Moving to Fife – Everything You Should Know Before You Move
Thinking about living in Scotland and moving to Fife?
Fife is a council area and its largest settlement is the city of Dunfermline, while the administrative centre is Glenrothes.
Currently, it has a resident population of 374,760 in 2024, making it Scotland’s 3rd largest local authority area by population.
Locals are affectionately called “Fifers.”
Known as the “Kingdom of Fife,” this historic region lies between the Firth of Tay and the Firth of Forth and has long been known as one of Scotland’s most desirable places to live.
From charming fishing villages along the East Neuk to the bustling university town of St Andrews, Fife combines coastal beauty, cultural richness, and a surprisingly affordable housing market.
Add in excellent schools, a strong job market, and great commuter links to Edinburgh, Dundee, and Perth, and you’ll quickly see why so many people are choosing removals to Fife.
Our moving to Fife guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to the region in 2025, from housing and jobs to lifestyle and local highlights.
A Region with Royal Roots and Coastal Character
Discover Fife’s rich history, from ancient capitals to charming fishing villages along Scotland’s iconic coastline.
Fife has always been at the heart of Scottish history.
Once home to Dunfermline, the medieval capital of Scotland, the region has strong royal connections, with St Andrews Cathedral and Falkland Palace drawing visitors year-round.
But history is only part of the story.
Modern Fife is a vibrant mix of old and new, with picturesque fishing villages like Anstruther and Crail sitting alongside thriving towns such as Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, and Dunfermline.
Living here means enjoying some of Scotland’s most iconic coastlines, award-winning beaches, and a proud cultural identity that blends heritage with modern life.
Affordable Housing with a Range of Choices
Explore Fife’s attractive property market, offering excellent value for money compared to Edinburgh and a variety of homes.
One of the biggest draws for newcomers moving to Fife is the housing market. Compared to Edinburgh, Fife offers significantly better value for money, with a variety of options to suit all lifestyles.
According to Rightmove’s 2025 data, the average house price in Fife over the past year has been around £207,376.
Terraced homes accounted for the bulk of sales, typically selling for £169,134.
Flats remain the most affordable option, averaging £123,042, while detached properties continue to command the highest values, averaging £331,193.
Rentals are also very affordable, with a two-bedroom property typically costing £650–£850 per month, depending on location.
Popular commuter spots like Inverkeithing and Dalgety Bay are beautiful for professionals working in Edinburgh, while coastal towns like St Andrews and Elie are sought after by families and retirees alike.
Whether you’re looking at new build developments, traditional cottages, or character-filled seaside homes, Fife has something for everyone.
For those considering house removals in Fife, the combination of affordability and variety makes it a top choice.
A Thriving Job Market Across Multiple Sectors
Find diverse career opportunities in Fife’s growing economy, particularly in healthcare, tourism, and green energy sectors.
Fife is no longer just seen as a commuter base for Edinburgh or Dundee; it’s increasingly becoming an employment hub in its own right.
Key industries include healthcare, education, tourism, renewables, and manufacturing.
The Fife Energy Park in Methil is a leader in offshore wind and green energy, while St Andrews University remains one of the region’s largest employers.
Retail and service jobs thrive in larger towns like Kirkcaldy and Glenrothes, while small businesses and independent enterprises contribute heavily to the local economy.
With strong road and rail links to Edinburgh (40–50 minutes), Dundee (30–40 minutes), and Perth (around 35 minutes), Fife is a practical choice for hybrid and remote workers too.
Education and Family-Friendly Living
Benefit from Fife’s strong education system, including highly-regarded schools and the world-renowned St Andrews University.
Fife is a great choice for families thanks to its wide range of schooling options.
The region offers more than 100 primary schools and over 15 secondary schools, with Madras College in St Andrews and Balwearie High School in Kirkcaldy among the most highly regarded.
For higher education, St Andrews University is world-renowned, attracting students from across the globe.
Meanwhile, Fife College, with campuses in Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, and Glenrothes, provides vocational training and apprenticeships tailored to local industries.
Before you move, take time to explore where the best schools are located.
This focus on education, combined with affordable housing and outdoor lifestyle opportunities, makes Fife a natural choice for families looking to put down roots after a move to Fife.
If you are moving to Fife from a location outside Scotland, you will find that the education system differs from the rest of the UK.
School Parrot is an excellent resource for parents new to Fife. The site allows you to search for the best-rated schools from Nursery through to secondary education.
To find out more about how the Scottish education system operates and differs from the UK, you can visit Sharpscot’s in-depth article.
Healthcare and Community Services
Access comprehensive healthcare through NHS Fife and settle into a region known for its active and welcoming community services.
When moving to Fife or any new area, healthcare is a top priority, and luckily, this area is well covered.
The main hospitals in the region are Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, offering A&E and surgical services, and Queen Margaret Hospital in Dunfermline, which provides outpatient and diagnostic care.
GP practices and community clinics are well distributed across the region, meaning residents rarely need to travel far for everyday healthcare.
