Living in Glasgow as an expat
With beautiful Victorian architecture and lush natural surrounds, the city of Glasgow sits beside the River Clyde in Scotland's central lowlands, about an hour west of the capital city of Edinburgh. Expats moving to Glasgow will find themselves in a city that locals and foreigners alike are proud to call home.
Glasgow grew from its origins in shipping and trade to embrace its post-industrial role as Scotland's engineering and manufacturing stronghold. Subsequently, Glasgow became a centre of the Scottish Enlightenment movement, producing impressive art, music, and architecture.
This evolution has produced a city of contrasts, carefully combining beauty and rugged functionality, resulting in an influx of newcomers keen to move to Glasgow and make the city their new home.
Working in Glasgow
Many expats come to Glasgow to work in the city's financial and business services sector. Those who come over without a job already secured will soon discover that finding work in Glasgow can be a highly competitive process. Networking is key, and expats often find that going through an employment agency tends to yield the best results.
Lifestyle in Glasgow
While Glasgow's climate is far from ideal, bundle yourself up and you'll still find plenty to do if you venture outside. From cosy pubs and restaurants to museums rich in culture and history, you'll be entertained even in the worst of weather. Make the most of rare sunny days by heading out to one of the many green spaces and gardens in the city.
Good transport links make it easy to venture beyond Glasgow and explore the Scottish countryside. Camping and hiking are popular activities, while the picturesque and bustling capital Edinburgh is just an hour away by train.
Shopping, Attractions, and Outdoor Activities in Glasgow
Shopping, Attractions, and Outdoor Activities in Edinburgh
Finding accommodation in Glasgow
Most of Glasgow's architecture is made up of old Victorian-era buildings, and this applies to much of the accommodation too. As a result, there are some real gems waiting to found, though they can come with the quirks of old buildings. New builds are available but can be a bit harder to find. Generally, accommodation here offers good value and buildings tend to be well insulated and fitted with fixtures like gas heating and double-glazed windows to ward off the cold of winter months.
Renting Accommodation in Glasgow
Cost of living in Glasgow
Glasgow offers a moderate cost of living compared to many other cities worldwide, making it an appealing option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing urban conveniences.
For those deciding between Glasgow and Edinburgh, the lower cost of living in Glasgow may be a deciding factor. Rental prices, in particular, tend to be more affordable than in the capital, making Glasgow a slightly more budget-friendly choice within the UK. However, both cities offer a high quality of life, and personal preferences will ultimately determine the best fit.
Living with children in Glasgow
Glasgow's high quality of life makes it a great place to raise a family. Healthcare is free or subsidised and of excellent quality, and the city is home to many good schools. There's plenty of fun to be had in and around the city, with a range of museums, shopping centres, and green spaces to explore.
Glasgow also has all sorts of cute critters waiting to be spotted by sharp-eyed residents, from otters on riverbanks to foxes prowling around at night. You don't have to venture far out of the city to see Scotland's famous fluffy highland cows, as they can often be found in fields chomping away at grass.
Finding a school in Glasgow
While there aren't any foreign-curriculum schools in Glasgow, most expat parents are happy with the quality of education that government schools offer. In fact, Glasgow is home to some of Scotland's top-performing state schools. Catchment areas do apply, though, so expat parents looking to nab a seat for their children at one of the more competitive schools should keep this in mind when deciding what area to live in.
Expat parents after a globally minded education for their children might be interested in sending them to one of the handful of International Baccalaureate schools in Scotland. While there aren't any in Glasgow itself, there are three IB schools within a 30- to 60-minute commute.
Education and Schools in Glasgow
Getting around in Glasgow
Getting around in Glasgow is fairly easy with several options to choose from. Trains run from two major stations in the city centre, providing affordable travel options in Glasgow and throughout the UK. The bus system is just as efficient, with a reliable and comprehensive timetable servicing the city. Wet weather can sometimes cause disruptions, though, so it's best to check the schedule before heading out.
Transport and Driving in Glasgow
Climate in Glasgow
Glasgow's typically chilly and windy climate isn't one of its main selling points. Still, the bright flowers that pop up all over the city in springtime do make for a pretty sight, and some summer days can be fairly warm.
Once settled, expats will encounter honest enthusiasm and a generous spirit among Glaswegians, finding many residents eager to chat. Come Friday evenings, expats heading down to the pub will find there's plenty of witty banter to be had, which is a great way to make friends with locals.
Moving to Glasgow may seem intimidating at first, but given a little time, expats will feel just as proud to live among the city's stunning Victorian architecture as born-and-bred Glaswegians.