I moved into Cardiff 15 years ago and have lived in a few places, but have now settled in Rhiwbina. Great public transport (bus and train) brilliant schools and lovely little main street with coffee shops and gift shops as well as spar and chemist.
It all depends on your budget and what you like in terms of house style, amenities. Cardiff is wonderful, I'm sure you'll love it, has all the things you'd expect from a Capital city but in a small easily-travelled area. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else now.

Rhiwbina and Llanishen are both lovely and have a villagey feel while only a short easy bus or train ride from the centre of Cardiff. Good mix of houses too. I love it here and great schools as well.

Penylan is lovely (but pricey), Heath and Whitchurch similar. Some parts of Llandaff north offer lovely semis and a Heath type environment for a fraction of the price. Depends if you want period features or newbuild and how far you want to commute.

Radyr is really lovely. Good primary & secondary schools. The houses in the main village are pricey, but if you don't mind newer houses, the new part of Radyr down by the station are much more affordable! There is also the bonus of being able to get a train into queen street or Cardiff central in about 12 minutes! We also enjoy being next to Radyr Woods and the Taff trail if you like getting out & about.

Let me know if you need anymore info!

I'm from South Wales but I've been away for a few years now. I've recently accepted a job in Cardiff city centre and I'm starting to think about where to live now. I would prefer to live in a leafy, suburban area and in a house rather than a flat. Could you recommend some pleasant, affordable, popular areas to consider?