Area Guide to Sussex

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Sussex is made up of West Sussex which has a population of just over 750,000, and East Sussex which has a population of just under 500,000 according to the 2001 census. The population of East Sussex tends to be older, with people in the 50-54 age group being the largest. Many people choose this region as a retirement place, attracted by the generally slower pace of life, excluding Brighton, and the coastal resorts.

With it's south-east coast location, Sussex attracts many tourists to it's generally pebbled beaches, during the summer months. Bright buildings and pleasant open promenades give many of the coastal resorts a relaxed feel.

The coast is not the only attraction in Sussex. Ashdown Forest in the north of Sussex county, is an area of outstanding natural beauty with great views over the South Downs. If you are looking for a more historical side to Sussex then 1066 Country in the south of the county has plenty to offer.

Property values are generally higher in West Sussex and can match many other south-eastern counties of England. Chichester and especially Arundel are rather pleasant places to live, though don't expect to find many rental properties in Arundel. For those with a lower budget you will find cheaper property in parts of Bognor Regis and Worthing.

The prize possession of East Sussex has to be the brilliant Brighton, described by some as London by the see because of it's grand beautiful stucco buildings and Regency era town houses, many now converted to flats. Rental values and especially property prices have soared over the last few years, though that appears to have ended with a few months of price declines. Don't expect many bargains here with average property prices still over £200,000.

Further east on the coast you arrive at Eastbourne, slightly down market in comparison to the more exciting Brighton, with lower property values to be found, though many properties are bright and spacious. Hastings further to the east is notably run down with shabby buildings and cheaper housing to reflect that. Hastings is one of the poorest places on the south coast with higher unemployment and lower wages than average. Rental property here is much cheaper than in Brighton.