Moving to Devon: 10 Essential Tips Before You Make the Move

It's easy to understand why so many people dream of moving to Devon.

With its spectacular coastline, sandy beaches, rolling countryside, thriving market towns and relaxed pace of life, Devon offers a lifestyle that many people feel they've been searching for.

Over the past few years, interest in relocating to Devon has surged, with remote working making it possible for more people to swap city life for sea views, country walks and a stronger sense of community.

But before you start browsing estate agent windows in Salcombe or imagining life on Dartmoor, there are a few things worth considering.

Whether you're relocating permanently, buying a second home or investing in a holiday property, here are ten expert tips for making a successful move to Devon.

1. Start With Your Lifestyle, Not the Property

One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving to Devon is falling in love with a house before considering whether the location actually suits their lifestyle.

Ask yourself:

• Will you need to commute?
• Are schools a priority?
• Do you want to be near the coast?
• Is a strong local community important?
• Do you prefer village, town or city life?
• Do you enjoy sailing, hiking, surfing or countryside living?

The best Devon property for you isn't necessarily the most beautiful—it's the one that supports the life you want to live.

2. Devon Offers Outstanding Value Compared to Many Parts of the UK

For many buyers relocating from London and the South East, Devon can offer significantly more space and lifestyle for your money.

While premium coastal hotspots such as Salcombe, Dartmouth and Croyde command substantial prices, many inland villages and market towns still provide excellent value.

You can often find larger homes, bigger gardens and a better quality of life than comparable properties in the Home Counties.

3. Decide Whether You Want Coast, Countryside or City

One of Devon's greatest strengths is its diversity.

Coastal Living

Locations such as Salcombe, Dartmouth, Hope Cove and Woolacombe offer stunning sea views, watersports and beach access.

Countryside Living

Dartmoor and the South Hams provide peaceful villages, open landscapes and a slower pace of life.

City Living

Exeter continues to attract professionals and families thanks to its excellent schools, independent restaurants, culture and transport links.

Understanding which lifestyle appeals most will dramatically narrow your property search.

4. Transport Links Matter More Than You Think

Devon may feel wonderfully remote, but accessibility varies considerably across the county.

Exeter offers direct rail services to London Paddington and Waterloo, while the A38 and M5 provide good road connections.

If regular travel is important, locations near Exeter, Totnes, Newton Abbot and Ashburton often prove popular.

Those seeking complete escape may prefer more remote locations—but it's worth remembering that narrow country lanes and longer journey times become part of everyday life.

5. Families Are Drawn Here for Good Schools and Outdoor Living

Devon has become increasingly attractive for families looking to escape urban environments.

Popular family-friendly locations include:

• Exeter
• Kingsbridge
• Totnes
• Tavistock
• Ashburton
• Moretonhampstead

Many offer excellent schools, thriving communities, sports clubs and easy access to outdoor activities.

For children growing up surrounded by beaches, moorland and countryside, Devon can be an exceptional place to call home.

6. Coastal Property Commands a Premium

If waking up to sea views is your dream, be prepared to pay for it.

Prime waterfront homes in Salcombe, Dartmouth and other sought-after coastal locations can achieve some of the highest property prices in the South West.

However, moving just ten or fifteen minutes inland can often reduce costs dramatically while still keeping beaches and coastal walks within easy reach.

For many buyers, this provides the perfect balance between lifestyle and affordability.

7. Consider Emerging Areas for Better Value

While household names such as Salcombe attract international attention, some of Devon's best-value locations are found slightly off the beaten track.

Areas around the South Hams, East Prawle, Start Point and smaller inland villages can offer exceptional character and value compared to the county's most famous destinations.

Many buyers discover that being a short drive from the coast delivers a better long-term lifestyle than being in the centre of a busy tourist hotspot.

8. Devon Is a Fantastic Place to Own a Holiday Home

The county remains one of the UK's strongest holiday-let markets.

When considering a holiday property, key features include:

• Parking
• Walking distance to amenities
• Outdoor space
• Multiple bathrooms
• Storage for beach and outdoor equipment
• Proximity to the coast, moors or popular attractions

Properties that combine lifestyle appeal with practical features often achieve the strongest occupancy levels.

9. You'll Be Welcomed More Than You Think

Many people worry about being viewed as an "outsider" when relocating.

In reality, Devon's communities are often incredibly welcoming.

Whether you're moving to a bustling market town or a quiet rural village, joining local clubs, supporting independent businesses and getting involved in community events can quickly help you feel at home.

The county attracts people from all over the UK and beyond, creating diverse and vibrant communities.

10. Think Long-Term

Perhaps the most important advice of all is to think beyond your immediate needs.

Ask yourself:

• Will this location still work in ten years?
• Are schools, healthcare and transport accessible?
• Could you work remotely here long-term?
• Does the property offer flexibility as your family grows or lifestyle changes?

The most successful moves are those planned with the future in mind.

Is Devon Right for You?

For many people, Devon represents the perfect balance of natural beauty, community, lifestyle and opportunity.

From the sailing waters of the South Hams and the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor to the vibrant streets of Exeter and the surf beaches of North Devon, the county offers something for everyone.

Whether you're searching for a permanent home, a holiday retreat or a lifestyle change, Devon continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in the UK.

At West Country Escapes, we explore the people, properties and places that make Devon—and the wider West Country—such a special place to call home.