Perhaps you are currently browsing housing options available within Swindon? Still, you’ve no doubt asked yourself what many other property hunters have asked: “Is Swindon a decent place to live?” Well, to cut to the chase, absolutely – Swindon is definitely a great option for a very wide range of buyers on many fronts. However, like any other town, there are aspects to consider.
This comprehensive guide provides you with a very informative and balanced insight into what life is like in Swindon – including housing costs, neighbourhoods, schools, transport, lifestyle, pros, cons, and everything in between.
Table of Contents
Affordability & the Swindon Housing Market
One of the main factors that attract residents to Swindon is value for money. Compared to other nearby towns such as Bristol, Bath, Reading, and Oxford, housing costs here are much lower.
- Terraced homes tend to start around mid £200,000s
- Semi-detached houses tend to achieve low to mid £300,000s
- Detached property types range greatly but are relatively more affordable than many other surrounding towns.
For first-time buyers, young families, and even London commuters, Swindon provides an opportunity to buy more property on the same budget.
Renting is also relatively inexpensive, which makes it very attractive to professionals moving to work.
If you are currently looking at homes for sale within Swindon, you will recognise that there is plenty to choose from, including newer estates, established neighbourhoods, and more historic neighbourhoods to suit different budgets.
Transport & Transport-Related Links
Swindon is very well-linked, and this is one of the main factors contributing to its expansion.
Roads Connecting
Swindon is directly on the M4 corridor, which provides easy access to:
- Bristol
- Reading
- London
- And South Wales
…fast and direct.
Railway Connections
Swindon Railway Station is a busy hub incorporating:
- Fast Trains to London Paddington
- Direct train services to Bristol, Bath, Gloucester, Cardiff, Oxford, and more
This makes Swindon an ideal location for those splitting their work activities between home and office environments, or those working in a city but finding it more expensive to live there.
Are there any negatives?
Traffic can build during peak periods, particularly around busy intersections. However, this is to be expected in such a rapidly growing commuter town.
Schools, Amenities & Lifestyle
Swindon is a favourite with families because it provides very good schools, parks, and recreational activities.
Schools
There are enough “Good” schools and some “Outstanding” schools at both primary and secondary school ages to attract moving families into this area from other surrounding regions.
Amenities
Swindon provides:
- Parks and green spaces
- Shopping centres & retail parks
- Leisure centres, sports clubs and cinemas
- Easy access to the Wiltshire countryside
Although it is no cultural capital like Bath or Oxford, it provides what most people, regardless of profession, need on a daily basis.
Lifestyle Balance
Swindon provides a balance that lies between:
- Town convenience
- Countryside tranquillity
- Commuting freedom
For many consumers, this is an ideal balance.
Neighbourhoods & Housing Types
Swindon has many neighbourhoods to choose from, each offering something slightly different.
- Old Town
Character homes, period terraced housing, cottage-lined streets, and a lively community ethos. - North Swindon
High-rise modern developments, family homes, schools, parks, modern design. - Wroughton, Royal Wootton Bassett & Surrounding Villages
An ideal locality for those seeking village life but close to Swindon’s conveniences. - Wichelstowe & Newer Developments
Particularly suited to those buyers looking to enjoy modern lifestyles, optimised space design, natural parks, and relatively low-maintenance newer homes.
Whatever your budget and lifestyle, there is a Swindon neighbourhood to suit your needs. The Miles Byron property search tool is a great place to start to narrow down your search.
Things to Consider (Potential Downsides)
A fair guide should incorporate factors cited by some citizens, such as:
- Traffic & Congestion
Peak-time traffic around main junctions and retail parks can be busy. - Town Centre Regeneration
The old town centre is still being developed, though some parts give a modern and revamped feel, while other parts do not seem to have progressed much. - Mixed Neighbourhoods
As with any big town, there are differences between neighbourhoods, with some being more desirable than others, while other places are more affordable but will take a bit more research to uncover. - Culture & Nightlife
Good, but not as lively and varied as other larger cities. This is not a problem for most prospective home buyers, though.
Therefore… IS SWINDON A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?
For many — yes.
Swindon provides:
- Excellent transport connections
- More affordable homes
- High job opportunities
- Good schools
- Amenities are plentiful
- A balance between town life and access to the countryside
While it may not have the same level of culture to offer as other larger metropolitan cities, value for quality of life is second to none, particularly within the realms of family, business professionals, commuters, and first-time buyers alike.
If you are thinking about moving or just looking at homes available to buy in Swindon, there is no better time than now to discover what is out there.
Want to Discover Homes in Swindon?
Browse available homes for sale in Swindon or consult the Miles Byron team for expert local guidance and viewings.