Discover the Best Places to Live in the UK for 2026: Our Top Picks
- comedyinyoureye
- 3 hours ago
- 13 min read
Thinking about a move and wondering where the best places to live in the UK might be for 2026? It's a big question, and honestly, totally understandable. Where you live really shapes your day-to-day life, much more than a new sofa or a lick of paint ever could. We've looked at things like safety, how happy people are, how much things cost, and what opportunities are around. So, we've put together a list of some top spots that might just tick your boxes.
Key Takeaways
Aberdeen offers a great quality of life with affordable housing and new job prospects in clean energy.
York combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering good safety and healthcare, with London accessible by fast train.
Sheffield is a green city with access to the Peak District, scoring well for families in healthcare, safety, and affordability.
Derby is a practical, affordable city with a strong quality of life, good climate, and job opportunities in engineering and aerospace.
Newcastle upon Tyne balances affordability with a good quality of life, featuring strong safety and healthcare scores, plus a lively culture.
1. Aberdeen
Aberdeen, often called the 'Granite City' for its striking stone buildings, is a real gem on Scotland's northeast coast. It manages to blend a high quality of life with some surprisingly affordable housing, which is a big win these days. The city scores well for safety and has a generally pleasant climate, thanks to those refreshing North Sea breezes.
It's not just about the scenery and the calm atmosphere, though. Aberdeen is also becoming a hub for clean energy, with Great British Energy setting up its headquarters there. This means new jobs and a bit of a buzz around town, which is always good for a place.
Here's a quick look at why Aberdeen stands out:
Affordable Housing: You can find average house prices that are much lower than many other UK cities.
Quality of Life: It consistently ranks highly for safety and general well-being.
Economic Opportunities: The growing clean energy sector is bringing new prospects.
Natural Beauty: Close to stunning coastlines and countryside for weekend adventures.
Living in Aberdeen means you get a bit of everything – a solid place to live that doesn't break the bank, with a good dose of natural beauty and a forward-looking economy. It feels like a city that's got its feet on the ground but is also looking towards the future.
2. York
York is a city that really does seem to have it all. It scores highly on the quality of life index, sitting at a respectable 203.4. This is thanks to a combination of factors, including a really good safety record – one of the best you'll find in England, actually – and top-notch healthcare services.
When it comes to property, the average price is around £305,000. Now, that might sound a bit steep if you're comparing it to other places further north, but it's still a good deal less than what you'd expect to pay in the commuter belt areas down south. Plus, the fast train links are a real bonus. You can get to London in under two hours, which means you don't have to sacrifice career opportunities just because you prefer living somewhere with a bit of history.
Here's a quick look at some key points:
Excellent safety ratings contribute to a feeling of security.
First-class healthcare facilities are readily available.
Fast rail connections offer easy access to London and beyond.
Medieval charm is preserved alongside modern amenities.
Living in York means you get that lovely historical atmosphere, with its ancient walls and winding streets, but without having to compromise on modern conveniences or access to jobs. It strikes a good balance, really.
3. Sheffield
Sheffield, often called the 'Steel City', is a place that really mixes it up. It's got this amazing green side to it, with a good chunk of the city actually sitting within the Peak District National Park. This means you can be out for a hike on the moors pretty much straight after work, which is pretty cool if you ask me.
It seems like a solid choice for families too. People reckon it scores well on things like healthcare, how safe it feels, and importantly, how much things cost. The average house price is around £222,000, which feels more manageable than some other places. Plus, the weather here is apparently quite decent compared to other spots on the list.
Sheffield offers a blend of urban convenience and easy access to nature. It's a city that doesn't shy away from its industrial past but has clearly moved forward, embracing its green spaces and a good quality of life for its residents.
Here's a quick look at some key points:
Green Spaces: Direct access to the Peak District National Park.
Family Friendly: High scores for healthcare, safety, and affordability.
Cost of Living: Average house price around £222,000.
