Finding the perfect house is one thing but making
sure it’s in a community where you’ll feel at home is just as important.
So how can you be sure a new area is the right fit
for you and your lifestyle?
In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help
you get a feel for a community before you start looking for your next
home.
Check local community groups
Most towns and villages have community groups on
Facebook, Reddit, or other platforms where residents share updates,
recommendations and local news.
These groups are a goldmine of insights. You
can:
- Observe conversations to see what people
are talking about
- Get a feel for local events, issues and
concerns
- Ask questions directly to residents about
what it’s like to live there
You’ll quickly learn whether it’s the right fit for
your needs.
Subscribe to the local newspaper or magazine
Local newspapers (print or online) offer valuable
insights into the area’s current affairs, development projects and upcoming
events.
They also highlight:
- Local business advertisements
- Community initiatives and
fundraisers
- Planning applications or changes that
might affect the area
This will help you understand the character of the
community and any changes that could impact your decision to move.
Explore social media for local businesses and
events
Beyond community groups, search social media for
local businesses, cafes, pubs and activity hubs. Look for:
- Events they’re hosting
- Promotions or collaborations
- Customer reviews and photos
This can give you a sense of how vibrant and active
the area is and whether it offers the kind of social scene you’re after.
Assess local amenities
Think about the type of lifestyle you want and
check if the area supports it. Consider:
- Schools –
attract families and create a more family-focused community
- Universities/colleges –
bring a younger, student population
- Shops, cafes, restaurants –
are there enough options to suit your preferences?
- Gyms, parks, walking trails – ideal
if you’re active and enjoy outdoor spaces
- Nightlife –
be mindful if you’re looking for peace and quiet
- Transport connections –
can you reach places with additional amenities easily?
- Places of worship –
are there other people who share your religious beliefs?
Don’t forget to think about proximity to
supermarkets, shops, pubs, or even additional leisure facilities you may rely
on such as cinemas, theatres, leisure centres and activity centres.
A quick tour around the area (in person or using
Google Maps) will give you an idea of whether it has enough of what matters
most to you.
Visit the local pub, shop, or place of worship
One of the best ways to get a genuine feel for a
place is by visiting its local hubs — like the pub, a local café, or a place of
worship.
Strike up a conversation with locals. You’ll often
get honest opinions about:
- What life is really like in that
area
- Popular events and traditions
- Any issues or concerns you might not spot
as an outsider
This is a great way to sense whether the community
is friendly, active and aligned with your values.
Check crime statistics and sign up to the
neighbourhood watch mailing list
Feeling safe is essential when choosing a new
area.
Websites like Police.uk allow you
to check crime statistics for specific postcodes, giving you an idea of crime
rates and types of incidents reported.
You can also look into:
- Local neighbourhood watch schemes
- Community safety initiatives or
forums
- Residents’ groups addressing safety
concerns
Joining a local Neighbourhood Watch mailing list
can also keep you updated once you move.
Visit at different times of day
An often-overlooked tip is to visit the area at
different times:
- Morning (weekday and weekend)
- Midday
- Evening/night
An area might feel peaceful during a weekday
afternoon but could be lively (or noisy) at night. Visiting at varying times
helps you see the true character of the neighbourhood.
Choosing the right community is about more than
just checking boxes. It’s about finding a place you like and where you’ll feel
comfortable and supported.
By doing your research, talking to those who live there and exploring the area thoroughly, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision and feel confident you’re moving to a place where you’ll want to be.