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Are People Choosing Well-Being Over Location When Moving?
July 8, 2025 · News

Reasons Why People are Trading the City for Bigger Properties in Matlock

A growing trend has emerged over recent years, with people relocating from larger cities to smaller towns and rural areas. London and other major urban centres are losing residents, many of whom are heading off in search of something more fulfilling. For many, that means a better quality of life—larger homes with gardens, more space, and a stronger connection to nature.

Matlock has become a prime destination for people looking to make this kind of change. Our team collaborates with several local removals companies every week, assisting newcomers in settling into their new homes. With exciting developments underway and a range of properties available, you’re bound to find something that suits your lifestyle and budget. And when it comes to logistics, Matlock Storage’s services play a valuable role in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Contents

  1. Why Are People Leaving London and Other Urban Centres?
  2. Finding the Ideal Property in Matlock
  3. The Benefits of Self Storage when Moving Home
  4. Cost of Living Benefits When Moving to Matlock
  5. Why Matlock Is Perfect for Remote Workers

Why Are People Leaving London and Other Urban Centres?

While recent increases in living costs have prompted many people to reconsider where and how they want to live, this shift away from cities is a trend that has been unfolding over the past few years. Urban life can be fast-paced and expensive, often coming with compromises such as limited space, high rents, and reduced access to green areas. That’s why many people are swapping London for smaller towns like Matlock.

The Draw of a Slower Pace

Increasingly, people are weighing these downsides and opting for smaller towns or rural locations instead. The desire for outdoor space, a quieter lifestyle, and a stronger sense of community has driven many to seek a fresh start elsewhere.

Londoners Leading the Move

In particular, Londoners are leading the charge, prioritising quality of life over proximity to a city office, especially now that remote and hybrid working have become the norm. Many city dwellers want more value for their hard-earned money, and Matlock and the surrounding towns, such as Chesterfield and Bakewell, offer opportunities to buy detached houses with change left over.

Finding the Ideal Property in Matlock

For those seeking a more peaceful and spacious lifestyle, Matlock ticks all the boxes. Leaving behind a crowded city doesn’t have to mean compromising on career or comfort—in fact, it often opens the door to a more balanced and enjoyable way of life. And with any major relocation, self storage can be a useful resource at different stages of the move.

Support for Long-Distance Moves

We know the storage industry inside and out, and we regularly assist people relocating from larger cities across the south and beyond. For those used to city-centre flats with minimal living space, the appeal of a bigger property with outdoor access is clear. Young professionals, growing families, and retirees alike are making the move and finding what they need here in Derbyshire.

Property Choice and Growing Demand

Matlock itself continues to evolve. New developments like Matlock Spa are generating a lot of interest, alongside the town’s existing mix of period homes, modern builds, and countryside cottages. Whether you’re seeking a spacious new-build or a character-filled traditional home, Matlock offers far better value than you’ll find in most major cities.

The Benefits of Self Storage when Moving Home

Self storage is helpful at almost every stage of the moving process. If there’s a gap between leaving one home and moving into the next, storage provides a safe and affordable place to keep your belongings in the meantime.

Smoother Transitions to a New Home

Having your items already in Matlock makes things much simpler when you’re ready to move in. Storage is also helpful if you’ve decluttered before selling and have items you’re not ready to part with but don’t need immediately.

Safe, Reliable Storage You Can Trust

At Matlock Storage, we offer total peace of mind. Our units are condensation-safe, fireproof, and secured with industry-leading systems and protocols. Whether you’re storing household items or business assets, we’ll help you choose the right option for your situation. With decades of experience and a strong local reputation, we’re here to make your relocation as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Cost of Living Benefits When Moving to Matlock

Matlock offers exceptional value for individuals and families seeking to escape the high costs of urban life. From housing to everyday expenses, this Peak District town provides financial breathing space without sacrificing lifestyle quality.

