Looking for the cheapest place to live in UK? Whether you’re moving for work, study, or just looking to cut down on living expenses, there are plenty of affordable spots across the country that offer great value without sacrificing too much in terms of quality of life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 cheapest places to live in 2025 and also highlight some safety concerns that might come with budget-friendly areas. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your wallet and peace of mind both thrive.
Top 10 Cheapest Place to Live in UK
If you’re looking to stretch your budget without giving up quality of life, these ten UK locations offer some of the lowest housing costs in the country, without feeling remote or cut off.
Based on the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and supported by everyday cost-of-living figures from the trusted source of Numbeo, these places all offer average rents below £670 a month and entry-level home prices well under the UK average of £292,000.
Here’s a closer look at what makes each one a smart and affordable choice.
1. Burnley, Lancashire
Tucked in the heart of East Lancashire, Burnley offers some of the most affordable housing in the UK. The average house price sits at just £121,000, with private rents averaging around £599 a month.
Daily expenses are just as budget-friendly—restaurant meals, for instance, cost less than a third of what you’d pay in London. You’ll also find one-bedroom rentals outside the town centre going for under £600. With decent rail links to Manchester and easy access to countryside trails, Burnley gives you low costs and a surprisingly balanced lifestyle.
2. County Durham
Historic and scenic, County Durham blends cathedral-city charm with surrounding countryside—and it remains one of the most affordable counties in England. Homes here average around £138,000, and rents are just under £600 per month.
Basic costs like transport and dining are also low, with average meals priced at about £14 and monthly public transport typically below £60. For those working in the North East, Durham’s fast train connections to Newcastle make it easy to live affordably while accessing city jobs.
3. Hartlepool, County Durham
A coastal town with a revitalised marina and long sandy beaches, Hartlepool offers excellent value for money. The average home costs around £136,000, and rents are among the lowest in the UK, averaging £546 per month.
It’s also been highlighted as the cheapest place in the country to rent a two-bedroom home—around £491 per month. With reliable transport links to Middlesbrough and the wider Teesside area, Hartlepool offers a seaside lifestyle at a price that’s hard to beat.
4. Pendle, Lancashire
Set against the backdrop of the Pennines, Pendle combines scenic views with real affordability. House prices average £142,000, while monthly rents are typically around £610 to £614.
Market towns like Nelson and Colne provide local charm, and direct trains to Manchester take under an hour—ideal for commuters. If you’re after more space, quieter surroundings, and housing that doesn’t eat up your income, Pendle is an often-overlooked gem.
5. Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Once known for its industrial past, Middlesbrough has grown into a tech-forward town while remaining highly affordable. Average house prices are around £142,000, and private rents come in at about £658 per month.
According to Numbeo, general living costs are around 15% lower than the UK urban average—broadband starts at around £32 a month, and cinema tickets are well under £10. With good transport links, local investment in the digital sector, and access to the North York Moors, it’s a practical place to put down roots.
6. Hyndburn, Lancashire
Centered on the town of Accrington, Hyndburn still reflects its mill-town roots—and that shows in the prices. Average house prices are just £133,000, and rents typically fall around £610 to £613 a month.
Despite the low costs, transport is a major plus here: regular trains to Manchester put big-city work within reach. Local councils are also investing in former industrial buildings, creating coworking spaces and cultural venues.
7. Blaenau Gwent, South Wales
Surrounded by dramatic valleys and open skies, Blaenau Gwent is one of the most affordable places to live in Wales. Homes here cost around £139,000 on average, with private rents at about £625 a month.
It also ranks among the best in the UK for housing affordability, with a price-to-income ratio of just 3.8. The local council provides support for residents facing cost-of-living pressures, including energy bill assistance. Cardiff is just over an hour away by train, giving you access to the capital without the high price tag.
8. Sunderland, Tyne & Wear
Sunderland, with its mix of coast, city, and student life, keeps living costs impressively low. House prices average around £144,000, and private rents hover near £669 per month.
Numbeo reports low everyday expenses here too—expect a meal out for £15 and a cappuccino for around £3.60. The ongoing Metro upgrades are making it easier than ever to commute or explore nearby attractions. Whether you’re studying, working, or raising a family, Sunderland offers great value.
9. North East Lincolnshire
Grimsby and Cleethorpes offer affordable seaside living without sacrificing convenience. The average house price in the area is around £156,000, and typical rent sits at just under £600 per month. The cost of living is similarly gentle, with fish-and-chip dinners, bus fares, and everyday groceries all coming in under the UK average.
The region is also benefitting from regeneration efforts around the docks, which have brought in new jobs in seafood and renewable energy. With rail access to Hull and Leeds, it’s a quiet but connected option.
10. Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire
Located just north of Manchester, Blackburn with Darwen is a growing hub with low living costs and a lot of potential. The average home costs around £162,000, while rents stay comfortably under £670 per month. Numbeo estimates everyday costs are roughly 20% lower than in London, and you can rent a one-bed flat outside the town centre for about £713.
The borough is investing in its creative sector, converting former mills into spaces for design, culture, and co-working—ideal if you want city buzz at half the price.
