New Town
Georgian grandeur meets modern city living
About New Town
Built between 1765 and 1850 as Edinburgh expanded beyond the cramped Old Town, the New Town is the city's architectural crown jewel. George Street, once the main commercial spine, is now lined with upscale bars and restaurants. Princes Street to the south offers department stores with unbeatable views of the Castle. Behind the main streets, quiet residential crescents and gardens feel almost suburban in their calm. Charlotte Square is one of the UK's finest public spaces. This is where Edinburgh's lawyers, consultants, and senior professionals tend to land. The trade-off: it's expensive, and the rental market is tight. But for central living with genuine grandeur, nothing else in Edinburgh competes.
Neighbourhood vibes
Rental prices
Typical market rates 2025Scottish law note: All rentals use a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT). No fixed-term end date can force you to leave — only a valid notice to leave with a legal ground applies. SafeDeposits Scotland holds your deposit independently.
✓Why people love it
- ✓George Street bars and restaurants
- ✓Charlotte Square and private gardens
- ✓Thistle Street independent boutiques
- ✓Scottish National Portrait Gallery (free)
- ✓Princes Street Gardens
- ✓Harvey Nichols and Multrees Walk
- ✓Assembly Rooms events venue
!Things to know
- ⚠Among the most expensive areas in Edinburgh
- ⚠Very busy with tourists in Old Town immediately to the south
- ⚠On-street parking requires permit and is competitive
- ⚠Some flats are top-floor tenements with no lift
Getting around
Who is New Town best for?
Scottish council tax bands differ from England. Students are fully exempt — contact City of Edinburgh Council to apply. Single occupancy gets 25% off. Check your specific property band at mygov.scot.