Living in Aberdeen as an expat

Known as the Granite City, Aberdeen makes liberal use of the material, which is visible throughout the city. On sunny days, the granite glints and shimmers beautifully in the sunlight, lending Aberdeen its other nickname of the Silver City. If you're moving to Aberdeen, you can look forward to a combination of small-town atmosphere and modern conveniences. 

Working in Aberdeen

Thanks to its position as a Scottish economic powerhouse, Aberdeen has long been an attractive destination for expats. New arrivals are often struck by the seeming contrast between the city's proudly maintained heritage and its constant development driven by ambitious plans for the future.

Aberdeen is the hub of the North Sea oil and gas industry and is renowned for its expertise in energy technology. Other top industries include property and agriculture. The city's continuous demand for skilled workers remains a draw for expats.

Working in Aberdeen
Business Culture in the UK

Lifestyle in Aberdeen

After working hours, expats will find plenty to keep them occupied. Despite being a fairly small city, Aberdeen has a vibrant range of artistic and cultural attractions, spread across galleries, museums, and performance venues. 

Expats who enjoy an active lifestyle can get involved in several sporting activities, from a day out at Duthie Park to hiking the trails of the Cairngorms National Park. 

There's also a beautiful coastline to enjoy. Though the grey weather largely rules out taking a dip, a long walk alongside the crashing waves of the North Sea is a refreshing way to spend an afternoon – just be sure to bundle up warm.

Shopping, Restaurants, Nightlife and Outdoor Activities in Aberdeen

Finding accommodation in Aberdeen

Renting Accommodation in Aberdeen

Cost of living in Aberdeen

As is the case across the UK, the cost of living is fairly high in Aberdeen. Though not as expensive as London, it's far from cheap, so expats moving here should ensure their salary can keep up.

Accommodation will likely be the largest expense facing expats in the city. That said, Aberdeen is a university city, so expats can also find affordable housing and entertainment experiences across the city if they're willing to bargain hunt. 

Cost of Living in Aberdeen

Living in Aberdeen with children

Aberdeen is a fantastic place to bring up children. There are parks, beaches, and cultural attractions of all sorts to enjoy, not to mention historic castles for kids old enough to appreciate them.

Expats living in Aberdeen will also have access to good healthcare, whether through the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) or private services.

Best Hospitals in Aberdeen
Healthcare in the UK

Finding a school in Aberdeen

Those moving to Aberdeen with children will be pleased to know that there's a wide range of schooling options available. State-funded schools can be attended free of charge, and many offer a high standard of education. 

There are also some excellent private schools, including one of Scotland's few International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. The IB is a globally taught curriculum favoured by expat families for its worldly approach and ease of transferability when moving to a new country. 

Education and Schools in Aberdeen

Getting around in Aberdeen

Buses are the main mode of transport in Aberdeen. While owning a car in the city is not essential, it can be useful for exploring the country.

Despite its position on the northeast coast of Scotland, the city is relatively well connected to the rest of the UK and Europe, with good air, road and rail networks, so expats will have ample opportunity to travel.

Getting Around in Aberdeen
Transport and Driving in the UK

Climate in Aberdeen

While expats from tropical climes are hardly likely to be whipping out their bathing suits, Aberdeen does hold the distinction of being one of Scotland's sunniest cities, with an average of around 1,400 sunshine hours a year. 

Rain falls throughout the year, and winters are cold, with high winds and humidity making the temperature feel even lower than it actually is. Summer is a bit warmer, but not by much.

Climate Chart for Aberdeen

Though the weather may be cold, Aberdeen locals thankfully don't share that disposition, and new arrivals can look forward to a warm welcome. The fantastic career opportunities and enjoyable lifestyle also go a long way to make life here easier. Many expats find themselves staying far longer than intended, and it's easy to see why.

The weather in Aberdeen is influenced by the city's oceanic climate. Due to its location in Scotland's northeastern coast, Aberdeen has chilly winter months and cool and cloudy summers, which bring little respite. 

