St Leonards and the surrounding Newton Abbot neighbourhoods offer a solid, family-friendly base in South Devon, with Good-rated schools a consistent thread running through the area, from Ambrook and Bradley to Bushell, College, Haytor and Kingsteignton West. Crime rates sit below regional and national averages across most neighbourhoods and are generally falling, while good air quality and a mild, if wet, Devon climate add to the appeal throughout. Everyday life is well supported too, with GP surgeries, dentists, pubs, cafes and restaurants cropping up consistently, and Bushell in particular stands out for healthcare provision with 4 GP practices and 5 hospitals nearby. House prices vary more than the amenities do. Bushell and Kingsteignton West offer some of the better value for flats, at £137,000 and £110,500 respectively, while Haytor commands higher prices, especially for terraces, reflecting its quieter, more rural Dartmoor setting. Bradley and College provide a reasonable middle ground, making them worth a look if you want value without sacrificing the family-friendly feel that defines the wider area. Transport links are generally good, with the A38 and A380 giving solid road access to Exeter and Plymouth for commuters, and Bushell benefiting from its own bus station. That said, some neighbourhoods lean more car-dependent, notably Haytor, which has no bus service at all, and Kingsteignton West, where cycleways are a strength but driving remains the default. If you're after a quieter, more rural pace with space to work from home, Haytor fits the bill, while Bushell and College suit those wanting everyday convenience and stronger public transport on their doorstep.