Climate: Generally favourable weather conditions.
It's one of those cities that feels like it's got a bit of everything going on, without being completely overwhelming. You get the benefits of city living but with nature right on your doorstep. It's a place that feels both practical and pretty inspiring.
4. Derby
Derby might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of the UK's top cities, but it's definitely worth a closer look, especially if you're thinking about where to put down roots or invest. The city's really been pulling out all the stops lately with a massive regeneration push. We're talking about big plans for industry, culture, and housing all happening at once.
It feels like Derby is really trying to make a name for itself in 2026, and honestly, it’s working.
Here's a bit of what's going on:
Infinity Park Derby: This place is all about advanced manufacturing and tech. They've added a huge new warehouse and office space, which is bringing in new businesses and, importantly, jobs for skilled people. This, in turn, means more demand for places to live.
Cultural Heart of the City: The Cathedral Quarter is getting a serious makeover. Think new spots for leisure, community events, and shops. Plus, there's a new arena, Vaillant Live, which will host concerts and sports – that's bound to bring more visitors and boost the local rental market.
Education Boost: The University of Derby is expanding, with a new Business School as part of a big investment. This means more students and staff looking for accommodation, which is always good news for property owners.
Better Transport: There's a £2 billion investment in the Trent Arc corridor, improving links between Derby and Nottingham. Better transport makes a city more accessible and attractive.
When it comes to property, Derby has been showing some solid growth. The average property price has been climbing, and certain areas are offering pretty decent rental yields, some even hitting over 6%. It’s not quite London prices, which is a plus for many.
Derby seems to be hitting a sweet spot right now. It's got the big city regeneration plans and the economic drivers like new jobs and students, but it still feels more down-to-earth and affordable compared to some of the bigger hubs. The focus on improving infrastructure and creating new cultural and business spaces is really paying off.
So, if you're looking for a place with a bit of buzz, ongoing development, and a good chance of seeing your property value grow, Derby is definitely one to consider for 2026.
5. Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne is really making a name for itself, especially if you're thinking about property. It's seen some serious growth over the last decade, with prices going up by more than 36%. And the rental yields? They're pretty impressive too, often hitting around 9% in areas like NE1, which is way above the UK average.
There's a lot going on in terms of development, too. Big projects like Forth Yards are adding loads of new homes and business spaces, and they're even sprucing up the historic Grainger Market. Plus, with improvements to transport links like the Northern Powerhouse Rail, getting around and connecting with other northern cities is getting easier. It feels like a city that's really moving forward.
Here's a quick look at some of the numbers:
Metric | Value |
|---|---|
Average Property Price (May 2025) | £205,197 |
Predicted Growth (2025-2028) | 13.86% |
Top Rental Yield (NE1) | 9.00% |
With ongoing regeneration and a strong property market, Newcastle is shaping up to be a solid choice for investment and living in 2026. The combination of rising property values and good rental income potential makes it stand out.
6. Edinburgh
Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is a city that really does have a bit of everything. It's consistently ranked well for safety and has some really solid public services, which is always a big plus when you're thinking about where to settle down. Plus, the scenery is just stunning – you've got Arthur's Seat right there, and the Pentland Hills aren't far off for a weekend walk.
Property prices here average around £288,000. Now, that might sound like a lot, but when you compare it to what you'd likely pay in many parts of southern England, it's actually quite reasonable. The city's famous festivals, like the Fringe, are a massive part of its identity and economy. They bring in loads of visitors and create jobs, keeping the place buzzing with culture all year round.
Here's a quick look at what makes Edinburgh stand out:
Historic Charm: From the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, the city is steeped in history and offers a unique atmosphere.
Green Spaces: Despite being a capital city, Edinburgh has plenty of parks and natural areas, offering a great escape.
Cultural Hub: The world-renowned festivals ensure there's always something happening, from comedy to theatre and music.
