoother. Brokers based in Wiltshire understand the unique dynamics of the local property market and can help secure competitive deals whether you’re a first-time buyer, home mover, or buy-to-let investor.
From thatched cottages in Lacock to modern homes in Chippenham, we’ll help you navigate your mortgage options confidently and clearly.
Thinking of Moving to Wiltshire?
Wiltshire is more than just a beautiful place—it’s a place to grow, thrive, and enjoy life at your own pace. With excellent schools, family-friendly amenities, and a varied property market, now is a great time to explore what this remarkable county has to offer.
Contact your local Wiltshire mortgage broker today to begin your home journey in one of the UK’s most enchanting counties.
Why Wiltshire is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Wiltshire is an ideal place to live, combining rural beauty, historic charm, and everyday convenience. The rolling countryside and vibrant market towns create a peaceful and scenic environment. Iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral reflect the area’s rich heritage. Families benefit from top-rated schools, large green spaces, and a strong sense of community.
Professionals value the county’s reliable transport links to London, Bristol, and nearby cities. Wiltshire’s housing market is still competitively priced when compared with much of southern England. Buyers can choose from quaint cottages to modern new-build homes. Whether you’re raising children, preparing for retirement, or seeking a better work-life balance, Wiltshire offers lasting appeal. It provides a high quality of life within a well-connected and relaxed setting.
Browse our Mortgage Brokers in Wiltshire
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