The Sunday Times has unveiled its list of the best places to live in Yorkshire, with Sheffield earning recognition as one of the top places to live in the North.

The judges were looking for vibrant locations with a strong sense of community, meaning their verdict isn’t based on well-known cities, with places like York notably absent.

While Ilkley was named the regional winner, Sheffield’s inclusion in the prestigious list reaffirms its reputation as a thriving city with a strong sense of community.

Developments in areas like Hillsborough garnered significant attention, as a growing number of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes foster a close-knit community.

The guide said: “A combination of burgeoning creative industries and judicious regeneration is relighting Sheffield’s fire, bringing a wave of cinnamon buns, sourdough and single-origin coffee in its wake.

“Sheffield has the best state schools in Yorkshire, 80 public parks, and the Peak District on its doorstep.”

It also gained recognition on account of its independent shops, bars and restaurants, particularly around Division Street and Devonshire Quarter, where the likes of Steam Yard café, Glass Onion vintage, and the Cambridge Street Collective food hall are enhancing the city’s indie identity.

Sheffield was praised for its focus on community over cost. Unlike some previous winners, who now have soaring house prices, Sheffield was praised for its genuine sense of community and quality of life rather than status or property values.

John Hunter,19, a University of Sheffield student, said: ” I particularly like the individual expression and the sense of the community that Sheffield has due to the number of students.

“I was drawn to the city by the renowned culture which is embedded into it.”

With Sheffield proudly hosting the largest food court in Europe and one of England’s largest indoor retail markets, its ranking success is hardly surprising.

The return of Pulp and Jarvis Cocker in June is also a significant cultural moment that underscores Sheffield’s improvements as a city, which is not only vibrant and social but also extremely significant culturally in the UK

This recognition serves as a well-deserved tribute to Steel City residents and the city’s growing achievements in financial, environmental, and social progress.