Three Scottish cities are among the top 10 places in the UK to raise a family, according to a study.
The research, conducted by Surrey estate agents Kaybridge Residential, looked at 21 of the biggest cities in the UK, using eight weighted factors to give each a “family-friendliness” score out of 100.
The eight factors were house prices, crime rates, total number of schools, affordability of childcare based on monthly costs, health care, green space, air quality, and the overall cost of living.
Researchers normalised and weighted each factor based on how important it is to family life, with crime rates and school access carrying the highest weights.
Out of all the cities in the UK, Glasgow placed the highest in the rankings - making it the best spot in the county to raise a family according to the study. Edinburgh and Aberdeen were also named in the top five.
At the other end of the scale, London was ranked as the worst place to raise a family in 2026 for its eye-watering property prices. London was followed by Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol.
Kevin Barzegar, Founder and CEO of Kaybridge Residential, said: “Parents today are weighing up far more than just house prices.
“They're looking at the complete package: good schools within reach, safe streets, affordable childcare, and access to green spaces where children can play.”
1. Glasgow – Score: 100.00
Glasgow takes the top spot with a perfect score of 100. With average house prices at just £157,900, it's one of the most accessible cities for first-time buyers and growing families, according to the study. The city also boasts 192 schools, giving parents plenty of choice. It has a crime rate index of 45.5 and an air quality index rating of just 16. Monthly childcare costs are £867, and the Green Space Index of 1.18 means families have strong access to parks and outdoor areas. | UEFA via Getty Images
2. Aberdeen – Score: 91.39
Aberdeen comes in second with a score of 91.39, offering even lower house prices at £135,500, the cheapest in the top ten. The city has a crime rate of 36.8, and like Glasgow, Aberdeen benefits from a strong Green Space Index of 1.18 and relatively affordable childcare at £893 per month. While it has fewer schools (62) than larger cities, this reflects its smaller population rather than limited education access. The Health Care Index of 76.3 shows strong access to medical services. | NurPhoto via Getty Images
3. York – Score: 85.64
The pretty city of York ranks third with 85.64. Average house prices here are £315,504 (more than double Glasgow's) yet the city still scores highly thanks to having the lowest crime rate index in the top three at just 27.1, highest Health Care Index at 82.39 and a remarkably low cost of living at £2,222.95, which helps offset higher property prices. The city has 74 schools and monthly childcare costs of £929. | Bloomberg via Getty Images
4. Edinburgh - Score: 84.55
Despite expensive average house prices (£279,300), Scotland's capital scored well on its number of schools (124), as well as its Health Care Index ( 77) and Green Space Index (1.18). However, costs were expensive, with monthly childcare costs averaging £1271 combined with a high general cost of living. | Universal Images Group via Getty