Moving to Cambridge offers the opportunity to live in one of the UK's most historic and innovative cities. Known for its world-renowned universities, thriving life sciences sector and beautiful green spaces, Cambridge attracts families, professionals and students from across the country and beyond.
If you're relocating for work, study or a fresh start, planning ahead can make your move much less stressful. From choosing the right neighbourhood to organising your move and settling into your new home, there are plenty of things to consider before moving day.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about living in Cambridge, including the cost of living, local attractions, practical moving tips and how self storage can make your move easier.
Why Move to Cambridge?
Cambridge is consistently recognised as one of the UK's most desirable places to live. While it's best known for the University of Cambridge, the city has also become a leading hub for science and technology. Combined with its historic architecture, excellent transport links and vibrant community, it's easy to see why so many people choose to relocate here.
Some of the biggest reasons people move to Cambridge include:
Home to the world-renowned University of Cambridge
A growing life sciences and technology sector with excellent career opportunities
Anglia Ruskin University, attracting students from across the UK and overseas
Direct train services to London and strong transport links across Cambridgeshire
A historic city centre with independent shops, cafés and restaurants
Beautiful green spaces including Jesus Green and riverside walks along the River Cam
A wide range of housing options for families, professionals and students
If you're looking for career opportunities, access to higher education or a better quality of life, Cambridge offers a unique combination of history, innovation and community.
What Is It Like Living in Cambridge?
Cambridge combines the convenience of a modern city with the charm of a historic university town. Despite its global reputation, it's compact enough to explore on foot or by bicycle, making everyday life both convenient and enjoyable.
Each neighbourhood offers something slightly different, so it's worth considering your lifestyle, commute and budget before deciding where to live.
Area | Best For | Highlights |
City Centre | Professionals | Historic streets, shopping, restaurants and excellent walkability |
Chesterton | Families | Residential streets, parks and local schools |
Trumpington | Commuters | Modern developments and excellent transport links |
Cherry Hinton | Families and first-time buyers | Good value housing and local amenities |
Eddington | University staff and professionals | Contemporary homes close to the University of Cambridge |
Living in Cambridge also means enjoying excellent transport connections. Cambridge railway station provides regular services to London, while major road links connect the city with the rest of Cambridgeshire and the wider East of England.
The city is equally well known for its parks, open spaces and cultural attractions, giving residents plenty to enjoy outside of work or study.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Cambridge?
Cambridge has a relatively high cost of living. Strong employment opportunities, excellent schools and a world-renowned university continue to attract new residents.
Before moving, it's worth budgeting for your main monthly expenses. Here is info from the Office for National Statistics.
Expense | Typical Cost |
Average House Price | £467,000 (May 2026 average) |
Average Monthly Rent | £1,804 per month (June 2026 average) |
Council Tax | Band D: £2,467.02 per year (2026/27) |
Utilities | Electricity, gas, water and broadband vary depending on your property, household size and supplier. |
Transport | Many residents walk or cycle, helping reduce commuting costs. Cambridge also has regular bus and rail connections. |
According to the Office for National Statistics, the average house price in Cambridge was £467,000 in May 2026, while the average private rent reached £1,804 per month in June 2026.
Planning your finances before moving to Cambridge can help you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected costs during your relocation.
Things to Do After Moving to Cambridge
Once you've settled into your new home, it's time to discover everything Cambridge has to offer. From historic landmarks to relaxing green spaces, there's something for everyone.
Attraction | Why Visit |
Fitzwilliam Museum | Explore world-class art, history and archaeological collections. |
Jesus Green | Enjoy riverside walks, picnics and outdoor recreation. |
Cambridge University Botanic Garden | Discover over 8,000 plant species across beautiful, landscaped gardens. |
Market Square | Browse independent stalls, fresh produce and local cafés. |
River Cam | Experience punting, scenic walks and cycling routes along the river. |
Whether you enjoy history, culture or spending time outdoors, Cambridge offers an excellent balance between city living and open green spaces.
Your Moving House Checklist
Moving house is much easier when you plan ahead. Breaking your move into smaller tasks can help you stay organised and reduce last-minute stress.
8 Weeks Before Moving
Start preparing as early as possible.
Confirm your moving date
Book a removals company if needed
Declutter each room
Donate, recycle or sell unwanted items
Arrange a storage unit if you need extra space
Begin collecting packing materials
4 Weeks Before Moving
Now is the time to start packing items you don't use every day.
Pack seasonal clothing and decorations
Notify utility providers about your move
Update your address with banks and service providers
Arrange mail redirection
Label boxes by room
2 Weeks Before Moving
As moving day gets closer, finalise the remaining arrangements.
