City Profile
Edinburgh, Scotland
UK · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, seamlessly blends a medieval Old Town with a striking Georgian New Town, all dominated by its iconic volcanic castle. The city is a major cultural and financial hub, renowned globally for its world-class festivals, arts scene, and rich architectural heritage. People are continually drawn to Edinburgh for its exceptional quality of life, robust job market, and unique balance of cosmopolitan amenities and green spaces.
Scotland, a constituent country of the United Kingdom, is known for its rich history, distinct culture, and dramatic landscapes, ranging from vibrant cities to serene Highlands. The economy is a mixed, service-based economy with key industries including finance, technology, energy (oil, gas, and renewables), food and drink (especially whisky), tourism, and life sciences. The cost of living in Scotland is generally lower than in other parts of the UK, with average monthly expenses for a single person around $1,962, though cities like Edinburgh can be more expensive. The climate is temperate and oceanic, often changeable but rarely extreme, with average winter lows around 0°C and summer highs averaging 15-17°C. Scottish people are often described as friendly, patriotic, practical, and forthright, with a strong sense of community and a love for their arts and traditions.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 30% | 23.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $49,000 Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 3.8% | 56.8 | 20% | 11.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.1% Job growth rate: 1.9% | 55.3 | 15% | 8.3 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 10% | 7.5 |
| Overall score | 64.0 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 3 (deep think) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Edinburgh is notably higher than the Scottish national average, driven largely by high housing demand and tourist-heavy central districts. While everyday expenses like groceries and utilities align reasonably well with UK norms, rent and property purchases command a premium due to the city's geographical constraints and strict preservation laws. However, salaries in key sectors like finance, tech, and education frequently help offset these elevated living costs.
Income
Salary Insights
Edinburgh boasts one of the most resilient and dynamic economies in the UK outside of London, anchored by a powerful financial services sector, thriving tech startups, and a booming tourism industry. Major employers ranging from global banking institutions to innovative software firms provide robust career opportunities for skilled professionals. Additionally, the city supports a strong remote and hybrid work culture, with numerous flexible workspaces scattered throughout the center.
The average salary in Edinburgh is $52,000 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Edinburgh is highly efficient thanks to an award-winning bus network operated by Lothian Buses and an expanding tram line connecting the airport to the city center. The city's compact, historic layout makes it exceptionally walkable for pedestrians, though drivers often navigate narrow cobbled streets and strict parking regulations. Cycling infrastructure continues to improve, making active travel a viable and increasingly popular option for daily commuters.
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