Top 10 Cheapest Places at a Glance
|
Rank |
Local authority |
Lower-quartile price-to-income ratio (ONS 2024) |
Average monthly rent (ONS avg, Mar/Apr 2025) |
Estimated house price (ONS avg, Mar/Apr 2025) |
|
1 |
Burnley |
2.77 |
£599 |
£121,000 |
|
2 |
County Durham |
3.22 |
£594 |
£138,000 |
|
3 |
Hartlepool |
3.35 |
£546 |
£136,000 |
|
4 |
Pendle |
3.5 |
£614 |
£142,000 |
|
5 |
Middlesbrough |
3.53 |
£658 |
£142,000 |
|
6 |
Hyndburn |
3.56 |
£613 |
£133,000 |
|
7 |
Blaenau Gwent |
3.48 |
£625 |
£139,000 |
|
8 |
Sunderland |
3.73 |
£669 |
£144,000 |
|
9 |
North East Lincolnshire |
3.89 |
£591 |
£156,000 |
|
10 |
Blackburn with Darwen |
4.02 |
£665 |
£162,000 |
Staying Safe in Affordable Areas: What to Know and How to Prepare
While affordable areas can be great for your wallet, it's natural to wonder about safety. Here are some what to expect and how to stay secure.
Choosing a more affordable place to live doesn’t mean compromising on safety, but it’s important to be informed. While overall crime in the UK has been on a downward trend, certain types of offences, particularly burglary and theft, still tend to occur more frequently in lower-cost areas.
Start with the Facts
Before moving in, it helps to look at official data rather than relying on word of mouth. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) publishes regular updates on crime by police force area, showing long-term patterns and recent changes.
For more local detail, police.uk offers postcode-level maps of incidents like burglary, theft, and anti-social behaviour.
It’s also worth noting that, according to ONS well-being surveys, around 30% of women and 11% of men say they feel unsafe walking alone at night—a feeling that can vary a lot depending on the location and environment.
Typical Issues in Cheaper Postcodes
Lower-cost areas often have more older or vacant properties, poor street lighting, or inconsistent upkeep. These are all factors that research links to higher levels of burglary and anti-social behaviour.
That said, serious violence remains relatively rare. In fact, the national rate of homicide has remained steady, with fewer than 10 cases per million people reported in 2024.
Do Some Local Research
Before you commit to a new place, check crime reports for the street and surrounding neighbourhood. Visit at different times of the day to get a feel for the area—see how well it’s lit, how many people are out and about, and how well-kept it looks.
Most councils also publish their community safety plans online, which include updates on policing priorities, CCTV coverage, and local safety improvements.
Secure Your Home from Day One
Taking a few simple steps to secure your home can make a big difference—especially in areas where property crime is more common. Start with the basics: strong locks on doors and windows, letterbox guards to prevent fishing, and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Landlords are legally required to provide alarms at the start of every tenancy, and you should always ask to see a valid gas safety certificate before moving in. This remains their legal responsibility.
Beyond the basics, small tech upgrades can add real peace of mind. Security cameras can act as a strong deterrent and provide evidence if anything does happen. Today’s models send real-time alerts to your phone once they detect motion and deliver sharper footage than ever, even at night.
Video doorbells are another smart addition, letting you monitor activity outside your front door from your phone and speak to visitors remotely. For wider protection, alarm systems (even simple, self-installed ones) can alert you or neighbours to intrusions and reduce your home insurance premiums.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home feel safer. These tools are increasingly affordable and easy to install. Just make sure you choose from a reliable brand, like eufy, to get the best value and performance.
Improve the Surroundings Too
Small changes outside your home can make a difference. Motion-activated lights and clear sightlines from the street help deter break-ins by increasing visibility. You can also report things like broken street lamps or fly-tipping to your local council online—these reports often help councils prioritise clean-up work and safety upgrades.
Connect with Your Community
You can join a local neighbourhood watch or an online community group. Being aware of recent activity and having neighbours who look out for one another can greatly improve overall safety and peace of mind.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the cheapest place to live in UK, it’s not just about saving money; it’s about feeling safe and comfortable in your new home. While there are plenty of affordable areas, it’s important to keep an eye on safety and plan ahead. By being mindful of these factors, you’ll set yourself up for a smart, secure move.
FAQs
What is the cheapest but nicest place to live?
If you’re after a balance of affordability and charm, Durham in North East England is often recommended. With average house prices around £130k and reasonable rents (circa £650 per month), it offers a beautiful historic city centre, riverside walks by Durham Cathedral, and a tight‑knit community vibe, all without the premium you’d pay in the south.
How can I live cheaply in the UK?
Living frugally in the UK is all about smart habits—switch energy providers, cancel unused subscriptions, and plan meals carefully. Use budgeting tools, compare utility and mobile deals, take advantage of discounts like supermarket “yellow‑sticker” bargains, use public transport or cycle, and batch buy essentials. These small, consistent choices can add up to significant savings without sacrificing quality of life.
What is the cheapest city to buy a house in the UK?
Burnley in Lancashire is often cited as the cheapest city—or large town—to buy a home in the UK, with average prices around £118k. Other very affordable areas include East Ayrshire in Scotland (£130k), Blaenau Gwent in Wales (£141k), and the city of Hull in England (~£115k), making these strong contenders for budget‑conscious homebuyers.
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