Selfridges Manchester
BuyingLettingLifestyleRenting Published 18 November 2025 5 MIN

Living in Manchester: Settio’s Neighbourhood Guide

Explore the city’s most exciting districts, from luxury high-rises to creative communities, and find the Manchester home that suits your lifestyle.

Manchester city centre is full of energy, character and creativity, and at Settio, we’re lucky enough to help hundreds of residents find their place within it every year. Each neighbourhood has its own identity, community and lifestyle, and understanding these differences is key to helping our clients choose the perfect home. Here’s our take on the areas we know best.

Deansgate — M3, M15

Deansgate is the heartbeat of the city. Sleek towers, iconic architecture and a mix of premium apartments create a truly modern urban lifestyle. It’s one of the most in-demand locations we work in because everything is right on the doorstep: transport, restaurants, independent cafés and some of the best views in Manchester.
Professionals love the energy here; it’s vibrant from morning to night, and developments around the New Jackson area have firmly positioned this neighbourhood as the centre of luxury city living.

Deansgate Towers

Ancoats — M4

Ancoats has evolved into one of the most talked-about neighbourhoods in the UK, and for good reason. Once an industrial powerhouse, the area has transformed into one of the trendiest and most desirable places to live, with beautifully converted mills sitting alongside modern developments, independent eateries and creative workspaces. It’s no surprise that Ancoats has also been voted one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods by Time Out, featuring in their annual “World’s Coolest Neighbourhoods” list.

We’re huge fans of its independent food scene, from iconic pizza restaurants to artisan bakeries and its strong sense of community. Walkable, sociable and full of personality, Ancoats blends creativity with comfort, offering a relaxed yet stylish lifestyle that appeals to residents who want character, culture and convenience all in one place.

A street in Ancoats

Northern Quarter — M1, M4

The Northern Quarter remains Manchester’s creative soul. Street art, vintage stores, record shops and independent venues shape the unmistakable identity of this district.
It’s a place for people who want something a little different. Homes here are full of charm and individuality, and the surrounding cafés, bars and boutiques give everyday life a real sense of discovery. Artists, freelancers and creatives naturally gravitate towards the Northern Quarter because no two streets feel the same.

Street in the Northern Quarter

Castlefield — M15

Castlefield is where history meets calm, canal-side living. Cobblestones, converted warehouses and waterside walkways give this neighbourhood a slower pace while still being moments from the city core. Many of our residents choose Castlefield when they want greenery, space and character without sacrificing convenience. With larger apartments, peaceful surroundings and a strong community feel, it’s one of the most picturesque corners of Manchester.

Castlefield Canal

Greengate — M3

Greengate has quickly become a hotspot for modern city-centre living. Just steps from Manchester Cathedral and the Arndale, this area offers impressive new towers, landscaped spaces and a clean, contemporary feel. We love its fresh energy, stunning high-rises, excellent amenities and outstanding value for money compared to neighbouring districts. With excellent access to both Manchester and Salford, Greengate is ideal for professionals seeking stylish living with unbeatable convenience.

Greengate Area

Thinking About Renting or Buying in Manchester?

We’d love to help you find the perfect place. Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of Deansgate, the creativity of the Northern Quarter, the calm of Castlefield, or the modern living in Greengate and Ancoats, Settio can guide you through the best options on the market. 

Get in touch with Settio, your ideal Manchester home is waiting.

Author:

Marcus Dobson