HOUSING
Moving to Caithness and Sutherland is made easier with support from local professionals who understand the property market. Estate agents in towns like Thurso, Wick, Dornoch, and Golspie can help you find the right home, whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or explore land for a self-build.
Many agents are independent, community-focused businesses offering a personal, responsive service. In Scotland, solicitors play a key role in buying and selling property. If you’re new to the Scottish system, which differs from elsewhere in the UK, local experts will guide you through the process, from viewings to getting the keys.
If you’re not ready to buy, renting is a flexible option. The rental market is smaller than in cities, but good-quality homes are available, from modern flats to traditional cottages and family houses. Rents are generally lower than the UK average, offering great value and quality of life.
Long-term lets are available through local agents, housing associations, and private landlords. If you’re relocating for work, some employers offer support with accommodation. Renting also gives you time to get to know different communities and services, like schools and transport, before committing to a purchase.
FINDING A NEW JOB
A career in the North Highlands is more than just a job, it’s a chance to live well, grow professionally, and join a close-knit community. Whether you’re just starting out, relocating, or looking for a fresh direction, Live North is here to help you find opportunities that match your ambitions and lifestyle.
Live North features the latest job vacancies across Caithness and Sutherland, from entry-level roles to senior positions in sectors like healthcare, education, hospitality, construction, and tech. The platform also showcases local apprenticeships and training opportunities, ideal for young people keen to earn, learn, and stay close to home.
Not all jobs are advertised publicly, which is why Live North offers a free, confidential Candidate Matching Service. Simply send in your CV and career goals, and the team will connect you with local employers seeking someone with your skills.
Bringing your job with you or starting a business? Live North offers guidance, local insight, and signposting to support services and funding options.
Live North is your go-to resource for finding the right role in the North Highlands.
EDUCATION
Raising a family in the North Highlands means your children can grow up in a safe, welcoming environment with plenty of space and strong community support. Whether you’re new to the area or returning home, you’ll find a wide range of high-quality childcare and education options.
Scotland’s education system is based on the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE), which focuses on developing skills for learning, life, and work. Health and wellbeing, literacy, and numeracy are core elements, embedded across all state, private, and homeschooling options.
Schools operate within designated catchment areas, which determine enrolment. You can explore school catchments using the Highland Council’s interactive map.
HEALTHCARE
Healthcare across the North Highlands is delivered by NHS Highland, which operates a well-connected network of hospitals, GP practices, dental services, and community health centres. Key hospitals such as Caithness General in Wick and Lawson Memorial in Golspie provide vital care, including accident and emergency services, maternity units, and outpatient clinics.
GP surgeries are located throughout both towns and rural areas. Out-of-hours medical support is available, and NHS 24 offers round-the-clock health advice via phone and online.
If you’re relocating to the area, registering with a local GP practice is an important first step to ensure access to NHS services. While the healthcare infrastructure serves a largely rural population, it remains compassionate, adaptable, and committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of residents at every stage of life.
Scotland's migration service
Are you considering a move to Scotland from outside the UK?
Scotland’s Migration Service is here to support individuals settling in Scotland.
Developed by the Scottish Government, this online platform provides clear and reliable information for individuals, employers, and investors about migrating to Scotland. It is designed to help people make a smooth transition to life in Scotland, assist employers in navigating the immigration system, and attract international talent to address skills shortages.
The service offers information and advice on a wide range of topics, including housing, employment, education, healthcare, visas and immigration, and much more.
Find out more and book a free advice appointment with an adviser at Scotland.org.
Local estate agents in towns like Thurso, Wick, Dornoch, and Golspie can help you find homes to buy or rent. Renting is a flexible option with good-quality, affordable properties available. Solicitors assist with the Scottish property buying process.
The region offers a range of roles across healthcare, education, construction, hospitality, and more. Live North connects candidates with local employers, apprenticeships, and training opportunities, plus a free Candidate Matching Service to find roles suited to your skills and lifestyle.
Scotland’s Migration Service provides information and advice for international movers, including support on visas, housing, healthcare, employment, and education. You can book free advice appointments via Scotland.org to ease your transition.
Upon arrival, register with a local GP surgery to access NHS Highland services, including hospitals, dental care, and out-of-hours support. NHS 24 offers 24/7 advice by phone or online to assist with urgent health needs.
Yes! Many professionals work remotely or relocate their careers to the North Highlands. The area also supports entrepreneurs with funding, expert advice, and local networks to help start or grow a business.
Absolutely. The North Highlands provides a wealth of apprenticeships, training programmes, and entry-level jobs across diverse sectors such as healthcare, engineering, hospitality, and education. Young people can develop valuable skills, gain real-world experience, and build rewarding careers while enjoying a supportive community and a great quality of life.
Yes, the North Highlands offers a safe, welcoming environment with strong community support, excellent schools, and plenty of space for children to grow. Families benefit from high-quality childcare, access to outdoor activities, and a close-knit community atmosphere, making it an ideal place to raise children.
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