I work in Manchester, a guy that works here drives from the Lake district every day! Takes him about an hour down the M6. We also have guys who live in Glossop and Saddleworth both on the edge of the Peak district.
You could live outside Manchester if you can afford to commute. It's only just over 30 minutes to the Peak District national park
Whereabouts in Manchester? Any budget or other preferences (eg transport links, schools, parks...)?
It all depends on how much you want to pay for accommodation and general living expenses