8 cheap cities to move to

If you’ve been thinking about moving and want to know where property prices may be cheaper than elsewhere, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve had a look at some of the UK’s most budget-friendly cities and towns, to give you an overview of the costs and attractions of each area.

Before we dive into some of the best towns and cities to move to, here’s a brief national overview of average property and rental prices. If you’re looking at buying a property, average asking prices currently are £367,994 while average UK rent is £1,271 per calendar month (pcm).*^ But there are significant variations around the UK, so let’s take a look.

The UK’s cheapest region in which to buy is the North East, closely followed by Scotland, and the cheapest place to rent is also the North East. Average asking prices in the North East are £190,124, and average rents are £665 pcm.*^

Now let's take a closer look at the property and rental figures in some of the UK's budget friendly areas

Leicester

Leicester, located in the heart of England, offers a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary living that appeals to both buyers and renters. The average price of properties sold here is £235,000, which is 1.7%** up from the previous year. Leicester has seen a rental growth of 4.6%, bringing average rents in this city to £933 pcm.^

This diverse city boasts a rich cultural heritage, including the fascinating King Richard III Visitor Centre, and excellent transport links with easy access to London and other major cities. Leicester is famous for its thriving food scene, particularly its curry houses and multicultural cuisine. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundant green spaces and parks throughout the city, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dundee is a hub of education and innovation, boasting a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. From its association with the video game industry to the nearby Angus Glens and Cairngorms National Park, Dundee offers a unique and enriching living experience. The city offers a blend of modern and historical living, Dundee's housing market caters to all tastes, with Victorian mansions, traditional apartments, and new developments.

Blackpool

The vibrant seaside town of Blackpool offers an average property price of £139,000, and the average rent here of £741 pcm is quite a bit lower than the North West region’s average of £1,062 pcm.**^

Renowned for its iconic tower, illuminations, and pleasure beach, Blackpool provides a lively living experience. With a strong sense of community and a variety of affordable properties, it's an attractive place for investors, first-time buyers, and those looking for a life beside the sea.

Cardiff

In the south-west of Wales, Cardiff's average property price is £273,000, with average rents at £964 pcm.**^ Both of these figures are higher than the regional average asking price of £355,316 and the average Welsh rent of £875 pcm.^*

As the capital city, Cardiff offers quick access to the seaside and is close to the scenic landscapes of the Brecon Beacons. It offers a mix of shopping, entertainment, and green spaces like Bute Park, making it an attractive option for families and students alike. With excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and a passion for sports, Cardiff is a vibrant and welcoming city to call home.

Renowned for its world-class ceramics industry, the city boasts attractions like the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and the Gladstone Pottery Museum, offering insights into its storied past. For those considering a move, Stoke-on-Trent presents an appealing blend of urban amenities and easy access to picturesque countryside, including the nearby Peak District National Park.

Coventry

As the UK's City of Culture for 2021, Coventry boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theatres, and art galleries. The average property price is £235,000, while average rents are £1,017 pcm.**^

With excellent transport links, including direct train services to London and Manchester, Coventry is ideal for commuters. The area also boasts a growing cultural scene, with theatres and music venues. For families, the city offers numerous parks, good schools, and family-friendly attractions

Known for its rich musical history and cultural scene, Liverpool offers a range of properties and is a thriving entertainment hub. From city centre flats to large houses in the suburbs, Liverpool is a compelling choice of city for many.

County Durham

Finally, Durham, nestled in the heart of North East England, offers a captivating blend of rich history and natural beauty. Here, the average property price is £139,000**, below the North East average asking price of £190,124.* Average rents here are £877 pcm, which is well below the UK’s average of £1,284 pcm, however, above the North East average rent of £665 pcm.^

For those seeking a new home, County Durham presents an attractive proposition with its mix of urban and rural living options. It provides a charming alternative to city life, while benefiting from good transport links, with easy access to major cities like Newcastle and York.

Whether it's the seaside charm of Blackpool, the cultural buzz of Leicester, or the historic allure of Durham, there are plenty of beautiful locations in the UK you can call home. Each city or town offers a unique blend of property prices, rental options, and lifestyle opportunities. There's a home waiting in England, Wales or Scotland that suits every preference and budget.