Aberdeen is a vibrant city located in the northeast of Scotland. It is a city that has a rich history, culture, and a friendly community. Aberdeen is also known as the “Granite City” due to its impressive grey granite buildings and its population of over 198,000 people. If you are considering moving to Aberdeen, weighing up the pros and cons of living in this city is important.
Pros of Living in Aberdeen
- Employment Opportunities
Aberdeen is home to the oil and gas industry, a significant employer in the city for several decades. The city is also known for its thriving tourism industry, which provides job opportunities in the hospitality sector. Additionally, Aberdeen has diverse job opportunities in finance, healthcare, education, and technology industries.
- High Quality of Life
Aberdeen has consistently been voted one of the best places to live in the UK. The city boasts a high quality of life, excellent healthcare facilities, low crime rates, and a clean and safe environment. The city also has a fantastic range of leisure and recreational facilities, including parks, museums, cinemas, and restaurants.
- Beautiful Scenery
Aberdeen has stunning scenery, including a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and expansive forests. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Duthie Park, Hazlehead Park, and Seaton Park, which provide ample outdoor activities and relaxation opportunities.
- Cultural Heritage
The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a wealth of historic landmarks and buildings. The city is home to several museums, including the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, the Tolbooth Museum, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Additionally, Aberdeen hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Aberdeen International Youth Festival, the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival, and the Aberdeen Jazz Festival.
Cons of Living in Aberdeen
- High Cost of Living
One of the major downsides of living in Aberdeen is the high cost of living. The cost of housing, food, and entertainment is significantly higher than in other parts of the United Kingdom. That can make making ends meet difficult for individuals and families on lower incomes.
- Weather
Aberdeen has a temperate maritime climate, which means it experiences mild temperatures all year round. However, the city is known for its cold and wet winters, with frequent snowfall and rainfall. This can make it challenging for individuals not accustomed to cold and damp weather.
- Limited Public Transport
While Aberdeen has an extensive public transport network, including buses and trains, getting around the city during peak times can be challenging. Additionally, the city needs a subway or tram system, which can make it tough for individuals who rely on public transport to get around.
- Limited Job Opportunities Outside of Oil and Gas
While Aberdeen has diverse job opportunities, the city heavily relies on the oil and gas industry. This means that individuals not working in this sector may struggle to find suitable employment opportunities. In addition, the recent decline in the oil and gas industry has also led to job losses and a slowdown in the local economy.
Conclusion
Overall, living in Aberdeen has its advantages and disadvantages. The city offers a high quality of life, with excellent job opportunities, beautiful scenery, and a rich cultural heritage. However, it can be difficult for some individuals to make a living in the city due to its high cost of living, challenging weather conditions, and limited employment opportunities outside the oil and gas industry.