The ECHO has taken a closer look at two Liverpool areas hailed in a new study as the best places to live in the city.
It comes as the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide, sponsored by Halifax, named Liverpool as the best place to live in the North West.
Judges praised the city's community spirit, the emerging creative sector, our growing reputation in science and tech and massive projects such as Everton's new stadium at Bramley Moore.
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However, it was the property that was described as a "big attraction". The judges said: "This is one great city where you can buy a house without breaking the bank - but you also get a lively city centre and beautiful beaches close at hand."
Toxteth and Waterloo were singled out by the Sunday Times as their "top districts" in Liverpool, but what makes them so great?
Waterloo: seaside, sunsets and independent shopping
Waterloo gives the best that Merseyside can offer - it's close to the beach, has plenty of amenities and great schools.
The area boasts a huge selection of independent bars, shops and restaurants. The area includes the bustling South Road, which has great access to the beach, along with the more refined St John's Road, which features a mix of delis, florists, salons and bistros.
According to Rightmove, average property prices in Waterloo over the last year have jumped by 16% to just over £260,000.
The total is a massive 36% higher than the 2019 peak of £191,699 and reflects the area's growing popularity.
In terms of homes, the area offers a lot - whether you're in the market for a flat with sea views, fancy a charming terraced flat or are looking at buying a huge Victorian manor, Waterloo has it all.
Toxteth: a cultural and community vibe
Toxteth has come a long way in shedding its outdated reputation attached to the unrest that took place in the area in the 1980s.
It's now a cultural melting pot where local residents and students mix. It has some of the city's best parks on its doorstep and is minutes away from the likes of Smithdown Road and the trendy Lark Lane, which are full to the brim of independent venues.
It also offers excellent links to the city centre.
Property prices here in the last 12 months have grown by 3% to £157,614, but the figure is 15% up on the 2020 peak of £137,066.
Flats in Toxteth fetch a whopping £162,134, while terraced homes sell for £145,807.
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