If you’re planning a move with your other half, it turns out you might already be in the perfect place. Edinburgh has officially been named the best city in the UK for married couples, according to a new index curated by online greetings card marketplace thortful. The study analysed a wide range of lifestyle and wellbeing factors — from average house prices and safety scores to access to green spaces and ‘date night’ amenities — and found that Scotland’s capital tops the list as the most desirable place to settle down.
With summer being the most popular time of year to move house, the study coincides with a reported 40% increase in Google searches for “best way to move house” over the past three months. This highlights a growing trend of couples actively seeking new places to start the next chapter of their lives — and Edinburgh is leading the way.
Edinburgh achieved an overall score of 69.86 out of 100, putting it firmly at the top of the national rankings. It stands out not only for its high safety score (68.78) but also for its blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty. With an average house price of £293,805, the city may not be the cheapest on the list, but it offers excellent value for the lifestyle it delivers. From romantic strolls along the Water of Leith and sunset views atop Arthur’s Seat, to fine dining in the city centre and world-class theatre at the Festival Fringe, it’s a city that truly caters to couples at every stage of life.
The index also praised Edinburgh for its abundance of restaurants — with over 370 per 100,000 residents — and its significant access to green space, with nearly a third of the city made up of parks and gardens. This combination of safety, outdoor opportunities, and cultural richness makes it a compelling choice for couples seeking both connection and quality of life.
Glasgow followed closely behind in second place, with a score of 64.24, thanks largely to its affordability and impressive offering of walking trails and local amenities. With average house prices at £182,700, Glasgow presents a more budget-friendly option, particularly attractive to younger couples or those looking to buy their first home.
Other cities making the top five included Newcastle upon Tyne, Manchester, and Sheffield, each offering their own unique mix of culture, cost, and community. However, Scotland clearly stood out in the findings, with both of its largest cities ranking highly for safety, access to nature, and strong community infrastructure.
A spokesperson from thortful commented:
“When evaluating the best cities for married couples, we considered not just the practical aspects like cost of living and schools, but also what makes life joyful — things like date night options, parks, and a strong sense of community. Edinburgh really delivered across the board.”
Whether you’re newlyweds searching for a fresh start, growing your family, or looking to upgrade your lifestyle, Edinburgh seems to tick all the right boxes. And if you’re celebrating a move or a milestone, thortful’s range of cards makes a lovely finishing touch to mark the moment.
To view the full ranking and methodology, visit thortful’s blog.
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