Moving to Reading – Your Guide

Are you considering moving to Reading? Whether you’re drawn by the thriving job market, vibrant culture, or beautiful parks, Reading has much to offer. This guide will help you navigate the process and provide insights on living in Reading, including recommended neighbourhoods.

Why move to Reading?

Moving home is a big change, and it is important to make sure you have done your research before relocating to a new place. Reading has so much to offer, from beautiful open spaces to diverse communities and lots of exciting opportunities. Here are some of the reasons you might consider moving to Reading.

A thriving job market

One of the key reasons many people are moving to Reading is its robust job market. With major companies like Microsoft and Oracle having a presence here, the city is a hub for tech and business opportunities. Furthermore, the average salary in Reading is currently £38K according to Payscale, thanks to popular employers such as Thames Water and Vodafone. The proximity to London also allows for easy commuting, making it an attractive option for professionals.

A vibrant community

Living in Reading means immersing yourself in a diverse and welcoming community. From local festivals to cultural events, there’s always something happening. The annual Reading Festival attracts music lovers from all over, making it a highlight of the calendar year. Local markets, galleries, and theatres add to the cultural richness, ensuring you’ll never be short of things to do.

Beautiful parks and green spaces

Nature enthusiasts will love the parks in Reading. With lush spaces like Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park, there are plenty of spots to relax, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely walk. Moving to Reading means you’ll have easy access to these beautiful areas, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Where are the best places to live in Reading?

If you are thinking of living in Reading, you will want to make sure you find the right community to suit your lifestyle. From family-friendly areas to vibrant communities and cosy quarters, here are some of the best areas to live in Reading. 

City Centre

If you want to be in the heart of the action, the City Centre is ideal. You’ll find a mix of modern apartments and historic buildings, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options right on your doorstep. This area is perfect for young professionals who enjoy urban living.

Caversham

Just across the river from the City Centre, Caversham offers a more suburban feel while still being close to amenities. It’s known for its charming streets, parks, and excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families. Plus, you can enjoy scenic walks along the Thames.

Tilehurst

Tilehurst is another excellent choice for families, featuring a mix of housing types and good schools. With plenty of green spaces, such as Tilehurst Triangle and Prospect Park, it’s ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities. The area also has a strong sense of community, with local shops and amenities.

Earley

Located to the east of Reading, Earley is known for its spacious homes and family-friendly environment. It boasts great schools and easy access to parks. The area has a blend of modern conveniences and a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking for a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the city.

Reading West

For those looking for more affordable housing options, Reading West is worth considering. This area is a bit more residential, with a mix of housing types, and is well-connected to the city centre via public transport. It’s becoming increasingly popular among first-time buyers and young families.

What to expect when living in Reading

There are so many reasons you might be thinking of moving to Reading. From affordable housing to excellent transport links and outstanding education. Let’s explore this further.

Affordable housing options

One of the most appealing aspects of moving to Reading is the variety of housing options available. Whether you prefer a cosy flat in the city centre or a family home in a quieter suburb, you’ll find something that fits your budget.

The average price for a flat is around £231,196. Semi-detached properties are selling on average for £454,552, and terraced properties are selling on average for £347,558.

Excellent transport links

Getting around is easy when living in Reading. The town boasts a central train station with direct services to London, Oxford, and beyond. This makes it convenient for commuters and those who enjoy exploring other cities. Local buses also provide great connectivity within Reading.

There are also lots of regeneration projects in progress, with the Local Transport Strategy 2040 setting out to complete the following:

• creating more bus lanes to make bus travel times more reliable 
• creating more Park and Ride hubs and improving the existing ones 
• upgrades and enhancements to railway stations 

Quality education

Families moving to Reading will appreciate the quality of education available. With a mix of reputable schools and the University of Reading, there are excellent educational opportunities for all ages. This focus on education enhances the appeal of the city for families and young professionals alike.

Our top tips for moving to reading

1. Research neighbourhoods: Different areas of Reading offer unique vibes. Do some research to find the one that suits your lifestyle.
2. Plan your commute: Consider how close you want to be to the train station if commuting to London is a priority.
3. Explore local amenities: Check out nearby shops, restaurants, and parks to get a feel for what life will be like in your chosen neighbourhood.
4. Join community groups: Engaging with local groups can help you settle in and meet new people.
5. Utilise self storage: Using self storage in Reading can be a lifesaver during your transition. Magenta Self Storage provides secure and affordable storage units where you can keep your items safe and accessible while you settle into your new home. 

Moving to Reading can be an exciting new chapter in your life. With its thriving job market, vibrant community, and beautiful parks, living in Reading offers a wonderful balance of work and leisure. By exploring the recommended neighbourhoods and understanding what to expect, you’ll be well-prepared for your move. 

We know that moving home is no easy task, which is why we offer flexible self storage in Reading to help make your house move hassle-free. If you are moving to Reading and need somewhere to store your belongings to sell your house, or to store extra furniture or furniture for your new house, contact us and we will provide you with a free quote. Have a friend or relative moving to reading? If you refer a friend, you can enjoy 50% off your next storage invoice! 

Plus, if you need help moving to Reading, Magenta Storage provides two hours of free usage of Hertz vehicle hire to help move your belongings into the facility and make your life as easy and stress-free as possible.

If you’re ready to make the leap, start planning today. Reading is waiting for you, and it just might become your new favourite place to call home.