Why More People Are Moving to The Lothians (And How to Do It Right)
House prices in Edinburgh are going up. Gardens are getting smaller. And for many, the city just isn’t fitting the way they want to live anymore.
We’ve noticed the shift—not in headlines, but in the homes we help move. More people are trading tenement flats for village houses, busy streets for a bit of breathing room. Places like Musselburgh, Dalkeith, and Livingston aren’t just commutable—they’re becoming destinations in their own right.
If you’ve been eyeing up the Lothians, this guide will walk you through what to expect, what to consider, and how our local removals team can make the move simple and stress-free.
Let’s break it down.
Why Are More People Moving to The Lothians?
Ask around, and you’ll hear the same story. Edinburgh’s getting tighter, busier, and more expensive. What once felt vibrant is starting to feel a bit cramped, especially for families or first-time buyers trying to make the numbers work.
That’s why the Lothians are becoming such an attractive option.
Cost Is a Major Driver
Let’s be honest, property in Edinburgh isn’t getting any cheaper. The average house price in the city now sits well above the national average, pushing many buyers to look further afield. The Lothians offer a more affordable alternative, without sacrificing quality of life.
You’ll often find bigger properties for the same or less than what you’d pay for a smaller flat in the city. For anyone looking to upsize, find a garden, or simply get better value, it’s a no-brainer.
More Space, More Breathing Room
When lockdowns made us all think differently about how we live, a shift started. Now, that shift is sticking. People want home offices, outdoor space, and a quieter lifestyle. The Lothians give you that, without cutting you off from city life.
Whether it’s a semi in Bonnyrigg or a detached house in Haddington, there’s space to grow, unwind, and breathe.
And thanks to better transport links, you don’t have to give up on your Edinburgh job, social life or commute.
Lifestyle Trade-Up
It’s not just about the money too, it’s also about the quality of life. Many areas across East, West, and Midlothian offer a more laid-back rhythm, while still feeling well-connected. You’ll find local farmers markets, good schools, scenic walking routes, and a real sense of community—something that’s getting harder to come by in the city.
A Closer Look at the Lothians: Which Area is Right for You?
Everyone’s moving for different reasons, some for schools, others for space, some to get out of renting. Here’s a quick guide to help you get a feel for each area:
East Lothian
Musselburgh – Just a short hop from Edinburgh, Musselburgh is great for commuters. It offers seaside charm, lovely walks, and quick access to the city via train or road.
Haddington – A bit further out, but full of character. You’ll find period homes, good schools, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for young families.
West Lothian
Livingston – Known for its large shopping centre and business parks, Livingston offers all the conveniences of a town, with better housing value. Great for young professionals or families looking to settle down.
Bathgate – Well-connected and increasingly popular, Bathgate has a real mix of housing options and a steadily improving high street.
Midlothian
Dalkeith – Full of history, greenery, and close to the bypass. Dalkeith Country Park is a big draw here.
Bonnyrigg – Quiet, community-focused, and great for schools. Ideal if you’re after a suburban pace without feeling isolated.
Each of these areas has its own character, and we’ve helped people move to them all. If you’re unsure where to go, our team’s local insight can help you weigh up what’s right for your lifestyle.
Planning a Smooth Exit from the City
Leaving Edinburgh can feel like a big step—but planning ahead can make the transition easier. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know Your Timing
Avoid last-minute panic by planning well in advance. Moving during school holidays or weekends? These slots book up fast. At Wilsons, we offer weekend removals and flexible pricing to help you lock in a time that suits your schedule.
Map Out the Practicalities
Moving to a new area means adjusting your routines. Try the commute, research school catchments, and look into local GP surgeries, nurseries, or dog-walking spots. A little planning goes a long way once the boxes are unpacked.
Don’t Do It All Yourself
You can try to manage everything, but you don’t have to. We’ve been helping people relocate across the region for years, and we’re happy to handle the heavy lifting—literally and figuratively. From tight stairwells to narrow lanes in rural Lothian villages, we know how to get the job done without the drama.
How Wilsons of Edinburgh Makes the Move Easier
When you’re hiring a moving company, trust is everything. We’re a family-run business based right here in Edinburgh, with decades of experience helping people move into—and out of—the city.
Here’s how we help:
We know the area inside out – From city-centre flats to countryside cottages, we understand the logistics of local roads, parking restrictions, and rural access.
Tailored removals – Every move is different. We create a plan based on your home, your timeline, and your priorities.
House clearance – Downsizing? Clearing a loved one’s home? We offer respectful, thorough house clearance services.
Secure storage – Need to bridge a gap between homes? We offer safe and accessible storage.
Fair pricing with flexibility – Our pricing is upfront, and we regularly run weekend specials to give you options.
When you book with Wilsons, you’re getting more than muscle, you’re getting a local team that cares about doing the job right!
Pro Tips from Our Team
Here are a few bonus tips we’ve learned from years of helping people move:
Start packing early – Even if you’re not moving for a month, begin boxing up the non-essentials.
Label like your future self will thank you – Mark boxes clearly. “Kitchen – mugs + kettle” is more useful than “Misc.”
Don’t skip the essentials box – Keep chargers, toilet roll, snacks, bedding, and a change of clothes in one box you open first.
Sort your admin early – Redirect post, notify your council and utility providers, and update your GP and dentist.
Ask your removals team questions – We’re not just here to carry boxes. We’re happy to give advice on what works best.
Ready to Move?
Relocating to the Lothians could be one of the best decisions you make—but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one.
Our team at Wilsons of Edinburgh is here to help you every step of the way, with practical advice, flexible support, and the kind of care that comes from being a local, family-run company.
Need a quote or want to talk through your plans? Get in touch with us today or visit our services page to see how we can support your move.
