Brighton and Hove area guide

Population

283,870

ONS 2024

Avg. house price

£406,137

-0.9% /yr

Avg. rent (pcm)

£1,816

-0.4% /yr

Rental yield

5.4%

gross

Sources: ONS mid-2024 population, HM Land Registry / ONS house prices and ONS private rents.

About Brighton and Hove

Brighton and Hove is a city on the south coast of England, within the South East region, formed in 1997 when the neighbouring towns of Brighton and Hove were merged into a single unitary authority; it was granted city status in 2000. It sits between the South Downs and the English Channel, roughly 50 miles south of London. Long known as a seaside resort, Brighton developed as a fashionable Regency-era retreat, with the Royal Pavilion remaining its most famous landmark. Today the city blends its historic seafront, pier and narrow Lanes shopping streets with a reputation for creativity, independent culture and a large student population.

Schools & education

The city is home to two universities: the University of Sussex, based at Falmer on the edge of the city, and the University of Brighton, which has campuses across Brighton, Falmer and Eastbourne. Further education is provided by colleges such as BHASVIC (Brighton, Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College) and Varndean College, alongside a range of state and independent schools across the city, including the well-known independent Brighton College. State primary and secondary schools serve the wider population, with standards varying by area as in most UK cities.

Transport & airports

Brighton railway station is the main hub, offering direct services to London Victoria and London St Pancras via Thameslink, as well as coastal and regional connections along the south coast. The A23 links the city directly to London and the M23, while the A27 runs east–west connecting Brighton and Hove to Worthing, Lewes and beyond. The nearest major airport is London Gatwick, around 30 miles north, reachable by direct train in under an hour. Within the city, buses are the main form of public transport, and much of the seafront and city centre is walkable or cyclable.

Economy & jobs

Brighton and Hove has a diverse economy built on tourism, creative and digital industries, and a growing tech sector, often referred to locally as "Silicon Beach". Major employers include American Express, which has a significant UK operation based in the city, the two universities, and the NHS through the Royal Sussex County Hospital. Retail, hospitality and the conference and events trade, supported by the Brighton Centre, also contribute significantly to local employment, alongside a large number of small and independent businesses.

Living in Brighton and Hove

Life in Brighton and Hove is shaped by its seafront setting, strong arts and music scene, and a reputation for openness and diversity, including a well-established LGBTQ+ community. The city hosts the annual Brighton Festival and Brighton Fringe, among other cultural events, and has a lively independent café, restaurant and shopping culture centred on the Lanes and North Laine. Demographically it has a relatively young population, partly due to its universities, alongside families and commuters who travel to London for work. It tends to suit those seeking a coastal lifestyle with an urban, creative edge, though housing costs are higher than in much of the wider region.

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Brighton and Hove FAQs

What is the population of Brighton and Hove?

According to ONS mid-2024 estimates, the population of Brighton and Hove is 283,870.

What is the nearest major airport to Brighton and Hove?

London Gatwick, around 30 miles north of the city, is the nearest major airport, with a direct rail link taking under an hour.

What are the main universities in Brighton and Hove?

The city's two main universities are the University of Sussex, based at Falmer, and the University of Brighton, which has campuses in Brighton, Falmer and Eastbourne.

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