Aberdeen

Aberdeen is Scotland’s 3rd largest city, currently home to a population of approximately 230,000 people. A popular residential and shopping destination, Aberdeen is often referred to as the Silver City because of its dramatic granite architecture, with remarkable granite buildings lining Union Street, the city’s mile-long main thoroughfare.

Known for its vibrant arts scene and cultural life. With two major universities, the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University, the city is home to around 33,000 students, contributing to a diverse atmosphere. This youthful community helps to support a strong rental and first-time buyer market alongside long-established residential communities.

Aberdeen’s residents benefit from a unique blend of city and coastal living, with access to beaches and coastal paths which line the east side of the city. Large green spaces such as Duthie Park and Hazlehead Park also offer plenty of outdoor opportunities for dog-walking, family days out and picnics. Alongside this, Aberdeen’s city centre provides a wide range of retail, dining, cultural and leisure facilities, making it an attractive location for families, professionals and students alike.

The property market in Aberdeen has a variety of properties. From traditional granite-built tenements and Victorian villas to modern apartments, new developments and family homes, there are homes to suit all lifestyles. It has also shown steady resilience over the years, with demand remaining strong across both the rental and sales sectors. Aberdeen has competitive pricing compared to other major UK cities, offering a wider range of opportunities for buyers.

Aberdeen is easy to navigate with regular buses to and from the city centre to the surrounding residential areas. It is the ideal city for families and professionals alike, with varied housing and plenty to do throughout.

The surrounding areas also feature great transport links, making Aberdeenshire the ideal area to settle down in.

Population

230,000 people

Distance from Aberdeen

N/A

Transport

Rail links north to Inverness and beyond, and south to Dundee and beyond. There are also regular bus services around Aberdeen City and to outlying areas with a majority leaving from the main bus station.

Additional information

There are 61 primary and secondary schools across Aberdeen. A full, alphabetical list can be found here.

There are also 8 Special schools, catering for children with specific needs. These are also listed.

There is also an interactive mapping service, which enables you to input a postcode to determine the school catchment area relevant to that specific property.

The city is also home to two acclaimed Universities, with an abundance of student flats and accomodation as well as family homes.

Average cost of a three-bedroom home: £254,000

Average Floor area of three bedroom home: 102m2 / 1097ft2

Derived from Quarter Two 2024 property sales in the area.

History of Aberdeen

Aberdeen is one of Scotland’s most historic cities, with roots stretching back over 8,000 years, dating to early settlements along the River Dee and the River Don. The city’s first official charter was granted by King William the Lion in 1179, laying the foundations for its development as a royal burgh.

In 1319, Robert the Bruce issued the Great Charter of Aberdeen, granting the city greater independence and control over its own trade and governance. This helped establish Aberdeen as a significant commercial and maritime hub in the north of Scotland.

For centuries, the city’s economy was shaped by fishing, shipbuilding, papermaking and textile production, supported by its strategic coastal position and natural harbour. The distinctive local silver-grey granite, quarried nearby, became the defining material of the city’s architecture, earning Aberdeen its long-standing nickname, “The Silver City by the Sea.”

In the 1970s, the discovery of North Sea oil dramatically transformed Aberdeen into a global energy centre, bringing international investment and reshaping its economy, population and infrastructure. While energy remains important, the city has since diversified into education, life sciences, technology and tourism, building on a long legacy of innovation.

 

Top 5 Things to See and Do Nearby

  1. City of Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School
    Guided distillery tours, gin-making masterclasses, and tastings are perfect for a fun afternoon, a date or a weekend outing.
  2. St Machar’s Cathedral
    Immerse yourself in centuries of history inside a landmark known for its dramatic granite structure and ornate heraldic ceiling.
  3. Aberdeen Art Gallery
    Art lovers will enjoy exploring this gallery’s rich collection. It spans from classical to contemporary works, making it ideal for a culturally enriching visit.
  4. Aberdeen Maritime Museum
    Exhibitions on shipbuilding, fishing, and the city’s maritime and North Sea oil heritage provide an educational experience for all ages.
  5. Duthie Park
    Expansive, lush grounds with botanical displays, offering a calm outdoor setting for families, nature enthusiasts, and visitors seeking relaxation.

 

Why should I choose Aberdeen?

Moving to Aberdeen can be a very positive choice, particularly for those seeking a balanced lifestyle that combines city living, career opportunities, and easy access to the outdoors. The city also enjoys a vibrant cultural scene, with a wide range of museums, galleries, theatres, festivals, and live music, all without the congestion often associated with larger cities. In addition, compared with cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, Aberdeen typically offers better value for money in the housing market, meaning many people can afford to live closer to the city centre without compromising on amenities.

Are you looking to rent or buy a flat or property in Aberdeen or find a home in surrounding Aberdeenshire? Let ASPC help. Our property search lets you browse from an extensive range of houses and flats for sale in Aberdeen, with sizes ranging from compact Aberdeenshire flats, to large family homes. You can also search our property list for houses and flats to let in Aberdeen – so whether you’re looking to buy or rent in the city, ASPC may have the ideal property for you. If you need professional guidance, you can also explore our directory of solicitors in Aberdeen to help with your property journey.

For more information on the Aberdeen area and what the city has to offer, see www.aberdeencity.gov.uk and Visit Scotland - Aberdeen

View area localities