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Higher-End

Old Town

Edinburgh, United Kingdom · Neighborhood Guide

Medieval Royal Mile, historic closes, castle views - tourist-heavy but atmospheric to live in

Data verified August 13, 2026

Old Town at a Glance

Higher-End

Cost Level

£1,200–£1,600/month for 1-BR

Rent Range

Generally safe; tourist pickpockets on Royal Mile; some rowdiness on Cowgate/Grassmarket at weekends

Safety

100–300 Mbps (CityFibre and BT Fibre available in most tenements)

Internet

Who Lives in Old Town?

Students, Airbnb hosts, history lovers, and professionals who trade convenience for atmosphere - quieter in winter

History enthusiastsShort-term residentsSolo professionalsFestival lovers

Living in Old Town - Practical Details

Walkability

Excellent but hilly - cobblestones, steep closes, and stairs; everything is within 10 min walk

Grocery & Food Access

Tesco Metro on Nicolson Street; Sainsbury's Local on the Royal Mile; no large supermarkets - most locals shop in New Town or Leith

Getting Around

  • Lothian Bus 35, 23, 27 (frequent)
  • Edinburgh Tram (Princes Street, 5 min walk)
  • Waverley Station (10 min walk)

Nearby Coworking

  • Codebase (Argyle House)
  • Whitespace (West Bow)
  • Regus Exchange Place

Insider Tips for Old Town

  • 1Avoid Royal Mile flats facing the street - noise from tourists and Festival performers is relentless in August
  • 2The Grassmarket has better-value pubs than the Royal Mile and far fewer tourists
  • 3Many Old Town tenement flats are cold and damp - check heating bills and insulation before signing a lease
  • 4The closes (narrow alleyways) are atmospheric but can be slippery in winter - good boots are essential

FAQ - Old Town, Edinburgh

What is Old Town like for expats?

Old Town is a higher-end neighborhood in Edinburgh. Medieval Royal Mile, historic closes, castle views - tourist-heavy but atmospheric to live in Best for: History lovers, short-term lets; quiet at night outside Festival season

How much does it cost to live in Old Town, Edinburgh?

Old Town is classified as "Higher-End" in Edinburgh. Typical rent: £1,200–£1,600/month for 1-BR. Total monthly budget in Edinburgh: £1,800–£2,400/mo.

Is Old Town safe for expats?

Generally safe; tourist pickpockets on Royal Mile; some rowdiness on Cowgate/Grassmarket at weekends

Who lives in Old Town?

Students, Airbnb hosts, history lovers, and professionals who trade convenience for atmosphere - quieter in winter

Other Neighborhoods in Edinburgh

New Town

Higher-End

Georgian architecture, Charlotte Square, Princes Street - elegant and central

Leith

Mid-Range

Former docklands now gentrified - independent restaurants, Michelin stars, buzzy waterfront

Bruntsfield

Mid-Range

Residential, The Meadows park nearby, excellent independent cafes and delis

Stockbridge

Higher-End

Village feel, farmers market, Water of Leith walkway - Edinburgh's most charming neighbourhood

Morningside

Luxury

Affluent, suburban, excellent schools, quiet streets - Edinburgh's Wimbledon equivalent

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