South West · England
Plymouth area guide
Population
272,067
ONS 2024
Avg. house price
£216,463
+2.9% /yr
Avg. rent (pcm)
£994
+5.3% /yr
Rental yield
5.5%
gross
Sources: ONS mid-2024 population, HM Land Registry / ONS house prices and ONS private rents.
About Plymouth
Plymouth is a city on the south coast of Devon, in South West England, where the rivers Plym and Tamar meet the sea at Plymouth Sound. With a population of around 272,067, it is the largest city in Devon and one of the principal urban centres in the South West. Plymouth has a long maritime and naval history, associated with figures such as Sir Francis Drake and the departure of the Mayflower in 1620. Heavily bombed during the Second World War, much of the city centre was rebuilt in the post-war decades, giving Plymouth a distinctive mix of historic quarters, such as the Barbican, and mid-20th-century planning around areas like Armada Way.
Schools & education
Plymouth's main higher education provider is the University of Plymouth, a large university with a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and a strong reputation in marine science, engineering and health-related subjects. Plymouth Marjon University (St Mark & St John) offers further higher education provision, including in education, sport and health disciplines. City College Plymouth provides further education, vocational training and apprenticeships for school leavers and adult learners. The city has a range of state primary and secondary schools, along with some independent schools, serving its resident population and surrounding catchment areas in Devon and Cornwall.
Transport & airports
Plymouth railway station sits on the main line to London Paddington, with regular services via Exeter, as well as CrossCountry trains connecting to Bristol, Birmingham and beyond. The city is linked to the wider road network via the A38, which runs east towards Exeter and the M5, and westwards into Cornwall, while the A386 provides access towards Tavistock and Dartmoor. Plymouth no longer has its own scheduled commercial airport; the nearest major airport is Exeter International Airport, roughly 45 miles away, with Cornwall Airport Newquay also within reach for some routes. Brittany Ferries operates passenger and vehicle services from Plymouth to Roscoff in France and Santander in Spain, and local bus and ferry services connect the city centre with outlying districts and across the Tamar to Cornwall.
Economy & jobs
Plymouth's economy has traditionally been shaped by its naval and maritime heritage, and HM Naval Base Devonport, operated with Babcock International, remains one of the city's largest employers and one of the biggest naval bases in Western Europe. The University of Plymouth and the NHS, particularly Derriford Hospital, are also major sources of employment. Marine industries, engineering, advanced manufacturing and research linked to marine science and ocean technology continue to play an important role, alongside retail, tourism and public sector services. House prices in Plymouth, with an average of around £216,463, and average monthly rents of about £994, are generally lower than many other UK cities, reflecting a comparatively affordable cost of living relative to wages.
Living in Plymouth
Life in Plymouth is closely tied to its coastal setting, with Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican and Plymouth Sound offering waterside walks, watersports and views out towards the English Channel. The city has a range of cultural venues, museums and a working harbour atmosphere, alongside easy access to Dartmoor National Park for outdoor pursuits. Plymouth's population includes a significant number of students, service families connected to the naval base, and long-established local communities, giving the city a varied social mix. It tends to suit those looking for a more affordable, coastal alternative to bigger cities, with a slower pace of life but still a reasonable range of amenities, shopping and transport connections.
Plymouth FAQs
What is the population of Plymouth?
According to ONS mid-2024 figures, Plymouth has a population of approximately 272,067.
What is the nearest major airport to Plymouth?
The nearest major airport is Exeter International Airport, around 45 miles away; Cornwall Airport Newquay is also accessible for some journeys.
What is the main university in Plymouth?
The University of Plymouth is the city's main university, alongside Plymouth Marjon University and City College Plymouth for further education.
Latest Plymouth property news
DevelopmentPlymouth's 96-Home Shortfall Signals a National Affordability Crunch
InvestmentScottish Naval Base Commands Premium Prices in Coastal Property Surge
DevelopmentPlymouth's £40m high-rise signals new era for social housing investment
InvestmentBristol leads South West property surge as regional cities outpace London
Development£23m Boscombe Council Housing Scheme Signals Social Housing Revival
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 →