Dreams of a seaside home may evoke images of pricey properties, but new research from property portal Rightmove reveals that coastal living is more accessible than you might think. More than 80% of the UK's seaside areas have an average asking price below £378,304, the national average.
The analysis highlights that the South East and South West of England continue to dominate the priciest seaside towns. Sandbanks in Dorset tops the list with a staggering £1.1 million average asking price – although this is lower than London's Kensington and Chelsea borough, where properties can fetch over £1.7 million. Notably, only two of the top ten most expensive seaside towns saw a year-on-year increase in asking prices: Canford Cliffs (4%) and Shoreham-by-Sea (also 4%).
For those on a budget, the North of England is the place to look, with five of the ten most affordable seaside locations identified in the research situated in the North West. Ayr in Scotland also makes an appearance on this list. Welsh towns are experiencing rapid house price growth – Penarth near Cardiff saw an 8% year-on-year increase – but Bootle in North West England takes the lead, with asking prices climbing by more than 10% over the past year.
This comprehensive breakdown provides valuable insights for potential homebuyers, showing that while some coastal areas remain exclusive, there are plenty of options to suit various budgets and lifestyle preferences. Proximity to national parks, local amenities, and transport links all play a significant role in determining an area's appeal and property value.