The UK’s only island city, Portsmouth is best known for its maritime heritage. The city’s waterside location, abundance of green spaces, educational opportunities, and fantastic leisure opportunities, including some fascinating museums, make it highly sought after by students and families alike.

If you’re wondering where is best to live in Portsmouth, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we have covered the six best places to live in this port city. 

1. Southsea

Southsea’s fantastic coastal views and exciting local events make it an attractive place to live for students. In addition to its vibrant atmosphere, it is also within walking distance of the University of Portsmouth. Families will find fantastic leisure opportunities at the neighbourhood’s tennis courts, amusement parks, and even a castle built according to the specifications of Henry VIII for a history lesson with the little ones.

Living in Southsea will save you money compared to living in the city centre, with property prices for shared 3+ bedroom houses in Southsea starting at £94 per person per week (pppw). With self-storage in Portsmouth around the corner, stepping into Southsea’s vibrant atmosphere should be a breeze.

2. Gunwharf Quays

Properties in Gunwharf Quays offer panoramic views of Portsmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight across the Solent. Portsmouth’s prestigious contemporary development offers modern furnished apartments with spacious living areas. Just bear in mind that they come with a price tag.

If you want to enjoy the best of Portsmouth’s leisure amenities and have direct access to the marina and the iconic Spinnaker Tower, the luxury apartments of Jupiter Court, Anson House, and Crescent Building might be worth checking out.

3. Eastney

Home to Eastney Beach, Eastney is a picturesque part of Portsmouth. Its green spaces, unique local shops, and cafés make it attractive to both families and students. There is also a ferry that takes you out to Hayling Island, making Eastney one of the best areas to live in Portsmouth.

Although it is a bit further out from the University of Portsmouth, final-year students might enjoy the balance of work and play that Eastney offers. There are also bus routes into the city and beyond. If you like the sound of Eastney, terraced properties sell for an average of £306,020 and prices start at £110 pppw for 4+ bedroom student houses. 

4. Milton 

If you’re wondering where to live in Portsmouth, Milton offers an escape from the bustle of city life whilst having easy access to town. Located on the eastern side of Portsea Island, Milton’s green spaces and beachfront make it popular amongst students and families alike.

If you’re at the University of Portsmouth Langstone Campus, living in Milton will be convenient for you. Student housing starts at £80 pppw for 4+ bedroom properties. Milton’s modern and period properties with easy access to the Milton Common nature reserve make it attractive to families as well. In 2021, these houses were estimated at £250,000.

5. Fratton 

Originally an industrial area, Fratton is dotted with Victorian terraced houses. With easy access to the University of Portsmouth, lots of pubs, and restaurants, Fratton is among the best places to live in Portsmouth for students. The neighbourhood’s train station makes commuting convenient for workers and Kingston Park is the perfect place to relax in the summer months.  

Housing prices start at £85 pppw for 4+ bedroom properties. What’s more, property prices in Fratton were estimated at £180,000 in 2021. Families looking to buy their first home must take advantage of Fratton’s attractive housing prices.

6. Portsmouth City Centre

With only the best restaurants, bars, and clubs in town, Portsmouth city centre is a hub of action. Shopping opportunities are abundant at the Cascade and if you need a green retreat, Victoria Park is just around the corner. 

Whether you’re a student or a homemaker, living in the city centre will make your Portsmouth life vibrant. Students can find 1-3 properties from £135 pppw onwards. The area’s detached terraced houses estimated at £200,000 are also highly sought after by families. 

With stunning coastal views, fantastic leisure opportunities, and a lively cultural scene, living in Portsmouth is a rewarding experience. All you need to do now is pick your neighbourhood. Once you’ve made your choice, we’ve got your Portsmouth storage needs covered. Whether you’d like help with calculating how much storage you need or would like to take advantage of our collection and delivery services, you can have all your storage needs met in one place. 

(*All prices are approx. as of January 2024)