15 Cheapest Places to Live in the UK (2025) | Low Cost of Living Cities & Towns
Where is the Cheapest Place to Live in the UK?
What Exactly Are Our Options, and Could It Be Affordable?
The UK offers a wide range of cities and towns, each with its own cultural life…
The UK offers a wide range of cities and towns, each with its own cultural life. While some UK cities are known for their beauty, they are equally famous for their high cost of living. If you’re looking for somewhere that doesn’t break the bank while still enjoying a quality lifestyle, the UK has many budget-friendly cities that offer great value for money.
There are many factors that determine how cheap or expensive a city is, including living expenses, housing costs, daily expenses, and other associated costs.
One of the most important factors in determining property value is the cost of housing. Larger cities or tourist destinations tend to have higher property prices.
Here, we’ll explore some of the cheapest places to live in the UK, providing insights into housing costs, the cost of living, and more.
Where Are Some Nice but Affordable Areas in the UK?
If you’re looking for places in the UK that strike a balance between being budget-friendly and genuinely nice to live in, you’re not alone. Many people — from first-time buyers to remote workers and young families — are heading to towns and small cities where life is more relaxed, the bills are lighter, and the quality of life still feels rich. Let us try to find out the names of those cities in this guide.
The Cheapest Places to Live in the UK
Here’s a list of the 15 cheapest — and most pleasant — places to live in the UK, with everything from cost of living to average house prices.
1. Glasgow, Scotland
A lively and culturally rich city, Glasgow is packed with personality. From world-class museums and galleries to its thriving music scene and bustling food markets, there’s always something happening here. Despite being Scotland’s largest city, the cost of living remains surprisingly low. It also offers excellent public transport, green parks like Kelvingrove, and a down-to-earth community spirit that makes everyone feel at home.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £140,000 – £170,000
2. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast blends old-world charm with a modern pulse. As the capital of Northern Ireland, it offers the convenience of city life without the sky-high prices. The historic Titanic Quarter, emerging tech scene, and stunning coastline just a short drive away make it an attractive spot for both families and young professionals.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £160,000 – £180,000
3. Sunderland, Tyne and Wear
Nestled along the North Sea, Sunderland offers coastal beauty at a fraction of the price you’d expect. The city is known for its friendly locals, decent job market, and access to some of the best beaches in the North East. With property prices among the lowest in England, it’s a fantastic option for first-time buyers and young families.
Cost of Living: Very Low
Average House Price: £130,000 – £150,000
4. Hull, East Yorkshire
Hull has undergone a serious transformation over the past decade, reinventing itself with cultural projects, renovated museums, and a vibrant waterfront. This city is perfect for those seeking affordability without giving up on urban life. Housing is extremely reasonable, and the strong sense of community is a major draw.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £120,000 – £140,000
5. Durham, North East England
With its majestic cathedral, cobbled streets, and peaceful riverside, Durham feels like a medieval postcard brought to life. It’s small, scenic, and safe — ideal for students, retirees, and anyone who prefers a slower pace. Despite its historic prestige, it remains surprisingly affordable.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £160,000 – £180,000
6. Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
Once known as the heart of the pottery industry, Stoke-on-Trent still offers excellent value for money. It’s centrally located with good road and rail connections, and you’ll find green spaces, family parks, and plenty of local history. It’s an affordable and practical choice for commuters and families alike.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £140,000 – £160,000
7. Wrexham, Wales
Wrexham is fast becoming one of the most talked-about towns in Wales, thanks in part to its growing visibility and strong community feel. It offers a unique blend of urban energy and countryside calm, making it ideal for those who want access to nature without leaving behind modern amenities.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £150,000 – £170,000
8. Blackpool, Lancashire
Best known for its seaside charm and iconic tower, Blackpool offers more than just arcades and beach huts. It’s incredibly affordable, has a vibrant creative community, and a surprising number of regeneration projects underway. If you’re looking for coastal living on a tight budget, this could be the place.
