Edinburgh property: are buyers and renters falling back in love with the city centre?

Sponsored content 

Property website, ESPC, has been a ‘go-to’ resource for buying, selling, renting and letting property for more than half a century – here it takes a look at renewed demand for Edinburgh’s city centre, as hybrid working patterns evolve and city life regains its buzz.

After years of pandemic-induced shifts towards suburban living and home offices, many people are rediscovering the joys of city-centre life.

In Edinburgh, this notable resurgence is clear. From January to June 2025, ESPC data shows that sales volumes in the New Town have increased by 23.8 per cent, while the Old Town’s average selling price is up by 4.5 per cent. Stockbridge also shows strong growth, with sales volumes up 7.3 per cent and average selling prices jumping by an impressive 19.2 per cent compared to last year.

Why the renewed appeal? Firstly, the gradual end of fully remote working has brought city life back to the forefront. While hybrid working remains common, many businesses are encouraging more frequent office days, making proximity to professional hubs an important factor once again. Edinburgh’s city centre, with its easy access to corporate offices, co-working spaces and excellent public transport, supports this transition seamlessly.

Additionally, the city centre’s cultural offering continues to attract buyers and renters seeking vibrancy on their doorstep. From sophisticated cocktail bars in the New Town to charming Old Town pubs, Edinburgh’s city centre suits a range of personal tastes. The ability to finish work and meet friends for dinner or drinks just a few minutes’ walk away is also a lifestyle advantage that suburban and rural living simply cannot offer.

Community atmosphere is also a significant driver. Despite Edinburgh city centre’s global reputation, neighbourhoods maintain a village-like feel. Stockbridge epitomises this with artisan delis and a thriving Sunday market. In the Old Town, the historic tenements create a charming ambience that few UK cities can rival.

Importantly, Edinburgh City Centre Transformation Strategy is playing a role in this revival. Its focus on creating greener, safer, more pedestrian-friendly streets is reshaping how locals interact with their environment. Plans to reduce car dominance, widen pavements, enhance cycling infrastructure and increase public spaces are all making city-centre living more attractive for residents seeking health, wellbeing and convenience alongside urban dynamism.

The hybrid working shift is supporting this trend too. Workers who go into the office two or three days a week appreciate the greater flexibility of living in the city, balancing their days at home with access to professional facilities and social vibrancy when in the workplace.

Ultimately, Edinburgh city centre offers global connectivity, architectural beauty, rich history and a strong sense of community.

With a range of attractions, including walks along the Water of Leith, shopping in the New Town and the Old Town’s hidden bars, city-centre living in Edinburgh has increased in appeal. For buyers and investors, these market trends and lifestyle shifts signal an enduring and growing demand for a place in the heart of Scotland’s capital.