Ballymena, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a vibrant town known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and excellent amenities. It boasts a mix of urban and rural settings with a strong community spirit, making it an attractive place to live. This document explores the best residential areas in Ballymena, focusing on their distinctive characteristics, the available housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Town Centre
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The Town Centre of Ballymena is the lively heart of the area, full of shops, cafes, and entertainment options. Residents enjoy easy access to a range of services and the convenience of urban living.
Characteristics of the Town Centre
* Culture: Rich heritage with various local events and festivals
* Transportation: Excellent public transport connections with bus and rail services
* Services: Numerous shops, restaurants, schools, and healthcare services
* Environment: Bustling and community-focused
Housing Options in the Town Centre
Apartments, Townhouses, and New Developments
Average Home Prices in the Town Centre
* Buying: £130,000 – £200,000
* Renting: £700 – £1,000/month
Galgorm
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Galgorm is a picturesque suburb known for its luxurious residential properties and beautiful surroundings, including the renowned Galgorm Castle and its extensive grounds.
Characteristics of the Galgorm
* Culture: Upscale community activities centered around the castle and park
* Transportation: Good access to main roads and nearby Ballymena
* Services: Close to golf courses, spas, and top-tier schools
* Environment: Tranquil and affluent
Housing Options in the Galgorm
Detached houses, Bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Galgorm
* Buying: £250,000 – £400,000
* Renting: £1,200 – £1,600/month
Ballykeel
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Ballykeel is a family-friendly residential area characterized by its spacious homes and strong community spirit, perfect for families looking for a suburban lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Ballykeel
* Culture: Close-knit community with local events for families
* Transportation: Conveniently located near primary roads; local bus services available
* Services: Local schools, parks, and various family-friendly amenities
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the Ballykeel
Semi-detached homes, Family houses
Average Home Prices in the Ballykeel
* Buying: £180,000 – £250,000
* Renting: £800 – £1,200/month
Cullybackey
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Cullybackey is a charming village located just outside Ballymena, offering a more rural atmosphere while still being close to town amenities, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Characteristics of the Cullybackey
* Culture: Rich local history and traditional village events
* Transportation: Good bus services; easy access to Ballymena and the M2 motorway
* Services: Local shops, schools, and recreational areas
* Environment: Quiet and laid-back
Housing Options in the Cullybackey
Bungalows, Period homes
Average Home Prices in the Cullybackey
* Buying: £160,000 – £220,000
* Renting: £650 – £900/month
The Paddocks
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The Paddocks is a modern estate in Ballymena, ideal for young professionals and families alike, offering contemporary housing options surrounded by communal spaces.
Characteristics of the The Paddocks
* Culture: Modern living with a focus on community engagement
* Transportation: Accessible public transport links, close to main roads
* Services: Nearby shopping facilities and local amenities
* Environment: Contemporary and vibrant
Housing Options in the The Paddocks
Modern semi-detached and detached houses
Average Home Prices in the The Paddocks
* Buying: £200,000 – £300,000
* Renting: £900 – £1,300/month
Parker’s Green
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Parker’s Green is an emerging residential area known for its affordability and accessibility, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and young families.
Characteristics of the Parker’s Green
* Culture: Community-driven events focusing on family engagement
* Transportation: Effective public transport links to Ballymena and beyond
* Services: Essential services including schools and shops available
* Environment: Inviting and developmental
Housing Options in the Parker’s Green
Affordable family homes, Terraced houses
Average Home Prices in the Parker’s Green
* Buying: £140,000 – £180,000
* Renting: £600 – £850/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Ballymena:
The best residential areas in Ballymena include the Town Centre, Galgorm, Ballykeel, Cullybackey, The Paddocks, and Parker’s Green.
Ballykeel is considered very family-friendly due to its community spirit and access to schools and parks.
The Parker’s Green area offers affordable housing options suitable for first-time buyers and young families.
The Town Centre has excellent transportation links, making it convenient for commuting and accessing services.
Average rents in Ballymena range from £600 to £1,600 per month depending on the area and type of accommodation.
The Paddocks is highly regarded among young professionals for its contemporary housing and community-focused lifestyle.
Yes, Ballymena has several reputable primary and secondary schools providing quality education.
Ballymena hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating local history and community diversity.
Galgorm is currently the most expensive area due to its luxury homes and amenities, with average property prices ranging from £250,000 to £400,000.
Ballymena offers a range of amenities, including shopping centers, leisure facilities, parks, and health services.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Ballymena:
Ballymena presents a diverse array of residential areas catering to various lifestyles, preferences, and budgets. Whether you are drawn to the bustling Town Centre for its urban vibe, the tranquility of Cullybackey, or the modern living found in The Paddocks, there's something for everyone. Each area benefits from its own unique ambiance, community features, and proximity to essential services. As Ballymena continues to grow and develop, it remains an appealing destination for homebuyers and renters alike, offering a friendly atmosphere and an enriching quality of life.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in property. I combine technology and analysis to help you discover the best places to live.