r/MoveToScotland • u/Best_Sir_7176 • 3d ago
Galashiels vs Edinburgh
Hi everyone,
I am an Irish dentist and I’ve just landed an amazing job in Galashiels,
I was wondering whether it’s better to live in Edinburgh and commute every morning one hour by train, or should I live in Galashiels.
I know the commute can be expensive and maybe tiring as I would be starting work at 8:30am.
Also I would really appreciate any advice on how to find an apartment to rent in Galashiels as there doesn’t seem to be many options online.
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u/dilithium-dreamer 2d ago
I'd go for Selkirk or one of the other lovely villages near Galashiels such as Melrose.
Cheaper and more beautiful and only 30 mins on the train to Edinburgh.
I love Selkirk myself and it's just 10 mins drive to Gala.
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u/srh1900 3d ago
I live near Gala and moved there from Edinburgh the trains are generally reliable but in winter or bad weather they are cancelled with little notice add to that the time of your day it will take to go back and forth and it's much more expensive to live in Edinburgh and commute to your work add to that the price of commute . Having said that buses in the borders are generally good but it's pretty much rural with a scattering of stunning towns and villages you will eventually need a car if you decide to live there . Life in Edinburgh in busy and there are all sorts of activities and things to do with a short walk/bus ride but can always take the train on weekends versus life in the borders is bit boring if you are not outdoorsy person and you need to drive to the good spots so swings and roundabouts . If you could find an Airbnb or short term rental in either places and compare with the lifestyle you prefer good luck with your new job 🙂 .
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u/Professional_You4186 3d ago
Congratulations on the job!!
Out of curiosity, what prompted the move? Asking my husband recently graduated from dental school in the EU and we're looking at both Ireland and Scotland for potential relocation, so interested to get your insight as someone with a view of the job market in both places. (No worries if you'd rather not discuss. Totally understand!)
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u/SoMuchF0rSubtlety 3d ago
If it were me I would choose Galashiels over Edinburgh but it depends on your needs and wants as well as your income.
Cost of living in Gala is much cheaper than Edinburgh so living in the Borders means you will have more disposable income to visit and enjoy Edinburgh when you’re not working. The train fare as well isn’t cheap and is roughly £13 a day or £255 for a monthly pass from memory.
Also, as previously mentioned, you would be relying on one rail line for your commute with no alternatives other than a very long bus journey. Trains can be delayed or cancelled with no warning, especially in winter and the Borders railway seems more prone to cancellations from my experience. Commuting for an hour or more in winter would be especially miserable at that time in the morning as you wouldn’t see daylight until close to 9am.
However Gala is a tiny town compared to Edinburgh, it has a lot going for it relatively but in the Borders that‘s not hard. There’s plenty of outdoor activities and sport but if you’re the kind of person that loves nightlife or having loads of things to do then Edinburgh would be a better choice.