Why North Americans Should Consider Scotland for an Affordable, Scenic Life

Scotland
Scotland’s landscapes offer history, charm, and a relaxed way of life.|©iStock/TomasSereda

Scotland may be small compared to the U.S., but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From its dramatic landscapes to its turbulent history, Scotland draws people in for all kinds of reasons. With so much to discover, it’s the perfect place to slow down, take it all in, and enjoy life at a more relaxed pace.

What Does Scotland Have to Offer?

Scotland—the land of great glens, romantic ruins, and… Jamie Fraser! OK, you may have trouble locating the last one, but you’ll find the rest in abundance. With its high quality of life, safe environment, excellent healthcare, and affordability compared to the U.S., it’s no wonder this country captures the imagination and feels like the perfect place to call home. But what exactly makes Scotland such a compelling choice?

Free Prescriptions and World-Class Healthcare

Scotland’s National Health Service (NHS) provides free prescriptions for all residents, unlike other parts of the U.K. You’ll have access to cutting-edge medical research in Edinburgh and Glasgow, especially in areas like oncology and neurology. Scotland invests heavily in mental health services and holistic care, making it an excellent choice for wellness-focused lifestyles.

Where Beauty Meets Affordability

Property prices in Scotland are generally lower than in England and the U.S. You’ll find opportunities to own stone-built cottages, Victorian flats, or even remote island properties at a fraction of U.S. home prices. Government initiatives, like the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), make homeownership more accessible compared to U.S. property taxes.

Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes invite adventure and tranquility.
Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes invite adventure and tranquility.|©iStock/Catuncia
Access to Free Education

If you’re considering relocating with children, state-funded education in Scotland is free, and higher education tuition fees are covered for eligible students. To qualify, you must meet residency requirements, including living in Scotland for three years or more. There is also a strong emphasis on lifelong learning, with free or subsidized adult education programs readily available.

‘Right to Roam’ Law

If you’re planning to visit all of those Outlander locations you’ve only ever seen on screen, you’ll be happy to know that Scotland has a ‘Right to Roam’ law that allows everyone to access most of the land and lochs for recreational activities such as hiking and wild camping. For history lovers, Scotland is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns.

Strong Support for Sustainability

Protecting the planet is a top priority in Scotland. The country is a global leader in renewable energy and eco-friendly living, with plans to reach net-zero emissions by 2045. If sustainable living is a priority for you, this is the perfect place to build a greener lifestyle.

Excellent Public Transportation

Scotland has a reliable public transport network that will even get you to the most remote places. Buses and trains connect small towns to the major cities, while ferries make island hopping possible. Five large international airports make flying an easy option, with Edinburgh and Glasgow both offering direct flights to U.S. cities. Weekend getaways to Europe are also within reach. There’s a huge network of roads, and its cities are highly walkable. Just remember to drive on the left!

Where to Live in Scotland

Scotland’s rich history is seen in its castles and ancient landmarks.
Scotland’s rich history is seen in its castles and ancient landmarks.|©iStock/godrick

Scotland’s landscapes are the perfect place to unwind and take the time to appreciate its expansive coastline. And with 790 islands, many of which are uninhabited, you won’t run out of places to explore. Larger islands like Islay—ideal for whisky lovers—or Harris, with its Caribbean-esque beaches, as well as Skye, Orkney, and Mull, are all easily accessible with regular ferries or short flights.

The rugged peaks of the Highlands, along with iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Ben Nevis, are just a few must-see destinations. For a livelier experience, hundreds of cultural events and festivals take place each year, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Highland Games, which attract visitors from across the globe.

Whether you’re seeking the convenience of city life or prefer rural tranquility, the hardest part will be choosing where to make your home. It’s worth noting that buying a house in Scotland differs from the rest of the U.K., and the legal process is different.

City Living

Edinburgh

One of my favorite cities, brimming with history, culture, and plenty to see and do within its city walls. The Scottish capital offers a high quality of life and is home to a significant American expat community. However, the cost of living is relatively high, with average monthly expenses of around $2,246.

Glasgow

Larger than Edinburgh, Glasgow has a thriving music and art scene and a more affordable cost of living compared to Edinburgh, with average monthly expenses around $2,013. There are excellent education opportunities here, as the city is home to three top universities.

