Thinking about moving to start a family in East Sussex? You’re not alone. More and more families are swapping city stress for coastal calm and countryside charm. But with so many great towns across the region, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

At Van Dan Removals, we've helped hundreds of families relocate across Sussex over the years. Based in Hove, we're on the ground every day and get a front-row seat to the area's most popular family destinations. Whether you're looking for excellent schools, outdoor space, or a strong sense of community, this guide shares five of the best places for families to move in East Sussex in 2026.

Let’s explore what’s trending, what’s changed, and where families are finding the perfect place to call home.

What to Look for When Choosing a New Home

Raising a family involves more than just finding four walls and a roof. It’s about:

• School catchments

• Outdoor space and safety

• Affordable but future-proof housing

• A welcoming, supportive community

In East Sussex, we’ve seen some towns skyrocket in popularity over the past few years. Others are quietly becoming the new go-to spots as prices rise in traditional hotspots like Brighton and Hove.

Whether you’re moving for work, schools, or a lifestyle change, understanding where families are settling can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Top 5 Family-Friendly Places to Move in East Sussex in 2026

1. Lewes – Historic, Green, and Growing in Demand

Nestled in the South Downs, Lewes continues to top lists for families. Why?

• Excellent schools, including Southover and Priory School

• A real community feel, perfect for raising children

• Weekend access to countryside, riverside walks, and farmers markets

Over the past year, we've seen a sharp increase in family moves to Lewes from Brighton and even London. It's ideal for those wanting a cultural but calm lifestyle. Prices are on the higher end, but so is quality of life.

Pro Tip: Explore the Nevill and Wallands areas for more spacious, family-friendly homes.

2. Seaford – Coastal Calm Without the Chaos

Seaford has emerged as a rising star for families in 2026.

• Affordable housing compared to neighbouring towns

• Excellent secondary school: Seaford Head School

• Proximity to Seven Sisters, with beach and countryside on your doorstep

It’s a favourite for young families moving from Brighton or Hove who want space, safety, and value. Seaford’s town centre is improving too, with new cafes and indie shops popping up.

Fun Fact: We helped over 30 families move to Seaford in the past 18 months – most were seeking outdoor space and quieter roads.

3. Uckfield – Best for Space and Good Schooling

Uckfield is one of East Sussex's best-kept secrets. It offers:

• Large homes with gardens at lower prices than coastal towns

• Local schools like Uckfield College with good Ofsted ratings

• A developing high street and strong commuter rail links

Perfect for families needing a balance of space, community, and a feasible commute to Brighton, Tunbridge Wells or even London.

We’ve seen growing demand from parents who want more for their money and a less hectic pace of life.

4. Eastbourne – A Rejuvenated Family Favourite

While often associated with retirees, Eastbourne is undergoing a family-focused renaissance.

• Regeneration in the Old Town and seafront areas

• Wide choice of schools and nurseries

• Endless outdoor options: Beach, parks, marina, and South Downs

It’s also more affordable than Brighton and has better access to open spaces. Eastbourne’s reputation as a 'retirement town' is fading, with many young families moving in and reshaping its future.

Van Dan Note: We’ve been busy in Eastbourne lately – it’s one of our most requested locations for removals this year.

5. Hailsham – Affordable and Up-and-Coming

Hailsham might not have been on family radars a few years ago, but that’s changing fast.

• Growing number of new-build estates

• Close to larger hubs like Eastbourne and Lewes

• Good local primary schools, and community investment in youth facilities

Hailsham is ideal if you want a new home, solid schools, and a bit of breathing room in your budget. It’s becoming a smart move for young families planning long-term.

Common Questions from Families Looking to Move

Q: Where is the most affordable place to buy a family home in East Sussex right now?

A: Hailsham and Seaford currently offer the best value, especially for larger homes.

Q: Which areas have the best schools in East Sussex?

A: Lewes and Uckfield consistently perform well, but many towns have specific schools worth considering.

Q: Are coastal towns like Eastbourne and Seaford too touristy?

A: Not at all. Both towns have quiet, family-friendly neighbourhoods away from seasonal visitors.

Q: Can Van Dan help with packing?

A: Absolutely. You can find out more about our packing services here.

How Van Dan Removals Supports Families in East Sussex

As a local, family-run business, we know how much moving matters – especially when kids are involved. We specialise in:

• Full-service removals to and from East Sussex towns

• Packing and disassembly for family homes

• Flexible schedules for school holidays or weekend moves

• Eco-friendly, fully insured service with great reviews

We’ve helped families move into every town mentioned above. From Lewes to Seaford, Uckfield to Hailsham – we’ve done the heavy lifting.

Learn more about our removals in Brighton and Hove.

Moving Across the Country?

Whether you’re relocating from London, Manchester, or further afield, East Sussex is increasingly becoming a magnet for families seeking better work-life balance. Long-distance moves can feel daunting, but with the right support, they don't have to be.

We regularly help families settle in East Sussex from across the UK. Many are choosing to move to areas like Lewes, Eastbourne and Uckfield for more space, cleaner air, and quality schools.

Thinking About Moving to East Sussex?

From countryside calm to coastal air, East Sussex offers families a better quality of life – and 2026 is the perfect time to make a move.

If you’re planning a relocation, we’d love to help. We know the local landscape inside out and can guide you every step of the way.

Book your free moving quote with Van Dan today.