Is Cardiff a Nice Place to Live? Pros and Cons 

Looking for a city that offers city life and access to nature? Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, fits the bill perfectly. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a culture that holds tradition to its heart, Cardiff is a city that has something to offer everyone. 

Between 2011 and 2021, Cardiff’s population grew by 16,200—a 4.7% increase—reflecting its appeal as a city with a high standard of living and plenty of work and leisure opportunities. But is Cardiff really all it’s cracked up to be? 

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of living in this dynamic city. 

Pros 

1. A Bustling City with Plenty of Green Spaces 

Many cities in the UK struggle to balance the hustle and bustle of urban life with access to green spaces. Cardiff, however, has managed to find that perfect balance. With over 330 parks and gardens, including the iconic Bute Park in the city's heart, Cardiff offers its residents ample opportunities to escape into nature without leaving the city. 

Some of the most popular outdoor areas include: 

• Bute Park – 130 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, right in the city centre. 
• Roath Park and Boating Lake – A Victorian-era park with a stunning lake, rose gardens, and walking trails. 
• Pontcanna Fields – A large open space ideal for jogging, dog walking, and sports. 
• Cardiff Bay – A lively waterfront area with scenic walking and cycling routes. 

Cardiff should definitely be on your list if you're looking for a city that offers the best of both worlds. 

2. Big-City Living Without the Big-City Price Tag 

You'll be glad to hear that living costs are generally cheaper across the board to other major cities in the UK. Though prices have risen slightly in recent years, they are still significantly lower compared to cities like London, Bristol and Manchester. 
 
Here's what you can expect: 

• The average house price in Cardiff is around £290,729 , with areas like Llanrumney, Rumney, and St Mellons offering more affordable options. 
• Rent prices average at  £1,077 per month, which is significantly lower than London's £1,565 to over £3,459 per month.  
• Groceries and living costs are lower, with weekly bills averaging £70–£290. 

Other services, such as self storage and removals, are also more affordable in Wales compared to many parts of England. This is especially important for people relocating to the city or moving within Cardiff. 

3. History, Culture, and Entertainment Galore 

Many assume Cardiff is just a small Welsh town with nothing much to offer, but they couldn't be more wrong. It has a rich history that will entertain history buffs, culture that will please art enthusiasts, and lively entertainment options for everyone. Some notable places to check out include: 

• Cardiff Castle – A stunning medieval fortress with a history spanning over 2,000 years, from Roman times to the Victorian era. 
• National Museum Cardiff – Home to Welsh natural history, fine art collections, and touring exhibitions. 
• St David’s Hall – A premier concert hall featuring orchestras, live music, and cultural performances. 

When it comes to entertainment, residents and visitors can enjoy its various live music venues, theatres, and sporting events. The Principality Stadium hosts major rugby matches, football games, and concerts, making it a  must-visit for sports fans. 

4. Strong Education 

Cardiff is home to three universities, including Cardiff University, ranked among the top 25 universities in the UK, and 2nd for research impact. This makes Cardiff an ideal city for students and those pursuing higher education. 

The city also has no shortage of primary and secondary schools, with  Cardiff High, Radyr Comprehensive and the Bishop of Llandaff School being some of the most highly-regarded institutions in the area. 

All in all, families wanting to make the move to Cardiff can do so with ease, knowing that their children will have access to quality education. 

Cons 

1. Lack of High Paying Job opportunities 

Cardiff offers a strong job market across sectors like finance, professional services, creative industries, and technology, making it a great place for graduates and young professionals to launch their careers. 

However, high-paying corporate roles are limited compared to cities like London and Manchester. The job market is smaller, and Cardiff’s economy leans heavily on public sector jobs, which often come with lower salaries. Those seeking rapid career progression in industries like finance, law, or tech may find better opportunities elsewhere, with some professionals commuting to Bristol or London for higher wages. 

2. It's a Wet City 

The UK is certainly no stranger to rainy days, but Cardiff is known for being one of the wettest cities in the UK. With 1,152mm of rainfall per year on average, it's important to be prepared for wet and gloomy weather. 

Now while it's certainly not a big enough issue to completely discourage people from moving to Cardiff, it's definitely something to keep in mind. For those who thrive in sunny and warm weather, this may not be the ideal location. 

3. Public Transport Can Be Unreliable and Expensive 

Cardiff has plenty of direct train links to major cities across the UK, making traveling long-distances fairly straightforward. However, local transport - buses and trains - can often be unreliable. A common complaint is the frequency of train delays and cancellations, and with the Cardiff Metro system still in development, many residents depend on buses to get around. 

Unfortunately, the bus system can also be expensive. Fares are higher than expected for a city of its size, and the rollout of contactless payments took longer than in other major cities. 

As a result, many residents opt for alternative transport such as cycling, walking, or driving. For commuters who rely on public transport, it’s important to plan ahead for potential delays or disruptions. 

4. There are Bigger Cities Out There 

While Cardiff is Wales' largest city, it's still considered a smaller to medium sized city with a population of just over 351,000. This can be both an advantage and disadvantage for those considering moving to Cardiff. 

On one hand, the smaller size means it's easy to get around and navigate the city. The pace of life is generally slower compared to larger cities, making it feel more quaint and community-oriented. 

Cardiff might be the perfect size for you if a larger-than-life city is not your cup of tea. However, if you're looking for more diversity and a bustling city with endless activities, other cities such as London, Bristol, Liverpool and Glasgow might be a better fit. 

Final Thoughts - Should You Move to Cardiff? 

Cardiff has no shortage of upscale neighbourhoods, but it also offers affordable areas for those on a budget. While living costs are generally lower than in larger cities, some areas can still be expensive. 

Overall, the city provides a unique blend of natural scenery, cultural attractions, and a lively social scene. Its strong transport connections make it easy to explore other parts of the UK, adding to its appeal. 

But like any city, Cardiff has its quirks and challenges. It’s important to research factors like job prospects, housing prices, and lifestyle preferences before deciding if it’s the right fit. Better yet, visit Cardiff and experience its charm and character firsthand before making the big move.