Happiest Places to Live
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Wherever I lay my hat, that’s my home.” But what if you didn’t have to just settle for anywhere? What if we could tell you the happiest places to live—where you don’t have to compromise on lifestyle, community, or quality of life?
Imagine finding a place that truly feels like home, where happiness isn’t just a hope, but a guarantee. Let’s explore the best locations that offer not just a house, but a fulfilling way of life.
Finding the perfect place to call home is important. According to the latest Happy at Home Index, Woodbridge in Suffolk is the happiest place to live in Great Britain. Now in its 13th year, this survey gathered insights from over 35,000 residents to understand what makes a location truly enjoyable.
Residents of Woodbridge praised its strong sense of community, welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to essential services such as schools and healthcare. These factors contributed to its top ranking.
What Makes Woodbridge Special?
Woodbridge is known for its lively high street, filled with independent shops, cosy pubs, and excellent restaurants. The town benefits from beautiful surroundings, with countryside walks and the scenic River Deben estuary nearby. The average asking price for a home in Woodbridge is £441,569, while renters typically pay around £1,478 per month.
Councillor Robin Sanders, Mayor of Woodbridge, highlighted the town’s historic charm, cultural attractions, and riverside setting as key reasons for its residents’ happiness. Woodbridge has a renowned independent cinema, a bustling market, and various community events that create a strong sense of belonging.
If you are considering a move to Woodbridge, working with a mortgage broker in the area can make the process smoother. A local mortgage adviser can provide tailored guidance, helping you find the best mortgage deals and ensuring you understand the lending criteria for properties in this desirable location.
Other Top-Rated Places to Live
While Woodbridge secured the top spot, several other locations ranked highly in the Happy at Home Index.
Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
Last year’s winner, Richmond upon Thames, remains a desirable place to live, ranking second in 2024. With beautiful riverside views, large parks, and high-quality amenities, Richmond offers a blend of urban convenience and green space. The average home costs £939,329, with rental prices around £3,131 per month.
A mortgage broker in Richmond can help prospective buyers understand the competitive property market, offering expert advice on mortgage products that suit their needs. With high property values, tailored mortgage support can be invaluable in securing the right deal.
Hexham, Northumberland
Hexham, a regular in the rankings, secured third place. This market town in Northumberland is valued for its history, friendly community, and picturesque surroundings. The average property price is £313,147, while renting costs around £840 per month.
For those looking to buy in Hexham, a mortgage broker can provide insights into the best mortgage rates and lenders familiar with the local housing market. They can help streamline the buying process, ensuring buyers secure a suitable mortgage offer.
Monmouth, Wales
Monmouth is the happiest place in Wales. Residents appreciate its scenic views, historic character, and strong community spirit. The average home price is £320,974, while rental costs are around £1,335 per month.
A mortgage adviser in Monmouth can help potential buyers understand local lending options, making homeownership more accessible. They can also guide buyers through Welsh property regulations and mortgage products best suited to the area.
Harrogate, Yorkshire and The Humber
Harrogate ranks fifth and is famous for its spa heritage, elegant streets, and green parks. It offers a high quality of life, with homes priced at around £394,312 and monthly rent averaging £1,439.
Prospective buyers in Harrogate can benefit from the expertise of a local mortgage broker, who can recommend mortgage deals that match their financial circumstances and ensure a seamless home-buying experience.
Skipton, Yorkshire and The Humber
Skipton, often called the “Gateway to the Dales,” combines rural beauty with urban amenities. Its average house price is £263,479, while renting costs around £1,030 per month.
A mortgage broker in Skipton can assist buyers by comparing lenders, helping them secure competitive mortgage rates, and ensuring they meet lending requirements in this sought-after market town.
Sevenoaks, South East
Sevenoaks is well known for its excellent schools, convenient commuter links to London, and ample green space. The average property price is £881,061, with monthly rent around £2,924.
With house prices on the higher end, buyers in Sevenoaks can benefit from a mortgage broker who understands the lending landscape. They can assist in affordability requirements and securing the most competitive mortgage rates.
Understanding What Contributes to Happiness
Each year, the Happy at Home Index surveys thousands of people to determine the factors that contribute to happiness. The results highlight key aspects such as community spirit, access to nature, local amenities, and overall quality of life. People consistently value a sense of belonging, safety, and green spaces.
Choosing the Right Place to Live
If you are planning to relocate, consider what matters most to you. Whether it is affordability, access to nature, or a vibrant social scene, the happiest places combine these qualities. If you plan to buy a home, our mortgage guides offer insights into finding the best mortgage deals and understanding mortgage eligibility criteria.
For more information on property trends, home-buying tips, and mortgage advice, explore our latest mortgage guides. Whether you are a first-time buyer or moving up the property ladder, understanding market trends can help you make an informed decision.
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