St Thomas, Exeter

St Thomas has a railway station with direct trains into Exeter, solid local schools including an Outstanding-rated nursery, and house prices that won't stretch your budget as far as neighbouring areas — especially if you're after a detached or semi-detached home. You'll find everything you need day-to-day: supermarkets, pharmacies, parks, and a sports centre are all within walking distance. Nearly a third of residents work from home, which tells you something about the flexible, local lifestyle here. Crime's been dropping steadily over the last two years, and transport costs are low, so you get Exeter connectivity without paying city-centre prices.