Shaftesbury is one of Newport's most affordable neighbourhoods, with terraced homes averaging £161,000 and semi-detached houses around £200,600, both well below prices in neighbouring Caerleon and Malpas. Day-to-day living is well covered, with two supermarkets, convenience stores, a GP practice, dentists and a pharmacy all close by. Families have a solid choice of schools, including Welsh-medium and special education options. Crime has fallen steadily since 2024, and burglary rates are notably low, giving Shaftesbury a calmer, more settled feel than nearby Stow Hill. Like much of this part of Newport, getting around Shaftesbury relies heavily on the car. Bus coverage is limited, though cycle paths and good road links keep residents connected to the rest of the city. Living costs sit close to the UK average, with transport spending notably lower than the national figure, making it a practical option for budget-conscious buyers. The surrounding neighbourhoods add useful context. Malpas, just next door, offers a similar mix of affordability and practicality, with a hospital and two primary schools on the doorstep, while Stow Hill brings stronger transport links, including a railway station, and a wider education and healthcare offer. Bettws matches Shaftesbury on affordability and family amenities but leans even more on car travel. Allt-yr-yn, by contrast, commands higher prices for its larger homes. Together, these neighbourhoods paint Shaftesbury as a well-rounded, cost-effective place to settle, with everyday essentials close at hand and easy access to the stronger transport and healthcare facilities found just beyond its borders.