Confirm your removals booking
Pack most household items
Prepare an essentials box
Defrost your freezer if needed
Confirm key collection arrangements
Moving Day
Keep important documents, medication and valuables with you throughout the move.
Before leaving your old property:
Check every room and cupboard
Take meter readings
Lock all windows and doors
Leave any agreed keys behind
Planning ahead and following a moving house checklist can make your move into Cambridge much more manageable.
How Can Self Storage Make Moving House Easier?
Not every move goes exactly to plan. Completion dates can change; renovations may take longer than expected and your new home may not have enough space straight away. Self storage gives you the flexibility to manage these situations without feeling rushed.
Best For: Moving Between Properties
If you're waiting for contracts to complete or your moving dates don't quite line up, a storage unit provides a secure place to keep your belongings until you're ready to move in.
Best For: Downsizing
Moving to a smaller property doesn't always mean you have to part with everything at once. Self storage gives you time to decide what to keep, sell or donate.
Best For: Renovating Before You Move In
Many homeowners choose to decorate before unpacking. Using storage when moving house keeps your furniture clean and protected while work is completed.
Best For: Students Moving to Cambridge
Students attending the University of Cambridge or Anglia Ruskin University often need temporary storage between accommodation contracts or during the summer holidays. Flexible student storage makes this simple.
What Size Storage Unit Do You Need?
Choosing the right storage unit helps ensure you only pay for the space you need. Storage King Cambridge offers units ranging from 10 sq ft lockers to 1,000 sq ft, making it easy to find the right size for your belongings.
Unit Size | Ideal For |
10-25 sq ft | Boxes, suitcases, seasonal items, sports equipment and small furniture. |
30-75 sq ft | Contents of a one-bedroom flat, including furniture, appliances and household boxes. |
80-150 sq ft | Furniture and belongings from a two to three-bedroom home, ideal during house moves or renovations. |
170-300 sq ft | Contents of a larger family home, including bulky furniture, appliances and outdoor equipment. |
375-1,000 sq ft | Complete household contents, large home moves, extensive renovations or long-term storage.
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If you're unsure which size is right, use our online storage unit size estimator or speak with the Storage King Cambridge team for expert advice.
Why Choose Storage King Cambridge?
Whether you're moving house, renovating or simply need extra space, Storage King Cambridge offers secure and flexible storage designed to make the process easier.
Located on Coldhams Lane, our modern facility provides convenient access for customers across Cambridge and the surrounding area.
Our facility offers:
More than 22 storage unit sizes
Flexible contracts for short- and long-term storage
Secure alarmed storage units
Gated reception
24-hour monitored CCTV
Covered loading bay
Keypad entry system
Deliveries accepted
Free Van hire
Document shredding
Managed office space
4.8-star Google rating
Whether you're looking for moving house storage tips, temporary storage while renovating or somewhere to keep your belongings between properties, our experienced team can help you choose the right storage solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambridge a Good Place to Live?
Yes. Cambridge combines excellent career opportunities, highly regarded universities, beautiful green spaces and excellent transport links, making it one of the UK's most desirable places to live.
Where Can I Store My Furniture While Moving House in Cambridge?
Storage King Cambridge offers secure, flexible personal storage for homeowners who need temporary storage while moving, renovating or downsizing.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need When Moving House?
The right size depends on how much you're storing. A small unit may be enough for boxes and furniture from one room, while larger moves may require significantly more space. Our online storage unit size estimator can help you choose.
Can Students Use Self Storage in Cambridge?
Yes. Our student storage is ideal for students moving between accommodation, studying abroad or storing belongings during university holidays.
Do I Need Short-Term or Long-Term Storage?
Storage King Cambridge offers flexible rental agreements, so you can store your belongings for as little or as long as you need.
Key Takeaways
Planning makes moving to Cambridge simpler and less stressful.
Cambridge offers excellent career opportunities, outstanding universities and beautiful green spaces.
A detailed moving checklist helps keep your move organised.
Self storage provides a flexible solution when moving, renovating or downsizing.
Storage King Cambridge offers secure storage, flexible contracts and more than 22 unit sizes to support your move.
Get a Quote for Moving Storage in Cambridge
Moving home is a major milestone, but having the right support can make all the difference. Whether you're relocating for work, study or a fresh start, Storage King Cambridge offers secure, flexible storage to help you manage your move with confidence.
From temporary storage between properties to extra space while you unpack or renovate, our team is here to help. Visit our Storage King Cambridge store, explore our personal storage and student storage solutions, or use our online size estimator to find the right unit for your needs.
With more than 22 storage unit sizes, flexible rental options, free van hire for eligible customers and regular discounts* available on selected storage units, Storage King Cambridge makes moving house that little bit easier.
*Terms and conditions apply.