Winter is from December to February. Although wind and humidity can make it feel colder, the average winter temperature is 38°F (3°C). In June, summer arrives in Aberdeen, with July being the warmest month. The average temperature in summer is 57°F (14°C). Rarely, a warm spell may arrive, pushing the mercury above 68°F (20°C).

The sun makes only brief appearances in December and January, with average sunshine hours in these months totalling one or two hours a day. Aberdeen's high latitude means that the length of days varies widely. In midwinter, the sun sets before 4pm, while it can set as late as 10pm during the summer.

Rain is a seemingly ever-present companion in Aberdeen, so it's best to keep an umbrella on hand year round.

The Granite City is one of the most prosperous cities in Scotland, and expats working in Aberdeen will be taking part in continuing to build the cornerstone of the Scottish economy. Internationally recognised as a business centre with several globally competitive industries, Aberdeen has excellent academic and research capacities and is home to a growing, highly skilled workforce.

Job market in Aberdeen

The city’s economy was traditionally based on granite, fishing and textiles, but these industries are no longer as prominent as they once were. Over the years, Aberdeen’s economy has modernised, and traditional industries have given way to energy, agriculture, property, and the oil industry, all of which have been significant contributors to the city’s economic boom.

Energy is the key driver of the local economy, employing roughly 10 percent of workers in the city. Aberdeen is recognised as one of the leading cities in Europe in oil and gas, a sector that attracts many skilled expats to the city each year.

The property industry has also benefited from the growth and development of Aberdeen’s economy. As the city continues to grow, there is a sustained demand for both commercial and industrial property. This has made Aberdeen a popular destination for property developers and investors.

Useful links

• Scotland.org – Career Paths in Scotland

Finding a job in Aberdeen

Most expats who relocate to Aberdeen do so with a firm employment offer already in place. It is a great city for expats with relevant skills and qualifications to build a career. Expats who move to Aberdeen often stay well beyond the end of their initial contract, as there are plenty of opportunities for career progression in the city. 

Those without a job offer can search for opportunities online, though the best approach is typically networking.

Useful links

• Reed – Jobs in Aberdeen
• Scotland Jobs

Work culture in Aberdeen

On the whole, Scots are a friendly bunch, and this is true of the workplace, too. Meetings usually start with small talk and pleasantries; it's best not to rush the process but instead to enjoy getting to know coworkers.

Be sure to stick to safe, neutral topics during small talk, and be aware of local sensitivities – for example, confusing or conflating the Scots with the English is unlikely to earn friends. 

Scotland is also a family-friendly country; many companies offer flexible working hours to ensure employees can attend to their family responsibilities. This may not be the case at all companies, though, and is at an employer's discretion.

Business Culture in the UK

Despite being one of the UK’s more affordable metropolitan areas, the cost of living in Aberdeen is high. Expect housing and daily expenses to be costly, particularly if you’re seeking accommodation in central areas. Fortunately, the cost of living in Aberdeen is offset by strong earning potential, and the city is focused on key industries such as energy and engineering. Additionally, the city’s well-developed social infrastructure helps make daily life more convenient and accessible.

Cost of accommodation in Aberdeen

While rental costs in Aberdeen are far from cheap, they’re still significantly lower than in other major Scottish cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh. That said, the cost of accommodation in Aberdeen is continually rising, primarily due to increasing demand for property.

Accommodation will likely be the highest expense facing prospective expats, so you should try to negotiate an adequate housing allowance in your employment contract to ease this burden.

As is the case in most cities, the area you choose to live in will have a noticeable effect on rental cost. Accommodation near the city centre is usually pricier than in the suburbs. You should also be mindful of utility costs, which are typically not included in the rent price.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Aberdeen
Best Areas and Neighbourhoods in Aberdeen

Cost of transport in Aberdeen

Transport in Aberdeen is generally more costly than in most Scottish cities, but it is always reliable and efficient. You can purchase weekly or monthly passes to make the most of the extensive bus network.

Despite the higher price tag, the convenience and punctuality of the transport system often soften the blow of the extra cost. Moreover, the city’s compact design means many places are within easy walking or cycling distance, which helps reduce transport costs.

