Manchester and its surrounding northern counties are experiencing a significant surge in property market activity, driven by robust economic growth and increased political focus on the region. Manchester’s economy is growing at an annual rate of 3.1 percent, more than twice the national average, positioning the city as one of the fastest-expanding urban centers in the United Kingdom.
This economic expansion coincides with increased national attention given to the North under Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s leadership, especially through the establishment of the No10 North civil service hub. The initiative aims to decentralize government functions, bringing jobs and investment to Manchester and stimulating further demand in the local property market.
Recent data from Rightmove underscores this trend, showing a 1.5 percent rise in asking prices across northern England in August, contrasting with a 1.8 percent decline in the South. This shift highlights the North’s growing appeal, combining affordability, community character, and strong investment potential.
Wigan has emerged as a particularly attractive location, named last year as the best place to live in the UK based on factors including cost of living, crime rates, healthcare access, and air quality. Despite its industrial past, Wigan boasts considerable green space and an average home price of approximately £194,000 as of May. Properties such as four-bedroom detached homes in the Billinge area offer family-friendly options.
Old Trafford, a suburb of Manchester, is also gaining momentum. Experts attribute this to the increased economic activity anticipated from the No10 North project. The local market predominantly features terraced homes and apartments, with average terraced property prices around £292,458. The area remains attractive for buyers seeking proximity to the city with diverse housing types.
Rochdale is recognized for its affordability and ongoing regeneration efforts, with over £400 million invested in the town center. Projects include the Rochdale Riverside retail and leisure development and the Upperbanks scheme, which has added new homes and a hotel to the area. This town combines economic opportunity with access to outdoor activities such as those at Hollingworth Lake Country Park.
Preston, located within commuting distance of Manchester, offers additional value, with average house prices starting at approximately £195,000. The city benefits from both coastal proximity and nearby natural attractions, alongside investments that support its status as a key economic and residential hub in the North West.
On the Wirral Peninsula, New Brighton stands out as a desirable coastal location, noted for its cultural amenities and sandy beaches. Despite currently affordable prices averaging around £249,000, experts warn that the area’s rise in popularity may lead to price increases.
Warrington is another commuter hotspot marked by affordable property prices averaging £292,294, well below the national average, alongside favorable family-oriented amenities such as good schools, childcare affordability, and green spaces. The town’s property market is reportedly one of the fastest-moving in England, with limited availability driving rapid transactions.
Collectively, these northern locations illustrate the evolving landscape of the UK property market, as economic growth and policy initiatives boost demand and increase the attractiveness of areas once considered secondary to the South.