The cost of living in Scotland is generally considered moderate, with costs varying between urban and rural areas. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas offer a lower cost of living.

Scotland has a temperate maritime climate which is relatively mild despite its northerly latitude. Winters are generally cool, damp, and windy, with occasional snowfall, while summers are mild and often overcast. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, but the western highlands are one of the wettest places in Europe.

The educational system in Scotland is distinct from the rest of the United Kingdom, with its own qualifications framework and curriculum. Education in Scotland is overseen by the Scottish Government and is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The system is divided into two stages: primary education and secondary education. Primary education begins with Primary 1 (P1) for children aged 4 to 5 and continues to Primary 7 (P7), with children typically entering secondary education around the age of 12. Secondary education is provided at secondary schools and is divided into six years, S1 to S6. Students work towards National Qualifications, such as Nationals and Highers, which are crucial for university or college admission or entering the workforce. The Scottish education system is known for its broad curriculum, which includes a wide range of subjects and a focus on depth as well as breadth of knowledge. The system emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and the development of a wide range of skills. Scottish students graduate from secondary school with a range of qualifications, depending on their performance in their exams and the level of courses taken. The quality of education in Scotland is generally high, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all children.

The healthcare system in Scotland is primarily public and is known as the National Health Service (NHS) Scotland. It provides comprehensive healthcare to all permanent residents free at the point of delivery, funded by general taxation. The NHS covers a wide range of services, including general practitioner (GP) visits, hospital treatments, dental care, and some eye care services. Scotland is known for its strong primary care system and has a relatively high number of GPs per capita. There is also a private healthcare sector that operates alongside the NHS, offering services for those willing to pay out-of-pocket or through private health insurance. Private healthcare can provide faster access to certain treatments and a wider choice of providers. The quality of healthcare in Scotland is generally good, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and public health initiatives. However, like many healthcare systems, it faces challenges such as long waiting times for certain procedures and variations in service quality across regions. Expats and digital nomads who are legal residents in Scotland have access to NHS services. Those from the European Economic Area (EEA) or countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements may also be entitled to free NHS treatment. Others may need to ensure they have adequate health insurance or pay for private healthcare services.