Yorkshire and the Humber · England
Kingston upon Hull area guide
Population
275,401
ONS 2024
Avg. house price
£135,051
+4.8% /yr
Avg. rent (pcm)
£690
+7.4% /yr
Rental yield
6.1%
gross
Sources: ONS mid-2024 population, HM Land Registry / ONS house prices and ONS private rents.
About Kingston upon Hull
Kingston upon Hull, usually just called Hull, is a city in East Yorkshire at the point where the River Hull meets the Humber Estuary, on England's east coast. It has a long history as a major English port, built on trade, fishing and maritime industry, and its historic Old Town and marina still reflect that seafaring past. In recent years Hull has become known for its regeneration and cultural life, particularly after holding the UK City of Culture title in 2017, which brought investment into public spaces, galleries and theatres. With a population of 275,401, it remains one of the larger urban centres in Yorkshire and the Humber.
Schools & education
Hull's main higher education provider is the University of Hull, a long-established university with a campus to the north of the city centre, offering a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Hull College provides further education and vocational training, including apprenticeships and technical courses linked to local industries such as engineering and health care. The city has a range of state primary and secondary schools serving its various neighbourhoods, along with some independent and faith schools. For higher education beyond Hull itself, nearby cities such as Leeds and York offer additional university options within commuting distance.
Transport & airports
Hull is well connected by rail, with Hull Paragon Interchange serving as the main railway station, offering direct services to London King's Cross via Hull Trains, as well as regular connections to Leeds, Manchester and other Yorkshire towns via TransPennine Express. The city sits at the eastern end of the M62 motorway, giving road access west towards Leeds, Manchester and beyond, alongside other A-road links across East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The Humber Bridge, one of the UK's notable suspension bridges, connects Hull to North Lincolnshire. The nearest airport is Humberside Airport, a short drive across the Humber Bridge, while Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester Airport offer wider domestic and international flight options for longer journeys.
Economy & jobs
Hull's economy has historically been shaped by its port, fishing industry and maritime trade, and the Port of Hull remains an active hub for shipping, logistics and trade with continental Europe. The city has developed a significant role in renewable energy, with a large offshore wind turbine manufacturing facility (Siemens Gamesa) based at the Alexandra Dock, supporting the wider Humber region's growing renewables sector. Other major employers include Smith & Nephew, a global medical technology company with a manufacturing presence in Hull, and the large BP chemicals complex at nearby Saltend. KCOM, a locally rooted telecommunications provider, is also a well-known employer, alongside the University of Hull, Hull College and the local NHS trusts.
Living in Kingston upon Hull
Life in Hull tends to suit people looking for an affordable, down-to-earth city with a strong sense of identity and a growing cultural scene. Housing and rental costs are notably lower than the UK average, with average house prices around £135,051 and average monthly rents around £690, making it attractive for first-time buyers, families and those relocating from more expensive cities. The city centre and Fruit Market area have seen ongoing regeneration, with galleries, independent shops, bars and music venues alongside established attractions such as The Deep aquarium, Ferens Art Gallery and Hull Truck Theatre. Its compact size, waterside setting and mix of history and modern culture make it well suited to a range of residents, from students and young professionals to families and retirees seeking a lower cost of living within reach of the Yorkshire coast and countryside.
Kingston upon Hull FAQs
What is the population of Kingston upon Hull?
According to ONS mid-2024 estimates, Kingston upon Hull has a population of 275,401.
What is the nearest major airport to Hull?
Humberside Airport, just across the Humber Bridge, is the nearest airport, while Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester Airport offer more extensive flight options further afield.
What is the main university in Hull?
The University of Hull is the city's principal university, complemented by Hull College for further education and vocational training.
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 →