A place where life works
Living in North Highlands means enjoying modern services without compromising on quality of life. Our region offers high-quality schools, accessible healthcare and affordable housing – all within safe, friendly communities where people look out for one another.
Education is a key strength. UHI North, West and Hebrides supports lifelong learning and local careers, while our secondary school campus has benefited from multimillion pound investments.
With a strong sense of community, low crime rates and housing that allows people to put down roots, daily life feels balanced and secure. Add world-class natural surroundings and space to breathe, and it’s easy to see why people choose to build their lives here.
Key figures
Everything you need – right on your doorstep.
Investment in Thurso campus
Highland Council has committed £100m to creating a ‘corridor of opportunity’ in Thurso town centre, combining education and community services in one bespoke modern campus.
Average cost of a house in Caithness
Young people can easily get a foot on the property ladder here, with average prices in the mid £100,000s, compared with £240k in the rest of Highland and £271k in England.
Modern, welcoming schools
In North Highland, education is about more than classrooms – it’s about creating places where young people and communities can thrive. Wick’s award-winning East Caithness Community Campus, opened in 2017, brings nursery, primary and secondary education together under one roof, alongside a well-loved library, gym and swimming pool. It’s a true community asset, designed to support learning, wellbeing and connection.
In neighbouring Thurso, Highland Council has committed £100 million through its Highland Investment Plan to deliver new school facilities at the heart of the town, alongside the existing UHI North, West and Hebrides campus. This once-in-a-generation investment creates the opportunity to co-locate education with other public services, forming a vibrant new community hub and strengthening the town centre for generations to come.
Watch: Kenny explains why he loves living in North Highland
latest news
Browse our blog for insights into life in North Highland.
How the north of Scotland is emerging as a global clean energy powerhouse
Focus North programme manager Peter Faccenda reflects on the launch of the Just Transition Commission's final report in Thurso last week.As the Just Transition Commission filed its final report in this session of Parliament, it was no accident that they chose Thurso...
Opportunity on our doorstep: reflecting on Caithness Jobs and How To Get Them
This weekend's Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them event was an uplifting reminder of the opportunity, ambition and collaboration that defines our region.What a day! It was a pleasure to showcase our region at the Caithness Jobs event and so uplifting to see the...
EVENT: Caithness Jobs – and how to get them
Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them returns next week, linking local talent with employers from across the region. Neillian Rodger, Social Value Coordinator at Murphy, explains why it’s one of the highlights of her working year.Last year, I had the opportunity to...
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