Small-Town Living
Charming small towns provide a perfect balance of community and nature.
Charming small towns provide a perfect balance of community and nature.|©iStock/georgeclerk

Many of Scotland’s smaller towns offer a great compromise if you’re looking for community and amenities without the bustle of city life.

St. Andrews

Famous for its university and as the “Home of Golf,” St. Andrews is a coastal town situated on the east coast, just 30 miles south of Dundee. It’s a picturesque town with a large student population, and it’s within easy reach of Edinburgh.

Inverness

As the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, the main draw of Inverness is its proximity to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area. Also near many historic sites, including Culloden, it’s the perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor adventure and a close-knit community. Average living expenses: $1,830.

Aberdeen

The “Granite City” is situated on the northeast coast, north of Dundee and not far from Balmoral—The Royal Family residence. It has a strong economy, particularly in the energy sector, making it ideal for those looking for a balance between work opportunities and quality of life. Average cost of living: $1,701.

Stirling

Rich in history, the peaceful town of Stirling is home to landmarks like Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument. An equal distance from Glasgow and Edinburgh, it also has an excellent university. A great balance between urban and rural living, with a lower cost of living, averaging $1,625 per month.

North Berwick

This seaside town, also situated on the east coast and not too far from the English border, was named the best place to live in Scotland in 2024 by The Sunday Times, thanks to its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and picturesque town center.

Far from the Beaten Path
With 790 islands, Scotland offers endless coastal beauty to explore.
With 790 islands, Scotland offers endless coastal beauty to explore. |©iStock/Nicola Colombo

And if you want to pop off the grid, consider remote island life on Skye or Orkney.

Isle of Skye

Living on Skye provides a serene lifestyle for most of the year, with landmarks like the Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr to explore. However, the island becomes extremely crowded during peak tourist season.

Orkney Islands

With a rich archaeological heritage, this group of islands off Scotland’s northern coast is known for its high quality of life and strong community ties. Not as remote as the Shetland Islands, but be prepared for a calm and peaceful way of life.

Visas and Residency in Post-Brexit Scotland

Once you’ve found your ideal place, you need to consider what kind of visa or residency permit you’ll need. Depending on how long you’re planning to stay in Scotland, here’s a basic overview of the types of visas available:

Tourist Visits

From January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Scotland. The ETA costs £10, is valid for two years or until your passport expires, and allows stays of up to six months. Applications can be completed online or via a mobile app, and decisions are typically made within three working days.

Work Visas

There are several work visas you can apply for in Scotland:

  • Skilled Worker Visa: For jobs on the eligible occupations list that meet salary thresholds.

  • Health and Care Worker Visa: For healthcare professionals with a job offer from the NHS or an approved employer.

Both require a Certificate of Sponsorship from a registered employer. Detailed information on these visas can be found on the UK government’s official website.

Ancestry Visa

Available if you have a grandparent born in the U.K. This visa is valid for five years, with the option to apply for permanent residence afterward.

Other Visas

Student, Graduate, and Family visas are available for those pursuing education, post-graduation work opportunities, or joining family members who are British citizens. These visas come with specific eligibility criteria and requirements.

Cost of Living in Scotland

Living in Scotland is more affordable than many U.S. cities.
Living in Scotland is more affordable than many U.S. cities.|©iStock/Guven Ozdemir

In general, the cost of living in Scotland is lower than in the U.S. Renting a property is around 28.7% lower. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of a Scottish city like Edinburgh averages around $1,580 per month, whereas a similar apartment in a U.S. city like Washington, D.C. averages about $1,813 per month. Keep in mind that Edinburgh is one of the most expensive places to live in Scotland.

This difference evens out with basic utility costs. For example, monthly utilities in Scotland average $294, compared to $206 in the U.S., making them about 42.7% higher. Grocery prices, however, are around 25.6% lower than in the U.S., with items like bread, rice, and fresh produce generally more affordable.

Is Scotland Calling You?

Does Scotland sound like it could be your next destination? Of course, no article about Scotland is complete without mentioning its infamous weather. Yes, it rains a lot—especially on the West Coast—and winters in the North can be pretty chilly, but that’s all part of its charm.

The best way to know for sure is to research the places that catch your eye and visit them to get a sense of what life might be like. There’s a lot to consider, from finding the right spot to understanding Scotland’s unique laws. But there are plenty of reasons why North Americans should consider making Scotland their new home.

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