Exeter ranked move-friendly city

Exeter has been named one of the UK’s least stressful cities to move to, thanks to strong infrastructure, good housing availability, and ease of access to short-term services.

In a new national study released by Pay Less for Storage, Exeter scored 74 out of 100 in the “move-friendliness” index, ranking joint 10th alongside Inverness, Lancaster and Ripon. The research measured practical relocation challenges like van hire access, local self-storage options, chain-free housing stock, and the availability of short-term rentals.

Top-ranking cities included Salford, Cambridge and Chichester, while locations like Newport, Preston and Belfast were rated the most stressful places to relocate due to limited support services and tighter housing conditions.

The average cost of a house move in the UK now exceeds £14,000, and with summer being the busiest moving season, selecting a well-equipped city can make a significant difference.

Matthew Wallace, Moving Expert at Pay Less for Storage, explained:

“We looked at the things that actually trip people up — can you get a van when you need one? Is there storage nearby if your dates don’t line up? Are there chain-free properties available? These are the pain points that turn a move into a nightmare.”

Exeter’s performance reflects a well-balanced combination of resources that help reduce moving stress. From readily available removals to a healthy rental market, the city offers practical solutions for those looking to relocate with minimal disruption.

Whether it’s students arriving for university, professionals seeking a South West lifestyle change, or families making a long-term move, Exeter’s infrastructure and housing flexibility make it a top choice for movers.

With thousands relocating this summer, Exeter is proving itself a convenient and move-friendly city to call home.