Sheffield has been named the best city in England to raise a child, according to a new study by Outdoortoys, which ranked cities across green spaces, school quality and more.
The Yorkshire city topped the list with an overall rating of 7.32, beating Oxford and Cambridge. The rating was derived from assessing cities across seven essential categories: green space per resident, family-friendly attractions, educational costs, weather conditions, rainfall levels, crime statistics, and school performance.
Green spaces and affordability
What distinguished Sheffield most prominently amongst its rivals was the abundance of green spaces available for youngsters to enjoy the outdoors – averaging 1,686 sqm per person. In practical terms, this translates to children having more neighbourhood parks, greater space for after-school activities, and fewer restrictions on outdoor time compared to any other city examined.
Childcare costs in Sheffield stand at approximately £918 monthly, though it wasn't the most affordable city in this category. The most economical location for childcare was actually Stoke on Trent, yet Sheffield still featured within the top five.
Crime rates and local views
According to the research, crime levels in Manchester, identified as the most challenging location in which to raise a child, reach 145 incidents per 1,000 people across the city, sitting considerably above the study's average. Sheffield's crime rate came in at 99, placing it at number six in that particular category.
On Reddit, one local shared: "Sheffield is a cool city. Lots to do. Interesting history. I like the easy access to the Peak District. And from a southerner's point of view, it's really affordable. Cheap pints!"
A fellow local added: "Moved here from down south about 25 years ago. Love it. Great place to bring up your kids; little violence; amazing surrounding countryside; has a small-town feel in that I can't walk through the centre without bumping into someone I know."
Top neighbourhoods and full ranking
Across Reddit, the neighbourhoods most frequently praised as desirable areas to reside within the city include Nether Edge and Sharrow Vale, celebrated as a vibrant, walkable district boasting independent cafés and excellent schools. Crookes and Fulwood also receive frequent mentions as a welcoming destination, renowned for its strong sense of community.
The full ranking of best cities to raise a child in England is: Sheffield, Milton Keynes, Swindon, Cambridge, Peterborough, Oxford, Warrington, Sunderland, Stoke-on-Trent, and Portsmouth.
