Looking to rent a property in Edinburgh? Discover the 10 best areas to live in Scotland’s capital, from elegant New Town streets and family-friendly suburbs to vibrant neighbourhoods with excellent transport links. Milards explains what makes each area special and how to find the right property for your lifestyle.
Edinburgh is one of the most desirable places to live in the UK, offering a unique combination of historic architecture, green spaces, excellent schools, independent shops, thriving restaurants and a strong sense of community. Whether you are a growing family, a professional relocating to Scotland or an investor exploring the Edinburgh property market, the city has a neighbourhood to suit almost every lifestyle.
But with so many fantastic areas to choose from, where should you begin your property search?
At Milards, we understand that finding the right home is about more than just the property itself. It is about finding the right location, community and lifestyle. Our local knowledge and personal approach help investors, landlords and tenants navigate the Edinburgh property market with greater confidence.
In this guide, we explore 10 of the best areas to live in Edinburgh, highlighting what makes each neighbourhood special and who might love living there.
1) Stockbridge – Village Charm in the Heart of Edinburgh
Best for: Professionals, couples and those who love independent businesses
Stockbridge is widely regarded as one of the best areas to live in Edinburgh, thanks to its village atmosphere, beautiful architecture and proximity to the city centre. Despite being just a short walk from central Edinburgh, it feels like a neighbourhood with its own identity.
The area is famous for its independent cafés, artisan bakeries, boutique shops and popular Sunday market. Residents also enjoy easy access to the Water of Leith walkway and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, making it an excellent choice for anyone who values outdoor space alongside city living.
Why live in Stockbridge?
· Charming Georgian architecture and attractive residential streets.
· Independent shops, restaurants, cafés and local markets.
· Walking routes along the Water of Leith.
· Convenient access to the city centre.
· A welcoming community atmosphere.
Stockbridge can be particularly appealing to renters looking for character properties and a lively local community. However, demand is often strong, and tenants should consider their budget carefully.
2) Morningside – One of the Best Areas in Edinburgh for Families
Best for: Families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle
If you are searching for the best area to live in Edinburgh with a family, Morningside deserves a place near the top of your list.
Located south of the city centre, Morningside combines a relaxed residential atmosphere with a vibrant high street. The area is known for its independent retailers, cafés, restaurants and traditional sandstone properties. Its proximity to green spaces, including the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill, makes it particularly attractive to those who enjoy walking and spending time outdoors.
Morningside also appeals to buyers looking for larger flats, traditional villas and family houses, although property types and prices vary considerably from street to street.
Why live in Morningside?
· A strong neighbourhood feel and attractive residential streets.
· Independent shops and everyday amenities along Morningside Road.
· Access to parks, walking routes and outdoor recreation.
· A range of traditional properties with period features.
· Good bus connections to central Edinburgh.
For families, it is worth researching individual school catchment areas and checking the suitability of specific properties before making a decision.
3) Bruntsfield – Independent Cafés, Green Spaces and City Living
Best for: Young professionals, couples and active city dwellers
Bruntsfield is one of Edinburgh's most appealing neighbourhoods for people who want to enjoy city life without living directly in the busiest part of the centre.
Its lively high street features independent cafés, restaurants, delicatessens and local shops, while Bruntsfield Links and The Meadows provide generous greenspaces for walking, running, picnics and meeting friends.
The area offers a mix of traditional tenement flats and larger period properties. Its location also makes it convenient for commuting to the city centre and accessing Edinburgh's universities and cultural attractions.
Why live in Bruntsfield?
· Excellent independent cafés, shops and restaurants.
· Green spaces within easy walking distance.
· Characterful traditional Edinburgh properties.
· Convenient access to central Edinburgh.
· A sociable atmosphere with a strong local identity.
4) New Town – Georgian Elegance and Prestigious City Living
Best for: Professionals, luxury renters and lovers of historic architecture
For those looking for elegant architecture and a central location, Edinburgh's New Town is one of the city's most distinctive residential areas.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Old Town, the New Town is celebrated for its Georgian architecture, handsome terraces, garden squares and wide streets. Residents enjoy easy access to Princes Street, George Street, independent boutiques, restaurants, galleries and cultural venues.
Property options include elegant period flats, substantial townhouses and premium apartments. Many homes feature high ceilings, decorative cornicing, large windows and other original architectural details.
Why live in Edinburgh's New Town?
· Beautiful Georgian architecture and historic streets.
· A central location close to shopping and restaurants.
· Access to cultural attractions and business districts.
· Character properties with distinctive period features.
· Excellent connectivity for city-centre commuters.
5) Leith – A Vibrant Neighbourhood with Character
Best for: First-time renters, professionals, food lovers and creative communities
Leith has become one of Edinburgh's most distinctive places to live, combining its maritime heritage with a lively food scene, independent businesses and an evolving residential property market.
The Shore is particularly popular for its waterfront setting, restaurants and cafés while Leith Walk provides a busy connection towards the city centre. Leith also benefits from tram connections, making journeys across Edinburgh more convenient.
Housing ranges from traditional tenement flats and converted buildings to modern waterfront apartments. This variety makes Leith worth exploring for renters with different budgets and priorities.