Getting Around in Aberdeen

Cost of groceries in Aberdeen

Prices across most UK grocery shops and supermarkets are standardised and largely considered reasonable in Aberdeen. Some budget supermarkets, like Aldi and Lidl, offer a cheaper, less brand-focused shopping experience.

You can shop for fresh, locally sourced produce and products at markets and butchers, usually at prices lower than those found in supermarkets.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Aberdeen

Entertainment can be expensive, especially if you enjoy frequent nights out. Alcohol is heavily taxed in the UK, so while having a pint or two is a fantastic way to make local friends, it can be hard on the budget.

Still, Aberdeen has plenty of free or low-cost entertainment options. From picturesque parks and beaches to fascinating museums and galleries, there’s a fair share of leisure activities requiring little to no spending.

Eating out can be pricey, but opting for lesser-known eateries or enjoying the traditional fish and chips by the harbour can offer you a more budget-friendly yet equally enjoyable experience.

Lifestyle in Aberdeen

Cost of education in Aberdeen

The cost of education in Aberdeen depends greatly on your choice of school. Local state schools are entirely free to attend, and many offer a good standard of education.

On the other hand, Aberdeen is also home to one of Scotland’s few International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. Fees can be high at IB schools, but expats often find international schooling worth the cost – the IB in particular is known for its easy transferability, as it is globally recognised and taught at schools worldwide.

Education and Schools in Aberdeen

Cost of healthcare in Aberdeen

The healthcare system in Aberdeen is served by NHS Scotland, which provides free healthcare at the point of use for residents. While public healthcare standards are high, waitlists are long, and you may prefer private healthcare for its shorter waiting times.

Expats planning to use private healthcare should opt for a private health insurance plan to cover the costs.

Healthcare and Hospitals in Aberdeen

Cost of living chart for Aberdeen

Prices are in British Pounds (GBP) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Aberdeen in September 2026.

Finding suitable accommodation in Aberdeen in the right location is essential for a positive expat experience. Most expats tend to rent rather than buy a home in Aberdeen, at least initially. Negotiating an unfamiliar city and its property market can be challenging for new arrivals, so expats should do their homework before moving.

Expats should take some time to familiarise themselves with the various areas and suburbs in Aberdeen to narrow down their choices. Other factors expats should consider before starting their accommodation search include their budget, proximity to work, schools, and public transport, and the type of property they want to live in. 

Areas and suburbs in Aberdeen

Aberdeen is home to various areas and suburbs suited to diverse interests and needs.

Young professionals and students moving to Aberdeen enjoy living in Old Aberdeen. The historic centre is conveniently located near the University of Aberdeen, making it ideal for students and those working in the city centre. Old Aberdeen also boasts several independent boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife spots. 

Bridge of Dee and Garthdee are other areas for young professionals and students to explore. These neighbourhoods are conveniently located near the city centre and the Robert Gordon University.

Families will have plenty of options in Aberdeen. Bridge of Don is a quick 10-minute drive from the city centre and has excellent schools, parks, and golf courses. Homes in this area are often built on spacious lots, with new constructions available. 

Those looking for a village atmosphere will enjoy living in Cove Bay. Although slightly further from the city centre, the neighbourhood has excellent public transport links. 

Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Aberdeen

Types of accommodation in Aberdeen

From Aberdeen’s distinctive granite townhouses to luxury apartments, there's sure to be a home that meets your needs.

Aberdeen offers fully furnished, semi-furnished, and unfurnished accommodation options. Those on short-term work assignments who won't be in the city for long will likely want to opt for fully furnished housing. Those in the city for a longer period may prefer unfurnished accommodation. It's quite easy to purchase reasonably priced furniture.

Expats on a tight budget will find plenty of house-share options in Aberdeen, especially given it's a university town. Renting an individual room in a larger house shared with others is fairly common among students and young professional expats starting out in Aberdeen.

Some new arrivals initially choose to rent short term via a holiday-let website. While short-term rental costs are higher, the property is usually furnished and all bills are included. This is also often a fantastic way to get to know the city's different neighbourhoods before committing to a long-term lease. 

