Best Cardiff Commuter Towns To Move To

Home to enterprise and big business, it’s unsurprising that the Welsh capital, Cardiff, is the largest commuter destination across the country. But where do people choose to live that allows them to easily travel to and from work each day?

Comparing average property price*, distance from the Capital, and the cost of commuting**, we’ve picked out the top towns near Cardiff for you to consider – whether you’re looking to move away from city mania, or you’ve found a job in the area and not sure of the favourite spots!

Pontyclun

Average house price: £236,870

Distance to Cardiff: 15 minutes by public transport, 30 minutes by car

Cost to commute: £1,060 annually

Positioned 12 miles west of the city, Pontyclun is just one of a cluster of nice villages near Cardiff, and has become a popular location for professionals working in the Capital; whether you travel in by car or train, you’ll arrive within half an hour.

Reasonable property prices are the main selling point of the area, which attracts young professionals and families alike, but you’ll also find an enviable collection of great primary schools and sports clubs perfect for the kids.

Or if it’s food and drink hotspots you’re on the lookout for, you’re certain to discover an array of local and independent pubs, bars, and restaurants on your doorstep. However, if you’re simply looking to relocate to one of the many gorgeous towns close to Cardiff, with a warming community spirit at its heart, Pontyclun is a strong candidate.

Barry

Average house price: £219,448

Distance to Cardiff: 30 minutes by public transport, 30 minutes by car

Cost to commute: £796 annually

While Gavin and Stacey fame might have put Barry on the wider map, locals have never underestimated the value the town has to offer; just half an hour from the city centre, the Vale of Glamorgan’s most populated area Barry has long been among the favourite towns near Cardiff as a commuter hub.

Property here is largely affordable, and it’s the ideal area to relocate to if you’re hoping to settle down on a modest budget. But this doesn’t mean the area is short on amenities; the opposite in fact! Whether it’s spending weekends enjoying the seaside, meandering up the miles upon miles of coastline, or exploring the various foodie favourites, you’ll never be stuck for things to do. And when it comes to the kids, you’re spoilt for choice with excellent-rated schools, all within reasonable walking or driving distance.

Lisvane

Average house price: £470,055

Distance to Cardiff: 20 minutes by public transport, 20 minutes by car

Cost to commute: £796 annually

While property in Lisvane might be at the more expensive end of the spectrum, you’re getting what you pay for here. Considered one of the most affluent communities in Wales, Lisvane boasts the perfect setting to settle down and raise a family away from the hustle and bustle of inner-city life.

With wide green spaces, gorgeous independent bars and eateries, and excellent primary and secondary school solutions, you’ll be sure to fall in love with life in Lisvane. But we’re aware that not everyone can afford a half a million-pound home, so maybe consider the surrounding area where you’ll find yet more of the best villages near Cardiff that still offer a similar lifestyle.

As far as commuting goes, you’re an effortless six-mile car journey from the Capital, or you can opt instead for the train which takes around the same travel time. In regard to weekend enjoyment, you’re spoilt for choice, with the glorious Welsh seaside, the stunning Caerphilly Castle, and various golf clubs all within striking distance.

Pontypridd

Average house price: £167,781

Distance to Cardiff: 30 minutes by public transport, 25 minutes by car

Cost to commute: £1,060 annually

If you’re looking at towns close to Cardiff, Pontypridd might be your next new home. With property prices here the most affordable of our five picks, the area is favourable for young professionals buying on a budget. Within half an hour from the Capital by car or train, you’re close enough to enjoy the benefits of fast-paced city life but far enough away to escape the madness at the end of the day.

And when it comes to the evenings and weekends, you’ve more than enough on your doorstep to keep you busy, whether locally or a short drive away. For example, the beautiful and renowned Brecon Beacons National Park is just a quick car journey northwards. Or you can spend your days off exploring and shopping in the city centre, with the choice of Cardiff or Newport close by.

Penarth

Average house price: £347,496

Distance to Cardiff: 15 minutes by public transport, 15 minutes by car

Cost to commute: £572 annually

A simple 15-minute drive is all that separates the popular seaside town of Penarth from the capital city of Cardiff, making for an uncomplicated and straightforward commute and ensuring you won’t be stuck on the road for long after work. Whether you’re resettling on your own, with a partner, or hoping to raise a family, Penarth could be the perfect balance between proximity to city excitement and a sense of relaxing escapism.

You might pay a bit more for property here in Penarth than other towns near Cardiff, but with stunning coastal views and weekend adventure, glorious green space, and an abundance of wonderful and independent restaurants and bars all on your doorstep, it’s worth the extra expense if you can afford to spend. And what’s more, you have an excellent pick of primary and secondary schools for the kids, within walking distance or a short hop in the car away.

 

Whether you’re hoping to finally settle down outside of the city centre or relocating from elsewhere in Wales, (or even England!), there are some incredible towns near Cardiff for you to consider, no matter your style or budget. Speed up the move with an instant valuation on your current home, or explore our blog for the latest property news.

 

*Average house price is according to the latest Zoopla estimates.

**Cost to commute is the annual fair according to trainline.