Locals

Southampton isn’t just a destination for visitors – it’s a city full of opportunities, experiences and community life for those who live, work and study here. Whether you're a long-time resident, a student just settling in, or someone who commutes in each day for work, the city offers plenty to enjoy and take pride in. From everyday essentials to new discoveries, Southampton has something for everyone who calls it home.

Special offers

From discounts at high-street shops to hidden perks at independent venues, being a local comes with plenty of advantages. Visit our Special Offers page to browse the latest deals available. It’s a great way to support Southampton businesses while enjoying some well-deserved savings.

Studying in Southampton

Whether you're attending the University of Southampton or Southampton Solent University, being a student here means more than just lectures and assignments. Southampton is a student-friendly city, with plenty to do, see and experience between classes.

Take advantage of student discounts across the city, from affordable lunches and discounted cinema tickets to public transport savings and study-friendly cafes. With two major universities and a large student population, many local businesses cater specifically to your needs.

Explore local nightlife in Bedford Place or Portswood, find quiet study corners in city centre libraries, or join student-only events that help you connect with your new home. There are also part-time job opportunities, volunteering projects and student societies that let you get involved with the community.

Working in Southampton

If you live or commute into Southampton for work, there are many ways to make your working week more enjoyable in the city.

Take advantage of lunch break deals, after-five entertainment spots and networking events to connect with other working professionals in Southampton. With excellent transport connections and new developments emerging across the city, Southampton is constantly evolving as a place to build your career.

Use our listings and updates to discover coworking spaces, business events, local networking groups and places to unwind after a busy day. Southampton is not just where you work – it’s where you can thrive.

If you are looking for you are looking to take the next step in your career or want to explore new opportunities, click here to access GO! Southampton’s jobs board which highlights roles based in the heart of the city.

Your Southampton

Your Southampton is your dedicated platform for local news, stories, inspiration and events. Designed for residents, workers and students, it offers a snapshot of what’s happening across the city.

From hidden gems to spotlight features on your favourite local businesses, Your Southampton keeps you connected to the people and places that shape your city. Follow updates on Facebook and Instagram for interviews with local changemakers, and keep up to date with events tailored for the community.

Get involved

Want to play a bigger part in local life? Southampton offers countless ways to get involved. From volunteering and community gardening to joining local boards and committees, there are many ways to help shape the city’s future.

You can also attend city consultations, take part in clean-up days or explore membership schemes for libraries, gyms, and cultural venues. For students and workers alike, this is a chance to give back and create real impact.

Getting involved not only benefits your community but also helps you connect with people, build skills and develop a deeper sense of belonging.

Here are some great places to start your search:

  • Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS): Offers hundreds of roles with local charities and community groups.

  • Southampton City Council: Lists volunteering roles at museums, parks, libraries and more, with links to the national Do-it database.

  • SO:Linked: Use their community navigation tool and searchable directory to find volunteering opportunities by location and interest.

  • Get Volunteering: A directory covering Southampton and Hampshire, filtered by your preferences.

  • Age UK Southampton: Get involved by supporting older residents through a variety of volunteer roles.

  • No Limits: Offers volunteer roles working with children and young people.

  • Restless: Regularly updated listings of local volunteer opportunities.