Finding accommodation in Aberdeen

Finding property in Aberdeen can be a challenge for new arrivals who don’t have much knowledge of the local market. Some expats will be lucky enough to have their accommodation arranged by their employer, but there are several resources for those who need to find a home on their own.

Before moving to Aberdeen, newcomers should browse property portals online to get an idea of what's available within their budget. While it is possible to deal directly with property owners, most people enlist the services of a letting agent who has local knowledge of Aberdeen’s property market.

Useful links

• Rightmove Aberdeen
• Zoopla Aberdeen
• OnTheMove Aberdeen

Renting accommodation in Aberdeen

Making an application

Having found your ideal home, you'll need to submit an application. This should include documents proving your identity, copies of bank statements or payslips, and your previous landlord's contact details for reference checks. A guarantor might be required in some cases. 

It's important to note that while expats may be asked to show their passport for identity verification, they don't need to show any kind of proof of a 'right to rent' in Scotland – this is a requirement in England only.

The landlord might wish to do a credit check on you or your guarantor. This is allowed but they need permission to conduct the check and they must pay for it themselves.

Deposits and fees

It's standard to pay the equivalent of one or two months' rent as a deposit when signing a lease. Note that according to Scottish law, charging more than two months' rent as a deposit is illegal. When you move out, the full deposit has to be returned, though costs can be deducted for damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent or utilities, or cleaning bills if the home is left dirty.

Note that if you don't have a UK credit history, you might also be asked to pay several months of rent up front. Six months is the maximum allowed, but landlords can sometimes be negotiated down to three months.

Leases

There's no fixed length for a private lease in Scotland, so it's indefinite or open ended until either the landlord or tenant ends the lease. Before signing, expats should ensure they fully understand the lease agreement, including its terms and conditions.

Terminating the lease

Scotland's rental laws are favourable to the tenant. You only need to give 28 days' notice to your landlord if you want to move out before the lease term is up.

Useful links

• Rented Housing – MyGov

Utilities in Aberdeen

Before committing to a contract, find out whether utilities are included in the rental price. In most cases, you'll need to budget for gas and electricity as additional costs, plus council tax.

Ensure that utilities are turned on and ready for use before moving in. Most landlords will provide utility companies with the final meter readings, but expats are encouraged to take their own readings to avoid being potentially overcharged.

Setting up Household Utilities in the UK

Bins and recycling

The City of Aberdeen collects general waste weekly. Alongside regular bins, the municipality also provides two additional recycling bins – a brown bin and a mixed recycling bin. 

The brown bin is used for food and garden waste and is collected alongside the general waste bin. Mixed recycling bins are collected biweekly. 

The City of Aberdeen also provides a number of recycling centres that are accessible by appointment. These recycling centres accept various recyclable materials, including bulky waste like furniture, garden waste, and hazardous waste like car batteries and engine oil. 

Parking

Residents living in a controlled parking zone can apply to the city council for a parking permit. Both fixed and flexible permits are available: fixed permits are eligible for one specific car, while flexible permits may be used for any vehicle. There are also numerous car parks and on-street parking spaces scattered across Aberdeen, including free ones. 

Useful links

• Aberdeen City Council – Bins, waste, and recycling
• Aberdeen City Council – Find a car park

The best places to live in Aberdeen

There's a wide range of areas and suburbs in Aberdeen to suit any expat's needs. From family-friendly communities with plenty of green space to hidden gems and historic neighbourhoods near the city centre, Aberdeen has a lot to offer. 

While the city's grey facade can seem unwelcoming at first, the glint of granite in the sun makes Aberdeen look much more appealing on summer days. Another plus is the city's extensive historic architecture.

Below are some of the best areas and suburbs in Aberdeen. 

Recommended neighbourhoods for young expats in Aberdeen

West End

This is an area close to the centre of Aberdeen. Properties here are a mix of traditional granite terraced houses and freestanding homes. There are also a few modern developments in this part of town, where expats can find luxury penthouses with a range of facilities.