Strong Public Services: High ratings for healthcare and safety contribute to a good quality of life.
Edinburgh manages to blend its rich historical past with a forward-thinking approach to city living. It offers a high standard of life without the eye-watering price tag you might expect from a capital city of its stature.
It's a place that feels both grand and accessible, making it a top contender for anyone looking for a vibrant and secure place to call home.
7. Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes is a bit of a modern marvel, really. It's one of those places that's been built with the future in mind, and you can sort of feel that. It consistently scores well for quality of life, which is always a good sign, isn't it? Plus, it boasts the best climate score on our list – imagine that, decent weather more often than not!
It's a commuter's dream, with trains to London taking a mere 35 minutes. This makes it a really practical choice if you need to be in the capital for work but don't fancy paying London prices for your home. Speaking of which, the average house price sits around £343,000, which, compared to many other places within easy reach of London, feels pretty reasonable. It's no wonder the population has been growing so much lately; people are clearly seeing the appeal.
What's also interesting about Milton Keynes is its reputation for being a cool place. It's been recognised for its vibrant art scene, which adds a bit of cultural spice to the modern architecture. It’s not just concrete and roundabouts, you know!
Here's a quick look at what makes it stand out:
Excellent Transport Links: Speedy trains to London and good road connections.
Green Spaces: Despite being a modern city, it has plenty of parks and natural areas.
Modern Amenities: Designed for convenience with shopping centres and entertainment.
Growing Art Scene: Increasingly recognised for its cultural contributions, making it one of the coolest towns [e5ea].
Milton Keynes offers a unique blend of modern planning and a surprisingly good quality of life. It's a city that's still growing and evolving, attracting people who want convenience without sacrificing too much on affordability or lifestyle. It’s a solid option for those looking for a forward-thinking place to settle down.
8. Liverpool
Liverpool is really making a name for itself, and it's easy to see why it's on so many 'best places to live' lists for 2026. The city's seen a massive amount of regeneration, with big projects changing the landscape and bringing in new investment. Think of the Lighthaus development, a tall building with loads of new homes, or the Central Park at Liverpool Waters, a big green space planned for the docks. It feels like there's a real buzz about the place.
The city is attracting a lot of attention for property investment, with strong rental yields and ongoing growth.
Here's a quick look at some of the numbers:
Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
Average House Price | £179,642 |
Average Monthly Rent | £1,047 |
Average Rental Yield | 5.59% |
It's not just about the new builds, though. Liverpool has a rich history and a vibrant culture that draws people in. Plus, with a large student population and a growing tech and life sciences sector in the Knowledge Quarter, there's a steady demand for housing. It’s a city that seems to be balancing its heritage with a forward-thinking approach, which is a pretty good mix for anyone looking to settle down or invest. The regeneration around the new Everton FC stadium is also breathing new life into surrounding areas, creating more opportunities.
Liverpool's economic growth is supported by initiatives like the City Region Freeport, aiming to attract trade and create jobs. This, combined with major developments, paints a picture of a city on the up.
It’s definitely a place worth considering if you're looking for a dynamic city with a strong sense of community and plenty of potential. You can find out more about the latest property market research here.
9. Reading
Reading is a bit of a powerhouse, especially if you're in the tech world. It’s got a really strong economy and some of the best digital infrastructure you'll find anywhere outside of London. People seem to rate the quality of life here pretty highly, which is great. Now, the downside, if you can call it that, is that house prices are a bit higher, averaging around £348,000. But honestly, that kind of reflects the solid job market and the fact that it's so close to the capital. It's also become a bit of a hub for AI companies – we're talking over 170 of them – so if you're looking for opportunities in that field, it's definitely a place to consider.
This town is a serious contender for tech professionals looking for career growth and a good lifestyle.
Here's a quick look at what makes Reading stand out:
Job Market: Particularly strong in tech and digital sectors, with many AI companies setting up shop.
