Brighton, located in East Sussex, is more than just a charming seaside town. With a population of 273,369 as per the 2011 census and an average salary of £515 per week (according to the Office for National Statistics in April 2015), Brighton presents a unique blend of historical significance, vibrant cultural life, and modern economic dynamism. Known for its picturesque pebble beaches, lively seafront, and diverse community, Brighton has transformed from a modest fishing village into one of England’s most fashionable and inclusive cities. This article delves into various aspects of life in Brighton, including accommodation costs, historical roots, cultural vibrancy, and economic contributions, painting a comprehensive picture of why Brighton remains a beloved destination for both tourists and residents.
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Accommodation prices
Brighton offers a range of accommodation options, whether you’re looking to rent or buy.
If you rent
The average rent in Brighton, according to Valuation Office statistics for October 2017-September 2018, is £1150 per month. While in London this amount is slightly higher at £1473 per month. In Brighton, renting a room will cost an average of £507, a one-bedroom property £875, a two-bedroom £1175 and a three-bedroom £1500.
If you buy
According to HM Land Registry data for January 2019, the average property in the capital is £472,230 and in Brighton it is £371,819. The average price of a flat is £306,146, a row house is £395,941, a semi-detached house is £440,497 and a detached house is £685,314.
A bit of history
The earliest settlements in Brighton are thought to date back to the Neolithic period. Iron Age settlements, Roman villas and Romano-British farms have also been found in the area. However, in written sources Brighton was mentioned only in the XVI century under the name of Bristelmestune. Up to the end of the XVII century it was a mediocre fishing town. However, within a couple of decades it turned into one of the most fashionable resorts in England. The reason for this was the recommendation of Dr Richard Russell from the neighbouring town, who prescribed Brighton sea water to his patients. He even built a house on the shore, where he treated people by drinking the water and bathing in it. After a while Brighton became a favourite of the Prince Regent, the future George IV, and he ordered the architect George Nash to build a seaside residence in Brighton, known as the Royal Pavilion. This began Brighton and its true heyday. It continued to grow and in 1997 it annexed Hove, creating the unitary unit of Brighton & Hove. Today, Brighton needs no further introduction. It is Britain’s happiest city, which is why not only summer tourists, but also people who want to make Brighton their home, flock here.
There’s no arguing about tastes
Even though the beach is all pebbles and flocks of seagulls swoop overhead, many Londoners prefer Brighton to the hustle and bustle of the capital. “We moved here a few years ago, – says Jeanne, who has lived in London for eight years, – it was not an easy decision, but we have not regretted”. Many people are attracted not only by the sea, but also by the ratio between the quality of housing and property prices. Prices here are not the lowest, of course,” Jeanne continues, “but Brighton has a lot of advantages. It’s an open city, without any unnecessary boundaries or preconceptions”. Besides, you won’t have to ask the question “where to have dinner?”: Brighton has a huge number of cafes, restaurants and bars. The South Downs National Park is in your backyard, and it’s a hiker’s paradise.
“On sunny days, I can hardly drag myself out of the house because of the frenzied crowds on the streets and beach,” shares one resident, “so it makes me want to move closer to the outskirts. The perpetual bachelorette parties, sexual minorities and lack of parking are annoying. Not everyone is so worried about it, although the city is not in the top 100 best cities to live in the UK (USwitch 2015). “And I just love summer time, we’re outside all the time,” Jeanne rejoices, “where else can you have a picnic in the evening on the beach and listen to marvellous music? To walk along the pier and listen to the echoes of music again…”. The city offers a very rich cultural life. Theatre, music, comedy, festivals and shows: Brighton is a holiday that is always with you. This is where the most creative people in the country come together.
All the colours of the rainbow
Brighton’s reputation as the UK’s LGBTI city was centuries in the making. It should be noted that its residents are proud of the city’s status. Today, it is believed that around 15 per cent of Brighton’s adult residents identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual. And the influence of the community is very easy to spot on every street in the city, and especially in Kemp Town. But to see LGBTI people in full glory, it’s worth visiting the town in early August during Brighton Pride, the largest festival of its kind in the UK. It’s a colourful, grand parade through the streets of Brighton with an extravaganza culminating in Camp Town.
Silicon Brighton
Many people think that Brighton exists solely because of tourism and the professionals who work in London. In reality, this is not entirely true. There are several large companies in the city that provide thousands of jobs. For example, companies such as American Express, MFI, Lloyd’s Bank and ASDA are located in the city. Moreover, the retail sector brings in a lot of revenue for the city, as the local shopping centre is regionally important. Recently, creative, digital and media companies have started to come forward. For this reason, Brighton has even become known as Brighton Silicon-on-the-Sea, or simply “Silicon Beach”, similar to the American high-tech zone Silicon Valley. Social media monitoring company Brandwatch has set up its headquarters in Brighton. But, be that as it may, Brighton and Hove’s tourism industry generates hundreds of millions of pounds for the economy and employs tens of thousands of people.
It’s also worth noting the University of Brighton, which not only provides jobs for the city, but also endows the city with new minds. According to The complete university guide, it is ranked 106th among UK universities, but is very popular with locals and international students alike.
Leisure and Entertainment
Brighton is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and diverse entertainment options. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Brighton Festival, Brighton Fringe, and Brighton Pride, which draw visitors from across the UK and beyond. The Royal Pavilion, a former royal residence with stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture, is a must-visit landmark. For those interested in the arts, Brighton offers a plethora of theaters, galleries, and live music venues, ensuring there is always something to see and do. The Brighton Pier, with its amusement park, arcades, and eateries, provides a classic seaside experience, while the Lanes and North Laine areas are perfect for boutique shopping and discovering unique cafes and restaurants.
Education and Innovation
Brighton is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex, which attract students from around the world. These universities not only contribute to the city’s youthful and dynamic atmosphere but also drive innovation and research. The presence of these institutions has fostered a thriving tech and digital sector, earning Brighton the nickname “Silicon Beach.” The city’s commitment to education and innovation makes it an attractive destination for professionals and academics alike, contributing to its reputation as a hub of creativity and forward-thinking.
Conclusion
Brighton is a city that seamlessly combines historical charm with modern living. Its evolution from a small fishing town to a bustling seaside resort highlights its enduring appeal. Despite some drawbacks, such as high accommodation costs and crowded summer streets, the city offers a rich cultural life, scenic beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re drawn by its creative energy, historical significance, or the promise of a vibrant community, Brighton indeed feels like a perpetual holiday. The city’s thriving tourism industry, diverse population, and burgeoning tech scene ensure that Brighton remains not just a place to visit, but a place to call home.
