Nestled in the south west of Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway is a place of stunning natural beauty, from rolling hills and ancient woodlands to wild beaches and rugged coastlines. Here, you'll find space to breathe, clean air and a slower, more fulfilling pace of life, all without giving up the professional opportunities and connectivity you need.
Why move here
- incredible landscapes – explore a region rich in nature with three national scenic areas, Galloway Forest Park (Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park) and over 200 miles of stunning coastline
- clean, spacious living – enjoy more space, less congestion and a healthier lifestyle in safe, welcoming communities
- affordable living – benefit from a lower cost of housing and living expenses compared to urban centres
- well connected – live rurally while staying within reach of major cities:
- west: close to Glasgow and Belfast via ferry and road, less than two hours to Manchester
- east: strong links to Edinburgh with Newcastle just two hours away
- the place to do business – investors are recognising that Dumfries and Galloway is a brilliant place to do business, offering breathing space to live, to work and to invest
Explore your future in Dumfries and Galloway
Here is your starting point to discover everything you need to make the move:
- living here – find out about housing, healthcare, schools, further and higher education and communities
- things to do – discover the arts, festivals, sports, nature and history on your doorstep
- work here – search for jobs, explore setting up a business in the area. It is also an ideal remote working location with excellent broadband connections
- real stories – be inspired by people who’ve made the move for a better work-life balance
Living in Dumfries and Galloway
The lighthouse at Mull of Galloway, beautiful at sunset.
Dumfries and Galloway is a region rich in diversity, offering a range of distinctive communities that suit different lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the peaceful rhythm of the countryside, the fresh sea air of the coast or the convenience and culture of town life, there’s a place for you here.
- rural communities: experience tranquil, spacious living surrounded by rolling hills, farmland and open skies; these areas are ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life with strong local networks and close-knit neighbourhoods
- coastal villages: enjoy life by the sea in charming villages along the Solway Coast; these communities offer a relaxed atmosphere, stunning views and a unique maritime character
- market towns: Dumfries, Castle Douglas, Stranraer, Annan and others provide a balance of modern amenities and traditional charm, with schools, healthcare, shops and a vibrant local culture
Moving to Dumfries and Galloway offers the opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life at a lower cost. The average house price in the region is much lower than in urban centres, with first-time buyers able to find two bedroom houses for a fraction of the cost.
See what you can get for your money
Finding work
The region offers a broad range of employment opportunities across key sectors such as:
- health and social care
- agriculture and forestry
- education and public services
- tourism and hospitality
- creative and cultural industries
Remote working is also increasingly popular, supported by reliable infrastructure and digital connectivity. Start your job search today on:
Connected to the UK and beyond
Despite its rural feel, Dumfries and Galloway is well-connected by road, rail and ferry services:
- Glasgow: two hours
- Edinburgh: two hours
- Belfast: reachable by ferry from Cairnryan – two hours
- Manchester: around two hours
The region also benefits from widespread access – 96.2% of premises both business and domestic have access to superfast broadband above the national average – enabling agile and remote working from home or local hubs.
Green spaces on your doorstep
From your front door, you can step straight into nature. Dumfries and Galloway offers hundreds of walking trails, bike routes, parks, forests and coastlines to explore:
Whether you're hiking in the Galloway Hills, enjoying a family picnic in a local park or walking your dog along a coastal path, the great outdoors is always on your doorstep.
Culture and community
The Big Burns Supper Parade that took place in January 2026 in Dumfries.
Dumfries and Galloway is a region with a vibrant and creative cultural identity. From visual arts and performance to heritage and literature, the region is home to a diverse community of artists, makers, performers and storytellers. Whether you want to immerse yourself in local galleries and museums, enjoy performances in intimate theatres or explore historical landmarks, you’ll find that creativity is part of everyday life here.
Explore Dumfries and Galloway’s culture
Quality local produce
Shopping in Dumfries and Galloway offers a distinctive experience that blends tradition, sustainability and community. Across the region you'll find:
- farmers' markets in towns like Dumfries, Castle Douglas and Wigtown, showcasing locally grown produce, handmade goods and artisan crafts
- local stores and independent shops that reflect the region’s character from book towns and craft hubs to butchers, bakers and boutique clothing stores
- food and drink rooted in the landscape, including award-winning cheeses, fresh seafood, organic vegetables and locally brewed ales and spirits
These businesses not only support the local economy but help preserve and promote the heritage and flavour of Dumfries and Galloway.
