Local area guide

Living in Oxford

Thinking about moving to Oxford? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools and transport connections are like - and of course the most important thing of all: how much houses cost to buy.

Your guide to moving to Oxford

Why Oxford is a good place to live

Oxford is a city that brings together the charm of historical architecture with a thriving modern metropolis.

Crammed with bookshops, museums, cafes and beautiful old university buildings dating back to the 14th century, Oxford offers some of the world's finest cultural experiences, alongside top notch restaurants and great shopping too.

The city is steeped in centuries of academic prestige, with the beautiful old University of Oxford buildings dotted throughout.

Surrounded by vast green spaces, including Port Meadow, Grandpont and Binsey, the River Thames and River Cherwell also run through it, and are great for a spot of punting.

The city's prime location in south east England means it has excellent transport links to other parts of the country, making travelling a breeze.

What's Oxford famous for?

Oxford is undeniably most famous for its university, one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the world.

Its stunning architecture and dreaming spires have inspired many notable authors, including C.S. Lewis, Charles Dickens and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Harry Potter fans will also be delighted to know several scenes from the movies were filmed here.

Oxford's Ashmolean Museum is another noteworthy point of interest, being respected globally for its diverse collections from various continents and cultures.

Things to do in Oxford

In Oxford, there's always something to explore. You could delve into history by exploring the University of Oxford's colleges, libraries and museums, themselves architectural marvels.

A visit to the iconic Bodleian Library is enriching for literary enthusiasts, while the Ashmolean Museum offers a glimpse into various civilizations.

Punting on the River Cherwell is a must-do on a summer's afternoon.

The city's diverse restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs cater to all tastes and often offer spectacular views of the city.

Take in a live performances at the Oxford Playhouse or the New Theatre, or wind down from a busy day by enjoying the city's skyline from one of the many big and beautiful parks.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.