The West End is well connected to the rest of Aberdeen through the city’s bus network. The area is popular with young executives who enjoy a high standard of living and wish to be close to the city centre.

Old Aberdeen

Old Aberdeen is the name given to the area located to the north of the city centre. This area is home to the University of Aberdeen, so it's naturally popular among students and academics, though plenty of families and professionals also call it home. 

Here, you'll find small cottages and large old houses with lots of character. The area is highly sought after, though, so finding properties available for rent can be difficult. The desirable location and the area's large properties make accommodation in Old Aberdeen fairly expensive. The area is popular with those looking to be close to the city centre while also enjoying an element of historic charm. 

Family-friendly areas in Aberdeen

Footdee

Footdee (locally known as "Fittie") is a charming former fishing village on the coast of Aberdeen. A small neighbourhood surrounded by water on three sides, Footdee is wedged between the North Sea and the River Dee.

This planned historic neighbourhood is made up of compact houses and cottages, all built in squares. A notable feature is the quirky decor common in the area, with doors, sheds, and outdoor furniture commonly being painted in bright colours. These rainbow additions provide a welcome break from the otherwise grey city. The strong sense of community here makes this a great place to raise a family.

Rosemount

A popular residential area northwest of Aberdeen’s city centre, Rosemount is often referred to as the "village within the city". This is a quaint area filled with boutique stores, local delis, and independent cafes. It's highly popular with both artistic types and young professionals looking to live close to the city centre. The area's many parks and green spaces also make it perfect for expats who enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

Housing in Rosemount mainly comprises granite terraced housing and flats, ranging from compact studio apartments to larger multi-roomed units.

Cults

Cults is a family-friendly suburb perched on the banks of the River Dee, well known for its historic granite buildings. Houses in the area are large and often have spacious gardens, making them perfect for expats with children.

Despite being relatively close to the city, Cults maintains an element of village life, and many who live here prefer the area's tranquillity to the city's hustle and bustle. It’s a great place to raise children, with many parks and several good schools.

The NHS Grampian, an affiliate of the Scottish National Health Services (NHS), is the main provider of healthcare in Aberdeen. Healthcare in Aberdeen is excellent, with the NHS offering pioneering treatments. While most expats in Aberdeen use public healthcare, those who can afford it opt for the private sector to skip long waiting times.

To receive treatment under the national system, expats must register with a local general practitioner. GPs are the first port of call for non-emergency medical concerns. In the public system, appointments with specialists can only be made via referral from a GP.

The downside of public healthcare in Aberdeen is that patients often face long waiting lists for treatment. Waiting times at private hospitals are much shorter, but they can be extremely pricey. For this reason, expats wanting to use private medical treatment are advised to invest in medical insurance to cover the costs.

Below is a selection of recommended public and private hospitals in Aberdeen.

Public hospitals in Aberdeen

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Foresterhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN

Aberdeen Maternity Hospital

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Cornhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZL

Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital

Website: www.rach.scot.nhs.uk
Address: Westburn Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZG

Private hospitals in Aberdeen

Albyn Hospital

Website: www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk
Address: 21–24 Albyn Pl, Aberdeen AB10 1RW

Expat parents will be glad to know that the standard of education and schools in Aberdeen is generally high. With two universities dating back centuries and still ranking among the best in Scotland, learning is part of the city’s fabric.

Both state (public) and independent (private) schools are available in Aberdeen, though most children attend state schools. Education Scotland conducts regular inspections of all schools, the results of which can be accessed online.

Government schools in Aberdeen

Expats can choose from various primary and secondary schools in the city, many of which have good reputations. 

Aberdeen’s schools follow the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence, which divides schooling into two phases. The first phase is a compulsory Broad General Education, beginning at Nursery (ages 3 or 4) and continuing through Primary (P1 to P7, ages 5 to 11) and three years of Secondary (S1 to S3, ages 12 to 15). At age 16, compulsory education is complete. The Senior Phase starts in S4 at age 16 and concludes with S6 at age 18.

