Are you dreaming of coastal sunsets, historic charm, and a tight-knit community?
Nestled between the rugged Scottish Highlands and the serene North Sea, Moray is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Moray Firth Moving & Storage is here to help you make that dream a reality!
Moving home can be a particularly stressful time, with so many things to consider that the whole process can quickly become overwhelming.
As a professional removals company in Moray, we have the perfect insight to ensure your move runs as smoothly as possible.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the unique features that make Moray a truly wonderful place to call home.
From its housing market to employment opportunities, education to leisure activities, we’ll cover everything you need to know before moving to this beautiful area.
Our aim is to make your move easier by providing you with a clear idea of what living in Moray is like.
An Introduction to Moray
Moray is a renowned county in the north-east of Scotland, famous not just for being the birthplace of Macbeth, but also for its malt whisky, moderate climate, and the stunning Cairngorms National Park.
Home to several lovely towns and villages, each with its own unique charms and attractions, Moray boasts one of the fastest-growing populations in Scotland.
Moray’s Unique Wildlife
Perhaps most famous for its bottlenose dolphins, Moray is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
The Moray Firth is home to over 130 dolphins, making it one of the top spots in Europe for dolphin-watching.
Our company, Moray Firth Moving & Storage, is extremely proud of this heritage (check out our logo!).
Harbour seals can often be found lounging on mudbanks and sandy beaches throughout the county.
Venture further into the firth, and you might spot porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, pilot whales, minke whales, and, on very rare occasions, orcas!
Housing Market in Moray
There are a variety of properties to suit everyone here in Moray!
Relocating to the wonderful Scottish coastline is more affordable here than in many other parts of the country!
Plus, when it comes to property types, buyers are spoilt for choice.
Moray offers a range of traditional homes rich in character and history, as well as newly built modern properties.
Some of the grander houses in the county boast the iconic Victorian style, with excellent examples found in Moray’s larger towns like Elgin and Forres.
But it’s not all period homes, these areas are also well suited to those seeking something more modern!
If you are thinking of moving to the area but aren’t buying, there is a large variety of rental housing available, as well as several new housing developments being created in the region.
These range from starter homes for young professionals to long-term family homes – meaning there really is a home for everyone in Moray.
House Prices in Moray
If you’re looking to buy a home, you’ll be pleased to hear that your money will go much further in Moray than in many other places in the UK.
The average property price sits at around £211,747.
So, whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, Moray offers excellent value for money.
Keep up to date with the latest Moray house prices HERE.
Cost of Living in Moray
Moving to Moray offers a cost-effective lifestyle compared to larger UK cities.
The average cost of living is lower, with affordable housing, reasonable utility bills, and competitive grocery prices.
Dining out and entertainment are also budget-friendly, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
If you are still struggling with the cost of living after you move, the Moray Council have put together a wonderfully helpful page on their website called the ‘Cost of Living Hub’.
It is packed with advice on how to save money when living in Moray and is certainly worth checking out!
Employment Opportunities
Moray boasts a diverse economy with opportunities in sectors like whisky production, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy.
Major employers in the region include famous distilleries such as Glenfiddich and The Macallan, as well as RAF Lossiemouth and Kinloss Barracks, which contribute significantly to local employment.
If you are moving to Moray and are yet to find employment don’t fret!
There are plenty of places you can start your job hunt.
Myjobscotland is an excellent website packed with local jobs in various sectors.
Education in Moray
Families moving to Moray will find a range of quality educational institutions.
The region has several highly-rated primary and secondary schools, both state and independent.
For higher education, Moray College UHI offers various courses and is part of the University of the Highlands and Islands network.
Healthcare Facilities
Residents have access to excellent healthcare services, including Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin, the second-largest hospital in the North of Scotland.
There are also numerous clinics and medical centres throughout the county to ensure comprehensive medical care is readily available to all of Moray’s residents.
Leisure and Recreation
Outdoor Activities
Moray is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking in the Cairngorms National Park to surfing in Lossiemouth, there’s something for everyone.
Golfers can enjoy several top-quality courses, including the renowned Moray Golf Club.
Cultural Attractions
The region is rich in history and culture, with numerous castles, museums, and distilleries to explore.
The Malt Whisky Trail is a must-visit for whisky lovers, showcasing some of the world’s most famous distilleries.
Climate and Weather
You may be surprised to hear that Moray has been coined Scotland’s “Sunshine Coast”!
Moray experiences a temperate maritime climate, something not usually associated with Scotland.
You can expect cool summers and relatively mild winters.
Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but Moray is one of the driest places in the country.
Lossiemouth receives an average of 672.7mm of rain per year, significantly less than the 1,571mm national average.
Safety and Crime Rates
Moray is known for its low crime rates and strong community spirit, making it a safe and welcoming place to live.
Neighbourhoods are friendly, and residents often take part in local events and community initiatives.
Transport Links in Moray
Road Links
Moray is a very well-connected region.
Locals can easily navigate the county by road, primarily via the A96, which runs from Inverness in the west to Aberdeen in the east.
The A95 and A941 are other major roads providing access to various towns and attractions within Moray.
Rail Links
While Moray’s rail network is limited, it remains essential.
The main rail line connecting Moray to the rest of Scotland is the Inverness to Aberdeen line, with stations in both Elgin and Forres.
Trains on this route provide scenic views of the countryside, making for a wonderful journey.
Train services in Moray can be less frequent than in major cities, so it’s important to check schedules in advance, especially if you rely on trains for commuting or travelling long distances.
Public Transportation
An extensive public bus network connects towns and villages throughout the region.
Bus services are operated by various companies, and schedules and routes can be found online or at local bus stations.
In addition to buses and trains, Moray is served by community transport initiatives and taxi services, ensuring that even those without a car can get around conveniently.
Thinking of Moving to Moray?
Relocating to a new area is never an easy task.
Moving to Moray will take some planning, but as you can see, there are plenty of great reasons to make the move!
Ensuring you have the assistance of a professional removals company when moving to Moray is vital. With years of experience moving individuals and families alike to locations throughout Scotland and the UK, Moray Firth Moving & Storage can assist you with every aspect of your move.
Our expert team can guide you through every element of your move, ensuring a smooth transition. For added assurance, you will have the knowledge that you are dealing with a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR).
Ready to Make the Move?
Contact Moray Firth Moving & Storage today for a free, no-obligation quote and take the first step towards your new adventure!
- Call us at 01309 580 030
- Fill out our quick and easy contact form here
A member of our team will be more than happy to help you get settled in Moray in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Moray a good place for families?
A: Absolutely! With excellent schools, safe neighbourhoods, and plenty of family-friendly activities, Moray is ideal for raising children.
Q: What is the weather like when living in Moray?
A: Moray enjoys a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters. It’s one of the sunniest and driest regions in Scotland.
Q: Are there employment opportunities in Moray?
A: Yes, Moray has a diverse economy with opportunities in whisky production, tourism, agriculture, defence, and renewable energy.
