Ireland has a strong connection to Yorkshire, with many people from Ireland choosing to live in northern towns over the generations, often near to the first ports their ancestors would have embarked from. For the modern Irish expat, choosing where to live in Yorkshire after leaving home can be overwhelming. You certainly don’t have to settle in the first town you end up in, and the choices are endless. Whether you want sprawling nightlife in a bustling city, or peaceful rolling hills and quiet country pubs, north England has something for everyone. Here are some things to consider when making this important decision.
Location
The first thing to consider when choosing where to live in Yorkshire is the location. The north is famous for many things, but the diversity and distinctness of both geography and culture is one that counts for a lot. Travel a few hours down a road and the accents, history and landscape can almost completely change. As an Irish expat, you’re likely familiar with plenty of UK culture, but be sure to figure out roughly what you want from your new home, and have a shortlist in mind of areas you think will suit you best. Many choose to visit prior, which is also an option easily done via short flights to Manchester or Newcastle airports. Yorkshire has a range of different locations, so it is important to consider your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Employment Opportunities
Another important consideration when choosing where to live in Yorkshire is employment opportunities. Unlike London, where there is a saturation of industries, up north you might need to be more deliberate about where you settle to be able to access certain opportunities. You will need to make sure that the area you choose has job opportunities that suit your skills and interests. For example, northern cities near Yorkshire like Sunderland and Newcastle have built up a reputation for supporting technology businesses and their support teams. If you know you want to get into a tech business, pay attention to these areas, because not everywhere can cater.
Sticking Around
Once you have found the perfect place to live in Yorkshire, you will need to make sure that your immigration status is in order. This is where immigration solicitors in Ireland come in. These legal professionals can help you navigate the complex process of obtaining a visa that permits you to work, start businesses, purchase property or make your right to remain, permanent.
Education
If you have children, you will need to consider the education options available in different areas. Yorkshire has plenty of schools, but it’s also home to several excellent, red-brick universities. If you want to raise children and send them to uni, consider which cities are close by with high-performing institutions, to give them the best start to life.
Community
Community is an essential part of life, and it is important to find an area that feels welcoming and has a sense of community. The north is famously friendly in general and prides itself on being a place where anyone can feel at home speaking to a stranger on a bus. Take the time to research different areas, and while you’re visiting, consider attending some local events to get a feel for the community spirit.
Choosing where to live in Yorkshire after moving from Ireland can be a challenging decision, but an exciting one. It is important to consider your personal preferences, employment opportunities, community, and education options to ensure you love your new home in the north. Additionally, enlisting the help of immigration solicitors can help ensure that your immigration status is in order and that you are legally protected.