Why live in Leith?
· A diverse selection of restaurants, bars and independent businesses.
· Waterfront walks and historic surroundings.
· A mix of traditional and contemporary properties.
· Tram and bus connections to central Edinburgh.
· A lively community with a distinctive identity.
Leith's character can change significantly between streets, so it is worth visiting prospective homes at different times of day and considering transport, noise and local amenities.
6) Marchmont – Classic Edinburgh Living Near The Meadows
Best for: Students, academics, professionals and first-time buyers
Marchmont is a popular residential neighbourhood south of the city centre, known for its Victorian tenements, tree-lined streets and proximity to The Meadows.
Its location makes it particularly convenient for the University of Edinburgh, while the surrounding cafés, shops and everyday amenities create an established neighbourhood atmosphere. The nearby green spaces are ideal for running, walking, cycling and relaxing outdoors.
Marchmont has a varied property market, with many traditional flats and larger shared properties. It attracts students and academics, but also professionals and tenants seeking a characterful home within easy reach of central Edinburgh.
Why live in Marchmont?
· Traditional sandstone tenements and period architecture.
· Immediate access to The Meadows.
· Convenient access to university buildings and the city centre.
· Local cafés, shops and essential services.
· Strong appeal for people seeking walkable city living.
7) Portobello – Coastal Living Within Edinburgh
Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who loves the seaside
Who says you cannot enjoy coastal living while living in a capital city? Portobello offers a refreshing alternative to Edinburgh's more central neighbourhoods, with its sandy beach, promenade and welcoming community atmosphere.
Situated to the east of the city centre, Portobello has a traditional seaside feel, with independent cafés, local shops and places to eat close to the waterfront Its beach is a major attraction for residents who enjoy morning walks, running, cycling or simply spending time beside the sea.
The property market includes traditional tenements, Victorian and Edwardian homes, flats and family houses.
Why live in Portobello?
· A sandy beach and attractive promenade.
· A relaxed coastal atmosphere.
· Independent businesses and community amenities.
· Opportunities for walking, cycling and outdoor activities.
· A range of property styles for different needs.
Commuters should consider their preferred route and journey time, while buyers should pay attention to the condition and maintenance requirements of individual properties.
For people seeking a different pace of life without leaving Edinburgh, Portobello is well worth considering. Milards can help you explore the local property market and identify homes that match your priorities.
8) Corstorphine – A Popular Choice for Suburban Living
Best for: Families, commuters and buyers seeking more space
Corstorphine is an established residential area in west Edinburgh that offers amore suburban feel while remaining connected to the wider city.
The neighbourhood has a traditional high street, local shops, cafés, supermarkets and access to green spaces. Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Zoo and Corstorphine Hill, which provides walking routes and views across the surrounding area.
Its property market includes traditional houses, semi-detached homes, bungalows, flats and more modern developments. This variety makes Corstorphine worth considering for renters who want more internal space or a garden.
Why live in Corstorphine?
· A well-established residential community.
· A range of property types, including family houses.
· Access to local amenities and green spaces.
· Convenient road connections towards west Edinburgh and the wider region.
· A more suburban lifestyle than the central neighbourhoods.
9) Trinity – Leafy Streets and a Relaxed Residential Feel
Best for: Families, established homeowners and people who value green space
Trinity is an attractive residential neighbourhood in north Edinburgh, appreciated for its leafy streets, traditional architecture and quieter atmosphere.
The area is close to both Leith and Stockbridge with waterfront walks around Newhaven and access to green spaces such as Victoria Park. It offers a welcome balance between residential tranquillity and access to city amenities.
Properties include traditional villas, larger family homes, period flats and other residential styles. The neighbourhood appeals to people who value a more settled environment while remaining within reach of central Edinburgh.
Why live in Trinity?
· Leafy residential streets and a quieter atmosphere.
· Access to parks and coastal walking routes.
· Attractive traditional properties.
· A community-oriented residential environment.
· Connections to central Edinburgh by public transport.
10) Gorgie and Dalry – Convenient City Living with a Practical Edge
Best for: First-time tenants, professionals and people seeking value near the centre
Rounding out our list are Gorgie and neighbouring Dalry, two well-connected areas in west Edinburgh that deserve consideration from buyers looking for practical city living.
Both neighbourhoods offer traditional tenement flats, local shops, cafés, supermarkets and useful transport connections. Their position close to Haymarket and the city centre makes them attractive to commuters and people who want to avoid relying on a car for every journey.
Gorgie has a busy, established high street, while Dalry provides convenient access to Haymarket station and the surrounding business district.
Why live in Gorgie and Dalry?
· Convenient access to central Edinburgh and Haymarket.
· A range of traditional flats and other residential properties.
· Everyday amenities within the neighbourhood.
· Useful bus links and access to rail services from nearby Haymarket.
· Areas worth comparing when balancing budget and location.
Why Choose Milards as Your Edinburgh Estate Agent?
Choosing where to live is a major decision, and choosing the right letting agent can make the process much easier.
At Milards, we believe that successful property transactions start with understanding people. Every investor, landlord and tenant has different requirements, and the right advice should reflect those individual needs.
