Edinburgh

A medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town sit under the castle, with hills, beaches and the Water of Leith all within city limits. Sandstone tenements are the typical home, and the festivals each August transform the centre.

The city is compact and well served by buses and the tram to the airport. Waverley station offers fast trains to Glasgow and London, and most residents walk or bus to work.

In 2026 the median sale price is about £340K, roughly £5,100 per square metre, and a typical 2-bedroom rental costs about £1,700 a month. Prices are up 4.1% on a year ago and homes take around 24 days to sell, which points to strong demand.

Scottish property is sold under a different system, with closing dates and offers over a published price, so homes often sell above asking. Short-term lets require a licence in Edinburgh, which is relevant for investors.