Cost of Living: Very Low
Average House Price: £110,000 – £130,000
9. Barnsley, South Yorkshire
Barnsley is a rising star in the Yorkshire region. With access to stunning countryside, a strong local culture, and great transport links to Leeds and Sheffield, it’s a solid choice for families or those looking to settle somewhere peaceful and affordable.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £140,000 – £160,000
10. Nottingham, East Midlands
Nottingham is a dynamic and youthful city, known for its universities, creative industries, and strong transport system. It’s more affordable than many cities further south, yet still offers everything from great nightlife to quiet parks. A great option for students, startups, or young couples.
Cost of Living: Moderate to Low
Average House Price: £180,000 – £200,000
11. Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Middlesbrough might not be the first place that comes to mind, but it’s actually one of the most budget-friendly towns in the UK. It offers proximity to nature with the North York Moors nearby and a cost of living that allows for comfortable, low-stress living.
Cost of Living: Very Low
Average House Price: £110,000 – £130,000
12. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Doncaster is strategically located with fantastic rail links — you can reach London in under two hours. It boasts good schools, solid healthcare, and large family homes at prices well below the national average. A great blend of affordability and connectivity.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £140,000 – £160,000
13. Bradford, West Yorkshire
Bradford is known for its multicultural identity, rich food scene, and access to the Yorkshire Dales. It’s a big city with small-town prices, making it perfect for families, remote workers, or anyone wanting more house for their money.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £150,000 – £170,000
14. Preston, Lancashire
Preston offers the best of both worlds — it’s a university town with a laid-back vibe, and it’s just a short train ride from Manchester or Liverpool. Affordable homes, scenic countryside, and a solid local economy make it one of the North West’s most appealing locations.
Cost of Living: Moderate to Low
Average House Price: £160,000 – £180,000
15. Derby, Derbyshire
Derby is a centrally located city with a growing tech and manufacturing base, offering excellent job prospects. It’s calm, green, and one of the most affordable places to own a home in a city setting. Ideal for both professionals and families.
Cost of Living: Low
Average House Price: £160,000 – £190,000
Know About Price-to-Earnings Ratio
When we talk about the cheapest places to live, we’re not just referring to low house prices or cheap rent — what really matters is how well your income covers your daily living expenses. This is known as the income-to-cost ratio, and it plays a huge role in your quality of life.
In simple terms, the income ratio compares the average household income to the cost of living (housing, food, transport, utilities, etc.). The higher the ratio, the more comfortably people can live — meaning there’s more money left over after essential expenses.
Location | Average Annual Income | Average House Price | Price-to-Income Ratio | Affordability Level |
Glasgow | ~£28,000–£32,000 | £140,000 – £170,000 | 4.8–5.3× income | Good |
Sunderland | ~£26,000–£29,000 | £130,000 – £150,000 | 4.6–5.2× income | Very Good |
Hull | ~£25,000–£28,000 | £120,000 – £140,000 | 4.3–5.0× income | Excellent |
Middlesbrough | ~£24,000–£27,000 | £110,000 – £130,000 | 4.1–4.8× income | Excellent |
Nottingham | ~£30,000–£34,000 | £180,000 – £200,000 | 5.2–6.0× income | Moderate |
Derby | ~£29,000–£33,000 | £160,000 – £190,000 | 4.8–5.5× income | Good |
Choosing an affordable place to live is about more than saving money — it’s about getting more life out of your income. The cheaper towns and cities listed in this blog offer a sweet spot: livable wages, low house prices, and a balanced lifestyle.
Tips for Finding the Right City to Live in the UK
1. Consider your budget first
Before you fall in love with a city, get clear about your budget — including rent or mortgage, bills, groceries, transportation, and leisure. Some cities may have cheaper housing but higher daily expenses, so look at the big picture.
2. Think about job opportunities
Even if you work remotely, local job prospects are still important for the future. Research which cities have growing industries or strong employment rates to keep your options open.
3. Explore before you decide
If possible, spend a few days or weekends in potential cities. Walk around different neighborhoods, check out local shops and transportation links, and chat with locals to get a feel for the place.
4. Check transportation and connections
Good public transportation or easy road connections can save you time and money. Cities with good train or bus connections make commuting easier and can connect you to a larger job market.
5. Research safety and community
Look at crime rates as well as community spirit. Sometimes a neighborhood with active community groups, local events, and friendly residents can make a big difference in your happiness.