Scotland · Scotland
Aberdeen area guide
Population
231,780
ONS 2024
Avg. house price
£130,120
-5.6% /yr
Sources: ONS mid-2024 population, HM Land Registry / ONS house prices.
About Aberdeen
Aberdeen is Scotland's third-largest city, located on the north-east coast where the rivers Dee and Don meet the North Sea. Often called the 'Granite City' because of the grey stone used in many of its older buildings, it has a long history as a fishing and trading port before becoming known internationally as the centre of the UK's North Sea oil and gas industry from the 1970s onwards. The city retains a working harbour, a compact historic core around Old Aberdeen, and a population of 231,780 (ONS mid-2024).
Schools & education
Aberdeen is home to two universities: the University of Aberdeen, founded in 1495 and one of the oldest universities in the UK, and Robert Gordon University (RGU), which has a strong reputation for professional and vocational courses including engineering, business and health sciences. Further education is provided by North East Scotland College, which offers a range of technical, vocational and access courses across several campuses in the city. The city has a mix of state primary and secondary schools run by Aberdeen City Council, alongside a small number of independent schools.
Transport & airports
Aberdeen railway station is served by ScotRail, with regular services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and further afield via connections to the wider UK network, including sleeper services to London. The city sits on the A90, which links it southwards to Dundee and Edinburgh and northwards towards Peterhead and Fraserburgh, while the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) bypasses the city centre to ease congestion. Aberdeen International Airport at Dyce, a few miles north-west of the city centre, offers domestic flights and a number of international and helicopter services supporting the offshore energy sector. Aberdeen Harbour also provides ferry links to Orkney and Shetland via NorthLink Ferries.
Economy & jobs
The city's economy has long been closely tied to the North Sea oil and gas industry, and Aberdeen is widely regarded as Europe's energy capital, with numerous operators, service companies and supply chain businesses based in and around the city. In recent years there has been a growing focus on renewable energy, including offshore wind, as the sector diversifies. Beyond energy, major employers include the two universities, NHS Grampian, and public sector bodies, while fishing, food and drink, and agriculture remain part of the wider regional economy.
Living in Aberdeen
Aberdeen offers a mix of city amenities and easy access to the surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside and coastline, including sandy beaches close to the city centre. Cultural attractions include Aberdeen Art Gallery, His Majesty's Theatre, and Duthie Park, alongside a lively food and drink scene supported by the city's student and professional population. The presence of the oil and gas industry has historically given Aberdeen a more international and transient population than many UK cities of similar size, with residents from across the UK and overseas. It tends to suit those working in energy, education or public services, as well as students, and house prices, with an average of £130,120, are relatively affordable compared with many other UK cities.
Aberdeen FAQs
What is the population of Aberdeen?
Aberdeen has a population of 231,780, according to ONS mid-2024 estimates, making it Scotland's third-largest city.
What is the nearest airport to Aberdeen?
Aberdeen International Airport, located at Dyce a few miles north-west of the city centre, is the main airport serving the city, offering domestic, international and helicopter services.
What are the main universities in Aberdeen?
Aberdeen is home to the University of Aberdeen, founded in 1495, and Robert Gordon University (RGU), both well-established higher education institutions.
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This guide is provided for general information. Statistics are from official sources on the dates shown; other details are an overview and may change. Browse all UK city guides →