Devon County Council - Quality of Life
A great place to work, live and play - Devon has it all!
But don't just go on our word - Country Life voted Devon the best county in England, taking into account it's scenery, pubs, food, heritage and green credentials:
"...few counties can match the variety that Devon manages to pack into its 2,589 square miles."
Similarly, the Campaign to Protect Rural England ranked Devon as the fifth most tranquil place to live in the UK.
With vibrant towns and cities sitting comfortably alongside beautiful countryside and stunning coastline, Devon offers a work and leisure lifestyle that keeps bringing people back. Alongside an endless supply of activities, events and attractions, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and easy links to London and the rest of Britain, there really is something for everyone.
Housing
Devon is the third largest county in England and has a population of over one million people. It has much to offer potential residents, with the varied choice of coastal, urban or rural locations.
Exeter and Plymouth are two of Devon's property hotspots, and are easily accessible by air, road and rail. Exeter with its big city atmosphere, low crime rate, high quality of life and thriving arts scene is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in the UK. Plymouth is the largest city in the region, combining the vibrancy of a modern city with the heritage of a historic port.
Outside of the two cities there are many wonderful towns and villages where you could also choose to live. Take a look at the guide on Live Devon to find out more about some of these locations.
Education
Devon recognises that education and skills are essential to successful careers, personal fulfilment, healthy businesses and a vibrant local economy. Devon offers an excellent range of opportunities to residents of all ages, from pre-school through school, to college, university, working life and beyond. At every step you will find first-class facilities, knowledgeable and skilled teaching staff and a real commitment to getting the best out of individuals.
Find out more on Live Devon's education section.
Culture
With over 300 miles of spectacular coastlines (both of them!), 2 National Parks (Dartmoor & Exmoor), 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, four UNESCO designated sites, 4,930 km of Public Rights of Way, 18 long-distance recreational walking routes and more than 233 km of National Cycle Network - there is no shortage of opportunity to get "naturally active" in Devon! Add in over 30 National Trust properties, over 200 sites with SSSI designation, and an environment that offers some of the best outdoor recreation in Britain, and you have a great place to work, live and play. Find out more at Live Devon and Visit Devon.
Recreational Activities
With over 300 miles of spectacular coastlines (both of them!), 2 National Parks (Dartmoor & Exmoor), 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, four UNESCO designated sites, 4,930 km of Public Rights of Way, 18 long-distance recreational walking routes and more than 233 km of National Cycle Network - there is no shortage of opportunity to get "naturally active" in Devon! Add in over 30 National Trust properties, over 200 sites with SSSI designation, and an environment that offers some of the best outdoor recreation in Britain, and you have a great place to work, live and play. Find out more at Live Devonand Visit Devon.
Alternative Energy / Environmental Issues
Devon has an abundant source of natural resources in the form of wind, solar, hydro and marine energy sources. Renewable Energy for Devon (RE4D) has been a pioneering initiative that has promoted the installation and suppliers of renewable energy that has seen significant growth in the sector.
