We did this move last year - big Scottish city to SE.
We have not regretted it and are very happy we moved.
Pros are -
Weather is sooouch better. Yes we had a few boiling hot days but generally speaking summer is much warmer, starts earlier in the year and finishes later. You don’t feel the pressure that you get in Scotland when it’s warm outside of ‘must go out and not waste the nice day’ as you know that tomorrow and the next day will be the same. Winter seems milder too. I lived in Scotland for decades and was just so sick of rain and shit weather especially in the summer when it was nice everywhere else.
Lots to do - we are near beaches, London, forests, little market towns, NT properties, lovely walks - we do something different every weekend. The city we live in is beautiful.
Schools - seem better. They seem to push kids harder with higher attainment standards and our kids are thriving.
In terms of cost we were in Edinburgh so haven’t found it much more expensive. But if you’re coming from anywhere else it’s likely you will find it far pricier.
Had no problem seeing doctor and DH was referred very quickly for health issue and seen at hospital within the month.
There are no NHS dentists down here to be found for adults so that’s a consideration.
Lots and lots of jobs so much more of an employee’s market.
We do miss the beautiful scenery of Scotland but come up to visit once or twice a year.
And not sure about your politics but not having to listen to Nicola bang on about independence and the constant uncertainty of another awful referendum is a plus for us. I’m no Tory voter but was so sick of this.
No doubt someone in Scotland will be along soon to pick apart everything I’ve said, this is Mumsnet after all! Not here to debate, just sharing my experiences.
Good luck!