Lower Property Prices Than the City

House prices in Matlock are significantly lower than those in London and other areas in southern England. Here’s a quick average price comparison (all property types combined):

Larger properties with gardens are more attainable for first-time buyers and growing families. You can often buy outright in Matlock for the same price as a one-bed flat in the capital:

  • Detached house in Matlock – £418,572
  • Apartment in London – £506,550.

Reduced Daily Living Expenses

Council tax rates are typically lower in Derbyshire than in inner-city boroughs, but there are exceptions, such as Wandsworth. You can read more about council tax bands for Matlock here to cross-reference. Car ownership becomes more viable due to lower parking charges and less congestion, and public transport options remain affordable and reliable for local travel.

Due to its relatively small size, there isn’t much data for living costs specifically for Matlock. However, if we compare the city of Derby with London, you’ll save approximately 21% overall of all costs. Matlock’s general living costs are similar to Derby’s, but we recommend you arrange a visit to Matlock to compare various expenses.

Affordable Leisure and Recreation

Walking, cycling, and hiking in the surrounding countryside are free and widely accessible. Community events and village fairs provide low-cost social opportunities throughout the year. Local gyms, swimming pools, and leisure centres are often more affordable than their urban equivalents.

Remote Work and Lifestyle Flexibility

Lower living costs allow people to reduce their working hours or shift careers, presenting opportunities for flexible working patterns. Professionals can convert spare rooms or garden buildings into home offices to work remotely or on hybrid schedules.

More for Your Money, Long-Term

Utility costs are often lower in newer or better-insulated homes. With more options to retrofit older properties, achieving the same cost savings becomes possible. Additionally, having more access to garden space means that growing your own produce becomes an option. The ability to invest in property rather than rent leads to greater long-term security.

Why Matlock Is Perfect for Remote Workers

Matlock has become an attractive base for remote workers seeking a peaceful yet connected environment. With reliable internet and inspiring natural surroundings, it supports both productivity and wellbeing. If you’re considering changing to remote or hybrid working patterns, this checklist will help you set everything up.

Remote Working Essentials in Matlock

  • Fast fibre internet coverage makes video calls and remote systems easy to manage.
  • Many homes offer enough space to dedicate a full room to a home office.
  • Quiet neighbourhoods and scenic surroundings reduce everyday stress.
  • Commuter fatigue is eliminated, freeing up time for family, exercise, or hobbies.
  • Derbyshire air quality and green views support better focus and energy.
  • Coworking options are growing locally for those seeking social workspaces.
  • Local cafés offer strong Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere for working away from home.
  • Matlock Library offers quiet study areas and free internet access.
  • Access to nearby train stations allows for flexible hybrid working when needed.
  • Shorter school runs and easier childcare arrangements help working parents balance both their professional and personal lives.
  • Self storage is optional for businesses with physical products or individuals setting up a spare room as an office.

Benefits of Remote Work in Matlock

More professionals are realising they don’t need to be in the city to do their job effectively. Matlock provides all the ingredients for a productive remote working setup, without the drawbacks of urban living.

Matlock Storage – The Peak District’s Favourite Self Storage Company

If you’re one of the tens of thousands of city-dwellers relocating nearby, we’re here for you, all the way, every day. Our domestic and business storage options make it possible for you to move with confidence.

We work with hundreds of removals companies and will gladly make a professional referral if you’re not sure who to trust. Our team is familiar with the process and will gladly liaise with your removals providers to ensure a seamless, integrated service. Matlock Storage has customers from all over the Derbyshire Dales due to our excellent customer service – why not become one yourself and discover why we’re so highly rated?

If you’re looking for a reputable self storage service to help with your upcoming relocation, please click here for an online quote or contact us for more information. We are here to help make this year a fresh start for you and your loved ones.

ill gladly make a professional referral if you’re not sure who to trust. Our team knows how the process works and will happily liaise with your removals providers for a seamless, integrated service. Matlock has customers from all over the Derbyshire Dales due to our excellent customer service – why not become one yourself and discover why we’re so highly rated?

If you’re looking for a reputable self storage service to help with your upcoming relocation, please contact us today. We are here to help make 2021 a fresh start for you and your loved ones.