Is Exeter Safe, Pros and cons of living in Exeter

Exeter, a historic cathedral city in Devon, South West England, offers a blend of ancient charm and modern amenities. Situated on the River Exe, it boasts a rich past, from its Roman origins to its medieval prominence as a wool trade center. Today, Exeter is a vibrant hub known for its strong educational institutions and growing economy.

The city’s strategic location, coupled with ongoing investment in infrastructure and business development, positions it as an attractive place to live and work. Its appeal is further enhanced by the surrounding natural beauty of Devon, offering residents access to both urban conveniences and picturesque landscapes.

Is it Safe to Live in Exeter?

Exeter presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are often comparable to or below national averages for similar-sized cities. While no city is entirely free from crime, the overall crime rate in Exeter is reported as being 109.7 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 109% of the national average (as reported by Plumplot, April 2026). Violent crime, though a significant portion of reported incidents, also shows varied statistics depending on the source and specific area within Exeter.

Specific crime statistics can vary by reporting agency and methodology. For instance, one report indicates an annual total crime rate of 119 crimes per thousand residents, classifying it as a medium crime level in England and Wales (as reported by Crystal Roof). Another source notes that as of April 2026, the annual crime rate in the Exeter postcode area stands at 33.5 crimes per 1,000 people, with violent crime making up 42.6% of all reported crimes in that area (as reported by Plumplot, April 2026).

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Exeter is considered to be in the upper echelons when compared globally and within the UK. The average cost of living in Exeter is estimated at $1885, placing it in the top 27% of the world’s most expensive cities and ranking it 175th out of 277 cities in the United Kingdom (as reported by Livingcost.org, March 2026). This figure suggests that while Exeter offers many amenities and opportunities, it comes with a higher price tag for residents.

For a single person, estimated monthly costs are around £3,680, while a family of four could expect to spend approximately £5,662 per month (as reported by Expatistan, May 2026). These costs encompass various aspects of daily life, including housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities. When considering a move to Exeter, prospective residents should factor in these expenses to ensure financial preparedness.

Housing Costs

Housing prices in Exeter have seen fluctuations, with recent data indicating an increase in median home prices. In March 2026, home prices in Exeter were up by 6.9% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $598K (as reported by Redfin, March 2026). This suggests a competitive housing market where property values have been on an upward trend.

The average house price in Exeter was £286,000 in February 2026, reflecting a slight decrease of 1.5% from the previous year (as reported by the Office for National Statistics, April 2026). For those looking to rent, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately £1,033, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around £1,900 per month (as reported by Whatuni, January 2025).

Job Market and Economy

Exeter’s economy is characterized by a diverse range of industries and a growing job market, although its employment rate has been noted as being among the lowest in the South West region. The city’s employment rate was 72.8% in the year leading up to March 2023 (as reported by Devon Live, October 2023). Despite this, Exeter is recognized for its economic growth and private sector job creation.

The city has seen an increase in private sector jobs, with a 5.1% rise on the previous year, adding approximately 3,000 jobs (as reported by Devon Chamber of Commerce, 2018). Major employers in Exeter include the Met Office, the University of Exeter, Devon County Council, and the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, contributing significantly to the local employment landscape.

Salaries and Wages

Salaries in Exeter tend to be lower than the national average, positioning it among cities with some of the lowest average pay in the UK. The average annual salary for someone living in Exeter is approximately £25,533, which is nearly £7,500 less than the national average of £33,000 (as reported by Devon Live, March 2023). This figure highlights a potential disparity between the cost of living and earning potential within the city.

However, more recent data suggests a different picture for specific areas around Exeter. For example, East Devon workers now earn more than the South West average, with a median wage of £30,606 compared to the regional average of £29,539 (as reported by Exeter Today, May 2026). This indicates that while Exeter city salaries may be lower, surrounding areas might offer more competitive wages.

Unemployment

Exeter maintains a relatively low unemployment rate, often ranking among the lowest in the UK. As of the year ending December 2023, around 2,200 people in Exeter were unemployed, resulting in an unemployment rate of 3.0% (as reported by ONS, May 2024). This rate has remained stable compared to the previous year.

This low unemployment rate is a positive indicator for the local economy, suggesting a strong demand for labor within the city and its surrounding areas. The city has also been noted for having one of the lowest benefit claimant counts in the UK (as reported by Devon Chamber of Commerce, 2018).

Climate

Exeter experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and comfortable summers. The average yearly temperature hovers around 14°C (57°F), with daytime highs in the summer reaching up to 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows in winter averaging around 3°C (37°F) (as reported by Weather and Climate, United Kingdom). The city generally avoids temperature extremes, with recorded highs rarely exceeding 32°C (90°F) and lows seldom dropping below -3°C (27°F).

Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, with an annual average of 1053 mm (as reported by Weather and Climate, United Kingdom). October is typically the wettest month, while April tends to be the driest. Snowfall is minimal, with an average of about 1.7 cm per year. The best months for visiting Exeter, if seeking sunny weather, are June through September, offering pleasant temperatures and less rainfall.

Education

Exeter is home to a well-regarded educational landscape, notably featuring the University of Exeter, a prominent Russell Group university known for its research and academic excellence. The city also boasts a strong network of primary and secondary schools, many of which receive high ratings from educational bodies.

The demographic data indicates a well-qualified population, with a significant percentage of residents holding higher-level academic qualifications. Specifically, 43% of Exeter’s population have high-level academic qualifications, and the city has one of the lowest rates of individuals with no formal qualifications (as reported by Devon Chamber of Commerce, 2018).

Demographics

Exeter has a population that is predominantly of White British background, with over 93% of residents identifying as White according to recent estimates (as reported by Exeter Population 2026). The city has experienced steady population growth, with an estimated population of 142,441 in 2026, an increase from 117,773 in 2011 (as reported by Exeter Population 2026).

The median age in Exeter is 35 years, which is younger than the national average for England (40 years) (as reported by Office for National Statistics, January 2023). A notable aspect of Exeter’s demographics is its substantial student population, which accounts for 30.07% of residents, a figure significantly above the national average (as reported by Propertistics).