Serving as the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a vibrant, riverside city and one of the country’s most popular places to live. It’s famed for its shipyards where the ill-fated RMS Titanic was constructed before sinking in the North Atlantic Ocean. Once known for its conflict, Belfast is reinventing itself with world-class attractions and a burgeoning food scene.
If you’re thinking about moving to Belfast, this guide is here to help with useful information about renting property in the City Centre and the lifestyle it offers.
Living in Belfast City Centre
The bustling heart of Belfast has seen a remarkable facelift over the last 10 years, transforming into a hub of innovation for residents and visitors alike. It’s home to world-class museums, inspiring galleries, and live music venues where both contemporary and traditional Irish music make waves. Not only that, but the area boasts an enticing choice of globally-inspired restaurants, cosy cafes, and bars that stay open into the early hours.
In recent years, the most striking change in Belfast is the rejuvenation of the Cathedral Quarter, a cobblestoned district that’s renowned for its innovative art institutions and eclectic nightlife venues. Just across the river is the famous Titanic Quarter, named after the ship that was launched from its slipway. Here, you’ll find not only the innovative Titanic Belfast museum but an abundance of attractions celebrating the city’s maritime heritage.
On the western edge of Belfast City Centre is the Gaeltacht Quarter, an authentic neighborhood that’s renowned for its political street art and cultural hub celebrating Irish music, dance, and language. A thriving student scene can be found in Queen’s Quarter, which is home to Queen’s University, the Botanic Gardens, and the impressive Ulster Museum.
Average rental prices in Belfast City Centre
On average, you can expect to pay just over £1,100 per calendar month for a three-bedroom rental property in central Belfast. Prices are slightly lower for a two-bedroom apartment and just under £900 per calendar month for a one-bedroom property. Renters looking for four-bedroom places in Belfast City Centre should budget around £1,500 a month, while those after five bedrooms will be looking at just under £2,000.
The average rental prices in Belfast City Centre are above the national average. In 2023, the average cost of a rental property in Northern Ireland was £879 a month, an increase of 12.55% compared to the previous year. During 2023, Northern Ireland recorded the highest increase in private rent of any country in the United Kingdom.
Secure a Belfast rental today
If you want to effortlessly make the move to Belfast City Centre, check out Rentola, which boasts the largest number of private listings in the United Kingdom. Its apartments for rent in Belfast range from modern developments to historic residences that have been modified to suit a contemporary lifestyle.
When searching on Rentola, you can filter the results based on the location you prefer, the budget available, the number of bedrooms, and the type of property you desire. With options to suit all budgets and lifestyles, Belfast City Centre offers inspired living surrounded by culture and history.
Who is Belfast City Centre ideal for?
Belfast’s four quarters offer something unique and collectively appeal to people from all walks of life. From young professionals wanting a newly constructed apartment to growing families in search of space, the City Centre is ideal for those seeking a cosmopolitan, safe and secure lifestyle.
The allure of apartment living in the heart of the city is popular with first-time buyers and young professionals looking to put down roots. Nearby are historic Victorian and Edwardian row houses that offer character and charm, with the added benefit of outdoor spaces.
Things to do in Belfast City Centre
When you rent a property in Belfast City Centre, you’re on the doorstep of an abundance of attractions. These include the iconic Titanic Belfast, which tells the story of this legendary ship in the spot where it all began. Changing exhibitions, theatrical performances, and experimental works take place at the MAC, just one of many cultural venues that are putting Belfast on the map.
When it comes to shopping, there is no shortage of inspiration, whether you’re after cheap and cheerful or designer brands. Fresh produce and artisan goods can be found at the buzzing St. George’s Market, a local institution that has been going strong since the late 19th century.
After work or study, you can stroll along the riverfront trails and soak up the city skyline before taking advantage of Belfast’s buzzing nightlife scene. Whether you want to listen to Irish music in a traditional pub, watch a performance at the Grand Opera House, or party into the early hours at a nightclub, Belfast City Centre offers something for everyone.
