Low crime rates, affordable living costs, high average salaries and fast broadband all contributed to the Scottish capital gaining pole position.

The city has soared 97 places since the last Quality of Life Index in 2013, knocking Solihull off its perch in the process.

It has the lowest reported crime rate in the UK, cheap petrol and energy bills, high average salaries of £29,588 and disposable household income of £20,083, as well as fast average broadband download speeds of 30Mbs.

At the other end of the spectrum, Bradford was named the worst place to live in the UK.

According to the report, people in the northern town have among the lowest gross disposable household incomes of £13,654 a year, yet pay one of the highest average weekly rents of £92.60.

The employment rate is low at 65% and the average life expectancy is low at 77 years and seven months for men and 81 years and four months for women. To top it all, the area suffers from crowded primary schools and just 44% of pupils achieved five GCSEs at A-C grades, at Key Stage 4.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom for Bradford residents. Low essential costs such as energy, food and council tax, together with cheaper house prices and higher than average broadband speeds, ease the pain a little.

Ann Robinson, director of consumer policy at uSwitch.com, said: “Edinburgh has long been a city that’s inspired; a vibrant city with striking architecture and a world famous festival, all surrounded by stunning scenery. Now it’s official – Edinburgh is the best place to live in the UK. With low crime rates, high wages and affordable living costs, it’s not just the history and cultural attractions that are drawing people to Scotland’s capital.”

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