NHS Fife will guide you through the process of registering at a new doctor’s surgery. Plus, you can find out other important information, such as booking appointments and hospital visits.
Community services are also strong, with Fife Council investing in wellbeing hubs, libraries, and leisure centres.
The region’s active community groups and local initiatives make it easy for newcomers to settle in.
Getting Around: Transport and Connectivity
Stay well-connected with excellent road and rail links, making commuting to Edinburgh, Dundee, and Perth straightforward.
Fife’s transport links make it a commuter-friendly location. The region is well connected by train, bus, and road.
- Rail: Stations at Kirkcaldy, Inverkeithing, Dunfermline, and Cupar offer direct services to Edinburgh, Dundee, Perth, and beyond. A new station at Leven is also set to reopen in 2025, reconnecting the town to Scotland’s rail network.
- Road: The M90 motorway links Fife to Edinburgh and Perth, while the Queensferry Crossing provides easy access to the capital.
- Bus: Stagecoach East Scotland operates extensive services within Fife and to major Scottish cities.
- Active Travel: Investment in cycle routes and walking paths is ongoing, making Fife one of Scotland’s most cycle-friendly regions.
For anyone planning removals to Fife, the transport network makes day-to-day commuting and cross-country travel refreshingly straightforward.
Lifestyle, Shopping, and Dining
Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with a mix of high-street shopping, independent boutiques, and a renowned local food scene, especially in the East Neuk.
Fife offers the best of both worlds — small-town charm and big-city convenience, and plenty more options just a short hop away.
- Shopping: Larger towns like Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy have shopping centres lined with high street names, while coastal villages offer boutique stores and artisan shops. The monthly farmers’ markets in St Andrews and Cupar are a favourite for locals.
- Food and Drink: The East Neuk is a foodie’s paradise, with award-winning seafood restaurants such as The Cellar in Anstruther and The Seafood Ristorante in St Andrews. Traditional fish and chips from Anstruther Fish Bar remain a must-try.
- Entertainment: From the Byre Theatre in St Andrews to Rothes Halls in Glenrothes, Fife has a vibrant arts scene all within easy reach, alongside live music venues and annual festivals.
Outdoor Living: Beaches, Parks, and Trails
Embrace the great outdoors with over 100 miles of coastline, stunning beaches like West Sands, and the famous Fife Coastal Path.
Nature is where Fife truly shines, and no wonder, with over 100 miles of coastline and a rich network of parks and walking routes, it’s one of Scotland’s top choices for outdoor lovers. Highlights include:
- West Sands Beach, St Andrews — iconic for its role in Chariots of Fire, this sweeping sandy shore is perfect for long walks, birdwatching, or beach runs.
- Elie & Earlsferry — family-friendly seaside villages ideal for paddling, sailing, rock pooling and relaxing by the water.
- The Fife Coastal Path — a 117-mile (188 km) long-distance walk managed by the Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, linking coastal towns, wildlife reserves, historic harbours, and dramatic scenery.
- Lochore Meadows Country Park — spanning over 1,200 acres, this park at Loch Ore offers trails, cycling routes, water sports, picnic spots, accessible paths, and even mobility scooter hire.
Whether you’re into hiking, golf, paddleboarding, or just strolling along the shore, Fife delivers a lifetime of outdoor adventure.
Of course, there are plenty more places to entertain yourself in and close to Fife, no matter your age.
Fife’s Golfing Legacy – A World-Class Attraction
Experience the “Home of Golf” with access to over 50 courses, including the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.
No guide to Fife would be complete without mentioning golf!
Known as the “Home of Golf,” St Andrews attracts players from around the world to its famous Old Course.
But golf in Fife isn’t just for professionals; the region has over 50 golf courses, from championship links to friendly local clubs.
Golf tourism alone contributes millions to the local economy and provides newcomers with a welcoming way to meet new people.
For golf lovers considering a move to Scotland, Fife offers an unmatched lifestyle.
Is Moving to Fife Right for You?
If you’re looking for a location that oozes affordability, outdoor lifestyle, rich history, and excellent connections to Scotland’s major cities, Fife could be your ideal new home.
From picturesque villages and sandy beaches to thriving towns and world-class golf, moving to Fife offers something for everyone.
Our Dunfermline depot provides expert house removals in Fife and right across Scotland.
Having been operating since 1871, we have tackled just about every moving circumstance, so you can rest assured that we will do our best to take the stress out of moving to Fife.
We offer:
- Free, no-obligation moving surveys (virtual or in-person)
- Professional packing, transport, and storage solutions
- Friendly, experienced staff to guide you every step of the way
Ready to start your move to Fife? Get in touch today for a free quote.
📞 Call us on 01383 807918
📧 Email us at dunfermline@whiteandcompany.co.uk
Or interact with our helpful moving assistant, Brad, in the bottom right-hand corner of this page!
Let White & Company make moving to Fife a smooth, stress-free, and successful experience.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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