Pupils generally attend a school based on where they live. An out-of-zone placement request can be submitted if you wish to send your child to a different state school. These requests are usually granted as long as the school in question has places available.

Useful links

• Aberdeen City Council – Find a School
• Education Scotland

Independent schools in Aberdeen

There aren't many options for independent schools in Aberdeen. With few to choose from, parents may find it difficult to secure a spot for their child. 

Unlike public schools, private schools charge fees. Given the good public education options available in Aberdeen, many expats decide that private education is an unnecessary expense.

That said, private schools offer a number of benefits, such as smaller class sizes, superior facilities, and diverse extracurricular programmes. If expats decide to go this route, it's best to enquire and apply early.

Useful links

• Independent Schools Council – Private Schools in Aberdeen

International schools in Aberdeen

There is just one international school in Aberdeen: the International School of Aberdeen. The school is one of just a handful in Scotland teaching the well-regarded International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. 

The IB curriculum is a standardised global curriculum, taught at thousands of schools around the globe. It significantly eases the transition between two schools, even in different countries, making it the ideal choice for globally mobile families.

Useful links

• International School of Aberdeen (ISA)

Special educational needs in Aberdeen

Aberdeen's special needs programme is based on three major facets: inclusivity, early intervention and participation, and effective resource targeting.

Different levels of care are allocated according to each child's needs. Milder cases may only require assistance from the child's class teacher (universal support), while slightly more severe cases might warrant assistance on a school-wide basis involving several staff members (targeted support). Children who require the highest level of care will receive specialised assistance from multiple parties, both internal and external to the school (multi-agency support).

Useful links

• Aberdeen City Council – Additional Support Needs

Tutors in Aberdeen

Tutors can easily be found in Aberdeen, both online and in person. Expat children, in particular, can benefit from tutors in a number of ways, such as catching up with the Scottish curriculum, learning English, or maintaining the family's mother tongue.

More general skills can also be taught by tutors, like study skills and essay writing. They can also help students brush up for major exams.

Useful links

• Scotland Tutors

Expats moving to Scotland's Granite City are sure to find the lifestyle in Aberdeen enjoyable. The city's diverse array of attractions caters to a range of tastes. 

Whether you're in the mood for the consumer comfort of retail therapy, the constant beat of clubs and bars, or the green silence of nature, there's always something to get up to in Aberdeen.

Shopping in Aberdeen

Aberdeen's main shopping area is Union Street, also known as Granite Mile. This street houses numerous shops, bars, clubs, and restaurants. Just around the corner is Union Square, the biggest shopping centre in Aberdeen. Here, you can find an assortment of high-street and upmarket retailers, restaurants, and a cinema.

Another not-to-be-missed shopping spot is the Merchant Quarter. Situated between the city’s major malls, the Quarter's historical architecture is an attraction in itself. There are restaurants and bars, live music and entertainment venues, and a shopping section filled with quirky boutiques to explore.

Nightlife in Aberdeen

Aberdeen's nightlife offers all sorts of adventures. For starters, no expat can be called an Aberdonian until they have been to one of its traditional Scottish pubs. Aberdeen’s pubs are the perfect spot for enjoying the company of friends, watching sports, drinking ale, and sampling the city’s best pub grub.

Expats wanting to dance into the wee hours won’t be disappointed, either. Covering a broad range of electronic genres, live music and 80s oldies, Aberdeen's club scene caters to eclectic tastes.

Sports and outdoor activities in Aberdeen

There are outdoor activities aplenty in Aberdeen. The city is well known for its numerous green spaces that offset its granite facade, and has won the Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom award several times.

Residents can escape the city’s commotion in Aberdeen's urban parks, flower gardens, and numerous national parks and leafy estates, all within driving range. Part of the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, the picturesque beaches around Aberdeen are another popular way to get some respite from the ups and downs of city life. In the summer months, water sports such as surfing, diving, and sailing are all popular pursuits.

Aberdeen is characterised by beautiful granite architecture, a rich maritime history, and natural beauty. New arrivals will have no shortage of things to see and do in Aberdeen. All too often overshadowed by Edinburgh in the sightseeing stakes, the tourist's loss is the local's gain.

