Finding the perfect house is one thing but making sure it’s in a community where you’ll feel at home is just as important. 

So how can you be sure a new area is the right fit for you and your lifestyle? 

In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you get a feel for a community before you start looking for your next home. 

Check local community groups 

Most towns and villages have community groups on Facebook, Reddit, or other platforms where residents share updates, recommendations and local news. 

These groups are a goldmine of insights. You can: 

• Observe conversations to see what people are talking about 

• Get a feel for local events, issues and concerns 

• Ask questions directly to residents about what it’s like to live there 

You’ll quickly learn whether it’s the right fit for your needs. 

Subscribe to the local newspaper or magazine 

Local newspapers (print or online) offer valuable insights into the area’s current affairs, development projects and upcoming events. 

They also highlight: 

• Local business advertisements 

• Community initiatives and fundraisers 

• Planning applications or changes that might affect the area 

This will help you understand the character of the community and any changes that could impact your decision to move. 

Explore social media for local businesses and events 

Beyond community groups, search social media for local businesses, cafes, pubs and activity hubs. Look for: 

• Events they’re hosting 

• Promotions or collaborations 

• Customer reviews and photos 

This can give you a sense of how vibrant and active the area is and whether it offers the kind of social scene you’re after. 

Assess local amenities  

Think about the type of lifestyle you want and check if the area supports it. Consider: 

• Schools – attract families and create a more family-focused community 

• Universities/colleges – bring a younger, student population 

• Shops, cafes, restaurants – are there enough options to suit your preferences? 

• Gyms, parks, walking trails – ideal if you’re active and enjoy outdoor spaces 

• Nightlife – be mindful if you’re looking for peace and quiet 

• Transport connections – can you reach places with additional amenities easily? 

• Places of worship – are there other people who share your religious beliefs? 

Don’t forget to think about proximity to supermarkets, shops, pubs, or even additional leisure facilities you may rely on such as cinemas, theatres, leisure centres and activity centres. 

A quick tour around the area (in person or using Google Maps) will give you an idea of whether it has enough of what matters most to you. 

Visit the local pub, shop, or place of worship 

One of the best ways to get a genuine feel for a place is by visiting its local hubs — like the pub, a local café, or a place of worship. 

Strike up a conversation with locals. You’ll often get honest opinions about: 

• What life is really like in that area 

• Popular events and traditions 

• Any issues or concerns you might not spot as an outsider 

This is a great way to sense whether the community is friendly, active and aligned with your values. 

Check crime statistics and sign up to the neighbourhood watch mailing list 

Feeling safe is essential when choosing a new area. 

Websites like Police.uk allow you to check crime statistics for specific postcodes, giving you an idea of crime rates and types of incidents reported. 

You can also look into: 

• Local neighbourhood watch schemes 

• Community safety initiatives or forums 

• Residents’ groups addressing safety concerns 

Joining a local Neighbourhood Watch mailing list can also keep you updated once you move. 

Visit at different times of day 

An often-overlooked tip is to visit the area at different times: 

• Morning (weekday and weekend) 

• Midday 

• Evening/night 

An area might feel peaceful during a weekday afternoon but could be lively (or noisy) at night. Visiting at varying times helps you see the true character of the neighbourhood. 

Choosing the right community is about more than just checking boxes. It’s about finding a place you like and where you’ll feel comfortable and supported. 

By doing your research, talking to those who live there and exploring the area thoroughly, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision and feel confident you’re moving to a place where you’ll want to be.