Connectivity: Excellent transport links, especially for commuting into London.
Quality of Life: Generally scores well, offering a good balance for residents.
Surrounding Areas: Close to beautiful countryside and charming villages like Twyford, which has been recognised as one of the nation's most desirable locations.
While the cost of living might be a bit higher than in some other places on our list, the opportunities and the general vibe of Reading make it a compelling choice for many. It’s a place that feels busy and forward-thinking, but still manages to offer a decent quality of life.
If you're thinking about investing in property here, it's worth looking into different strategies to make sure you get the best return. The demand is certainly there, driven by the strong economy and its appeal to professionals.
10. Glasgow
Glasgow is a city that really has a lot going for it, blending a vibrant cultural scene with a surprisingly affordable cost of living. It's Scotland's largest city and consistently pops up on lists for good places to live, and for 2026, it's no different. The property market here has seen some solid growth over the last decade, and there's a lot of regeneration happening, which is always a good sign for a city's future.
When you look at the numbers, Glasgow stacks up pretty well. The average house price is around £186,000, which is quite reasonable when you compare it to other major UK cities. Plus, the rental yields are pretty decent, often sitting around the 6-7% mark, making it an attractive spot for anyone thinking about property investment.
Here's a quick look at some of the property market figures:
Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
Average House Price | £186,000 |
Average Rental Yield | ~6.46% |
Predicted Growth | 6-8% (2025-26) |
There are some big regeneration projects underway, like Clyde Gateway, which is transforming areas along the River Clyde with new homes, businesses, and green spaces. Projects like Collegelands Park are adding much-needed student and residential accommodation, and the redevelopment of places like Shawlands Arcade is breathing new life into neighbourhoods. These developments aren't just about buildings; they're about creating communities and boosting the local economy.
Glasgow offers a great mix of culture, history, and modern development. It's a city that feels alive, with a strong sense of identity and a friendly atmosphere. The universities here are top-notch, and the arts scene is really something special, from the music venues to the galleries.
It's a city that seems to have a good balance – you get the buzz of a major urban centre, but it doesn't feel as overwhelming or expensive as some others. For students, young professionals, or families, Glasgow offers a lot to like.
So, Where Will You Call Home?
Right then, we've looked at quite a few places, haven't we? From the bustling streets of Manchester to the quieter charm of places like York, it's clear the UK has a lot to offer. Finding that perfect spot isn't a one-size-fits-all deal, though. It really comes down to what you're after – maybe it's a good school for the kids, a shorter commute, or just a place where you feel like you belong. We hope this list has given you some food for thought, whether you're packing your bags already or just thinking about making your current place feel a bit more like home. Remember, sometimes a few small changes can make a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a place a good place to live in the UK?
A good place to live usually has a mix of things that are important to you. This could be things like being safe, having good schools for kids, places to go out and have fun, and not costing too much to live there. It's also about feeling happy and connected to the people around you.
How did you choose these places for 2026?
We looked at several important factors that people often care about when moving. These include how safe an area is, how happy people are living there, the cost of living, how likely the area is to grow in the future, and the availability of things like schools and entertainment.
Are these places expensive to live in?
The cost of living can vary a lot. Some places on our list are known for being more affordable, with lower average house prices. Others might be a bit pricier but offer a higher quality of life or better job opportunities that balance out the cost.
What about job opportunities in these cities?
Many of these cities are seeing growth in different industries, like technology, clean energy, and engineering. They also have universities which bring in students and create jobs. Regeneration projects are also happening in some places, which means new jobs and opportunities are appearing.
Is it easy to get around in these places?
Most of the places we've picked have good transport links. This includes fast train services to major cities like London, and good public transport within the city itself. Some also have great access to beautiful natural areas for outdoor activities.
Can I find a place that suits my family's needs?
Yes, many of these locations are highlighted as being great for families. They often have good schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. We've tried to include a mix of cities that offer different benefits to suit various family needs.