Leisure and recreation
Living in Dumfries and Galloway means access to a wide range of leisure activities for all ages and interests:
- local theatres like the Theatre Royal in Dumfries (Scotland’s oldest working theatre), CatStrand in Glenkens, and the Swallow Theatre offer plays, live music and community events
- leisure centres and gyms across the region provide swimming pools, fitness classes and sports facilities
- outdoor adventure is right on your doorstep – whether it's walking or cycling the Galloway Forest trails, sailing on Loch Ken, horse riding across open countryside or mountain biking world-class trails in the 7stanes
Regional festivals and events
Two people chat as part of a live conversation during Wigtown Book Festival in 2022.
Dumfries and Galloway hosts an exciting and varied calendar of events that showcase local pride, celebrate tradition and welcome international attention:
- Guid Nychburris (Dumfries): a week-long civic celebration with pageantry, parades and community pride at its heart
- Stranraer Oyster Festival: a celebration of Scotland’s only native oyster beds, with food experiences, entertainment and activities for all ages
- Riding of the Marches: held in towns such as, Annan, Lockerbie and Langholm, this tradition honours historic land boundaries through colourful equestrian parades steeped in local heritage
- Big Burns Supper: an annual international Scottish music and performing arts festival that takes place in Dumfries every January
- Wigtown Book Festival: a ten-day literary festival in Scotland's National Book Town
- Cycling: Dumfries and Galloway hosts major cycling events including the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships and The Gralloch. In 2027, the region will also form part of the opening stage of the men’s Tour de France, showcasing world‑class road and gravel cycling against stunning landscapes.
- curling: Dumfries regularly hosts high-level curling competitions, including international tournaments at the Dumfries Ice Bowl, attracting teams and fans from around the world. The Ice Bowl also stages international ice hockey tournaments, contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for elite-level sport
Young people and youth culture
Dumfries and Galloway is proud of its commitment to young people and youth-led programming. Youth Work D&G supports young people across the region with:
- leadership and volunteering programmes
- mental health and wellbeing support
- drop-ins, youth cafes and issue-based work
- inclusive programmes for LGBTQ+ youth and young carers
At the heart of it all is Youth Beatz – the UK’s largest free youth music festival, hosted annually in Dumfries. More than just a music event, Youth Beatz includes interactive learning, youth voice, workshops and funfair attractions, empowering young people and showcasing the strength of youth culture in the region.
Find out more
If you're considering making Dumfries and Galloway your new home, there's a wealth of information available to help you take the next step. Whether you're looking to explore the region as a visitor, set up a business or simply find out what everyday life could look like here, the resources below offer detailed insights:
- VisitScotland – Dumfries and Galloway discover things to see and do, explore hidden gems and plan your visit
- Scotland Starts Here discover the south of Scotland
- Invest in the South of Scotland learn about economic opportunities and support for businesses relocating or expanding to the region
- South of Scotland Enterprise the region’s economic and community development agency supporting businesses, social enterprises and community groups across Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders
- Scotland’s Natural Capital Innovation Zone a nationally recognised region across Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders, created to accelerate solutions to biodiversity loss and climate change.
- DG Food and Drink celebrate local producers, find the best places to eat and explore our region’s rich food heritage
- what’s on in Dumfries and Galloway
At a glance
- population – Dumfries and Galloway is home to 145,000 people
- land – Dumfries and Galloway covers 6426 sq km, that's the equivalent of 23 residents per square km compared to the Scottish average of 70 residents per sq km
- Internet connectivity speed – 96.2% of premises both business and domestic have access to superfast broadband above the national average
- schools – there are 89 primary schools and 16 secondary schools in the area
- house prices – average house price; £160,000: average rental price; £513: average first home price; £135,000
- industry breakdown, largest private sector employers in Dumfries and Galloway:
- Vigilant Protect UK Limited
- Tesco Stores
- Ah UK Animal Health (Pvt) Ltd
- Browns Manufacturing
- Gates (UK) Ltd
- Green Space
- Dumfries and Galloway greenspace:
- total area of greenspace (ha): 3180
- area of publicly accessible greenspace (ha): 2120
- greenspace as percentage of urban area: 34% (urban Scotland: 39%)
- publicly accessible greenspace as percentage of urban area: 23% (urban Scotland: 25%)
- area of green space per 1000 people (ha): 35 (urban Scotland 24%)
- area of publicly accessible greenspace per 1000 people (ha): 23% (urban Scotland 16%)
- crime rates, lower crime rate than Scottish average. 541 crimes per 10,000 people compared to Scottish average of 550
Further information
If you have any specific questions about moving to Dumfries and Galloway, from housing and schools to jobs or communities, we’re here to help.
email: [email protected]
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