City of Edinburgh spans about 261 km² (101 sq mi) in Scotland.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in City of Edinburgh
The City of Edinburgh is a county and council area in south east Scotland, set along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and shaped by its dramatic natural setting. The landscape includes volcanic hills, coastal areas and green spaces alongside densely built urban districts, giving the area a distinctive and often striking character. Its position as Scotland’s capital has long influenced its development, drawing together political, cultural and economic activity.
The area is centred on the city of Edinburgh itself, with surrounding neighbourhoods and districts forming a varied pattern of residential, commercial and civic spaces. The historic Old Town and the planned Georgian New Town sit side by side, reflecting different periods of growth and design. Beyond the city centre, communities support education, public services, tourism and a wide range of modern employment, contributing to a stable and diverse local economy.
The City of Edinburgh benefits from access to open space, including parks, coastal paths and nearby hills, which play an important role in everyday life. Walking, outdoor leisure and cultural activity are widely enjoyed throughout the year. Overall, the City of Edinburgh offers a steady mix of historic depth, urban life and natural setting, giving it a confident and well established character within Scotland.
City of Edinburgh at a Glance
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of City of Edinburgh?
City of Edinburgh has a population of about 514,073 people, at a density of 1,970 per square kilometre.
Largest Towns in City of Edinburgh 9
Location
Elevation & Terrain
City of Edinburgh stretches from 0 ft at Newhaven up to 709 ft at Torphin, a span of 709 ft across 94 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Main Towns in City of Edinburgh 48
City of Edinburgh has 94 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in City of Edinburgh.
Postcode Areas in City of Edinburgh 1
City of Edinburgh is served by 1 postcode area. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.