Balmoral Castle

The royal holiday home Balmoral Castle has been in the British royal family since 1852 and was described by Queen Victoria as her "paradise in the Highlands". The grounds are open to the public from April to July each year.

Cairngorms National Park

Extending over the Cairngorms Mountains, the national park is the largest in Britain and offers activities such as mountain biking, skiing, horse riding and white-river rafting.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

The beaches around Aberdeen form part of the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail. The route consists of 165 miles (265 km) of pristine natural scenery, picturesque towns and gorgeous beaches, each one with its own unique atmosphere.

Where to meet people and make friends in Aberdeen

Settling into a new city has its challenges, and trying to meet locals and make new friends can be daunting. Having a shared interest often helps, so here are a few clubs worth looking into for new arrivals in Aberdeen. 

Association of American Women in Aberdeen

Though primarily composed of expats from the US and Canada, this association welcomes fellow expats from around the world. In addition to general meet-ups, members can join special activity clubs within the association, such as the book club and a moms-and-tots group.

Northern Arts Club

The Northern Arts Club welcomes artists of all ages and skill levels. The club offers several classes, including life drawing and landscape painting.

Ramblers Aberdeen

Outdoorsy expats will enjoy exploring Aberdeen's gorgeous countryside with this friendly club. Hikes and walks are held every two weeks, and the group organises extra social activities and occasional weekend trips away.

Getting around Aberdeen is easy and straightforward, and many residents prefer to use public transport to commute to work rather than driving. Owning a car is not essential, as Aberdeen’s buses connect most areas of the city, but having one does offer the freedom to explore the countryside and is particularly useful for expats with children.

Although the Scottish weather is not always conducive to cycling and walking, they're also potential ways of getting around in Aberdeen on sunnier days.

Public transport in Aberdeen

Buses

Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Aberdeen. First Bus Aberdeen and Stagecoach are the main operators. The city has a range of bus routes running on a hub-and-spoke network. These routes begin in outlying suburbs, run through the city centre, and then travel to other suburbs.

Tickets can be purchased on the bus in exact change or via the operator's app. Frequent users of various bus services may find it useful to purchase a Grasshopper ticket, which allows access to all buses regardless of operator.

Trains

While there is no local commuter system in Aberdeen, the city is well served by national rail connections. From Aberdeen railway station, you can catch intercity, regional, and local train services to various parts of the UK.

Useful links

• First Bus Aberdeen
• Stagecoach Bus
• Grasshopper

Taxis in Aberdeen

Taxis are readily available in Aberdeen's city centre, and most taxi companies offer booking services online, via mobile application, or by telephone. Passengers are usually charged a base fare and a fee for each additional mile they travel. As fares are high, most people only use taxis for short journeys.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber operate in Aberdeen and are a good alternative to taxis, as they give commuters more control over routes and display the expected fare in advance.

Useful links

• Aberdeen Taxis
• Uber Aberdeen

Driving in Aberdeen

Driving in Aberdeen poses no real challenges. The standard of road infrastructure is good, and signage is generally clear. Local drivers are courteous to other road users. 

Expats should, however, be aware that roads in Aberdeen are often affected by snow and fog in winter. Although local authorities take measures to grit the main roads, smaller roads are frequently slippery, and the risk of accidents is high. Drivers must be especially careful when driving in severe weather conditions.

Driver's licences

As is the case in the rest of the UK, EU citizens can drive on their licence from their home country until it expires. Non-EU expats can also drive on a valid licence from their home country, but can only do so for 12 months before they must exchange it for a UK licence.

Transport and Driving in the UK

Cycling in Aberdeen

Cycling is also a good way to get around Aberdeen. The city's bike-sharing scheme, Voi, allows users to download an application and rent an electric bicycle. 

The city has a fairly good cycle path network connecting certain suburbs through the city centre. Cyclists should be aware that some cycle lanes are shared with buses, though these are typically regulated by dedicated traffic lights.

Useful links

• Voi Aberdeen