10 Best Places to Live in the UK in 2025

1. North Berwick, East Lothian (Scotland)

North Berwick is a picturesque seaside town on the Scotland east coast, just a short train ride from Edinburgh. Praised in the 2024 Sunday Times guide as the best place to live in the UK, this charming town offers golden beaches, bustling high streets, and plenty of outdoor adventures.

Housing and Cost of Living: With an average property price around £515,500, homes here are in high demand. Many residents enjoy a high quality of life while still being able to commute to Edinburgh, making it ideal for both families and professionals.

Community and Lifestyle: Known for its strong community spirit, excellent schools, and low crime rates, North Berwick is perfect for families and retirees alike. It offers a relaxed coastal vibe while still providing access to city amenities.

2. Abergavenny, Monmouthshire (Wales)

Often called the Gateway to Wales, Abergavenny is a historic market town near the Brecon Beacons. Renowned for its scenic beauty, weekly markets, and popular food festival, it was named the best place to live in Wales in 2024.

Housing and Affordability: With property prices in the mid-£300,000s, Abergavenny offers excellent value for money while delivering a superb quality of life.

Job Market and Transport: The town benefits from tourism, agriculture, and local businesses. Good transport links via train allow residents to commute to larger cities like Cardiff or Bristol.

3. Portstewart, County Londonderry (Northern Ireland)

Portstewart is a beautiful seaside town known for its long sandy beach and proximity to the Giants Causeway. Recently crowned the best place to live in Northern Ireland in the Sunday Times guide, it offers stunning ocean views and a laid-back lifestyle.

Housing and Cost of Living: With an average property price around £248,500, Portstewart is one of the more affordable seaside gems in the UK.

Community and Lifestyle: Popular with retirees and families alike, the town offers excellent schools, low crime rates, and a friendly community atmosphere.

4. Stockport, Greater Manchester (England – North West)

Just south of Manchester, Stockport has transformed from an industrial town into a vibrant hub with excellent transport links, a buzzing town centre, and attractive housing options.

Housing and Affordability: Residents enjoy a mix of Victorian terraces and spacious suburban homes at prices around the UK average—making Stockport an attractive option for families and young professionals.

Job Market and Transport: With direct trains into Manchester and easy motorway access, Stockport offers convenient commuting options along with a growing local job market.

5. Leeds, West Yorkshire (England – North & North East)

Leeds, one of the largest cities in England, is a dynamic centre for finance, culture, and education. Awarded the best place to live in the North in 2024, it offers a balanced mix of urban amenities and suburban comfort.

Economy and Job Opportunities: With a thriving finance and tech sector, Leeds consistently ranks high for job opportunities and competitive salaries.

Housing and Lifestyle: Offering everything from city centre apartments to family homes in leafy suburbs, Leeds remains affordable compared to London while still delivering a bustling urban life.

6. Wivenhoe, Essex (England – East of England)

This small riverside town in Essex is known for its artistic community and quaint streets. Recently named the best place to live in the East of England, Wivenhoe offers a charming mix of history and modern convenience.

Housing and Cost of Living: From historic cottages to modern family homes, Wivenhoe offers a range of properties that are more affordable than many London boroughs.

Community and Lifestyle: With a vibrant local arts scene and excellent transport links to Colchester and London, it is ideal for families, creatives, and retirees.

7. Stirchley, Birmingham (England – West Midlands)

Stirchley is a revitalized district in south Birmingham, now one of the citys trendiest neighbourhoods. Recognized as the best place to live in the Midlands for 2024, it perfectly blends affordable, historic housing with modern urban amenities.

Housing and Affordability: The area offers renovated Victorian terraces and budget-friendly options—attracting young families and first-time buyers.

Lifestyle and Connectivity: With a growing café culture, craft breweries, and convenient train links into central Birmingham, Stirchley provides a unique mix of city energy and suburban charm.

8. Sherborne, Dorset (England – South West)

Sherborne is a historic market town known for its medieval architecture and elegant character. Voted the best place to live in the South West in 2024, it offers a genteel lifestyle set against the backdrop of the Dorset countryside.

Housing and Cost of Living: Although property here tends to be on the higher side, with many period properties and charming Georgian townhouses, the quality of life and community spirit make it worthwhile.

Amenities and Community: With excellent schools, boutique shops, and a thriving cultural scene, Sherborne is particularly popular with retirees and families.

9. Folkestone, Kent (England – South East)

Once a fading port town, Folkestone has undergone a dramatic regeneration into a vibrant, artsy seaside destination. Topped as the best place to live in the South East in 2024, it offers the best of coastal living combined with urban convenience.

Housing and Cost of Living: Folkestones housing market features Victorian townhouses and modern apartments. With convenient High Speed 1 links to London, it provides good value for families and young professionals.

Community and Lifestyle: The towns creative quarters, lively harbour, and active cultural festivals make it an attractive destination for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

10. Clerkenwell, London (England – London Region)

In the heart of London, Clerkenwell blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. Known for its creative industries, trendy restaurants, and cultural attractions, Clerkenwell was named the best place to live in London for 2024.

Housing and Cost of Living: While property prices are at a premium in this central area, the mix of chic lofts, converted warehouses, and period properties makes it an iconic urban setting.

Lifestyle and Community: Perfect for young professionals and creatives, Clerkenwell offers world-class dining, easy access to transport links, and a lively cultural scene that captures the essence of London.

Conclusion

From the seaside charm of North Berwick to the urban buzz of Clerkenwell, the UK offers a diverse array of places to call home. Whether you are looking for the best places to live in the UK for families, professionals, or over 60s, this guide shows that there is something for everyone in 2024. As you consider your options, think about your personal priorities—whether that is affordability, job opportunities, amenities, or community spirit. The perfect place to live is the one that suits your lifestyle best.

With up-to-date rankings and a variety of options from bustling UK cities to peaceful countryside retreats, our list is designed to inspire your next move. Happy house-hunting!