X-Border. I'm one of the Training and Ops Managers at Aberdeen. Either drop me an E mail or phone me at work and I'll put you in touch with some of the ex-mil guys who are already working here. Or better still, you are more than welcome to visit us and make up your own mind about what sort of place it is to live and work.
I know that I'm biased, but I like Aberdeen. Although we've got our problems, what Unit doesn't. The work is varied, as well as TWR & APR for Aberdeen we also do APR for Sumburgh and have 6 Offshore Radar and 1 Offshore Procedural sectors (although we are in the middle of resectorising). We have about 66 ATCOs and 17 ATSAs, presently working on a 3 Watch system but (hopefully) by early next year the ATCOs will be changing to 5 Watch. The guys and gals are a very sociable bunch and there's hardly a week goes by without some sort of event being organised.
As far a quality of life is concerned (and this is obviously a matter of personal preference), I can't think of anywhere to beat the place. Yes it's a bit cooler than the south of Englandshire, but the east coast of Scotland is generally dry and contrary to rumour we don't spend half of the year digging our way through the snow. The city is compact but has everything in it that you could want. Aberdeen has enjoyed a relatively stable economy and so doesn't suffer (to the same degree)some of the crime/violence problems of other cities. House prices vary greatly according to whereabouts you look but on average the're reasonable and in the country areas, some would say, downright cheap. The area in general is great, some stunning scenery, not too crowded and every out-door activity you can think of.
I'm on leave for a few days but if you phone (01224)727160 that will take you to the Watch Managers desk. Ask for me, if I'm not there leave you're number and I'll call you back.