For years, London and the South East have dominated the UK property investment landscape. However, a significant shift is underway as investors increasingly turn their attention to the North of England. With more affordable property prices, higher rental yields, major regeneration projects, and strong economic growth, the North has become a hotspot for savvy property investors.
This blog explores why the North of England is attracting more investment, the best cities to consider, and what makes this region a promising long-term opportunity for property investors.
Affordability and Better Value for Money
One of the key reasons property investors are looking North is affordability. London property prices have soared to levels that make it difficult for many investors to enter the market, with average house prices well above £500,000. In contrast, cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, and Newcastle offer significantly lower entry points.
- Manchester: Average house price ~ £225,000
- Liverpool: Average house price ~ £175,000
- Leeds: Average house price ~ £260,000
- Newcastle: Average house price ~ £190,000
Investors can buy multiple properties in the North for the price of one in London, diversifying their portfolio and spreading risk more effectively.
Higher Rental Yields
Rental yields are a crucial factor for buy-to-let investors, and the North of England offers some of the best yields in the UK. While yields in London often struggle to exceed 3-4%, cities in the North consistently achieve 6-8% or more.
For example:
- Liverpool: Yields of 7-9% in areas like L1, L2, and L3.
- Manchester: Yields of 6-7%, particularly around Salford and the city centre.
- Sheffield: Yields of 6-8%, thanks to a growing student population and affordability.
These higher returns make the North particularly attractive to property investors looking for strong rental income.
Massive Regeneration and Infrastructure Projects
Investment in Northern cities is booming, with billions being poured into regeneration and infrastructure projects that are transforming city centres and surrounding areas. These improvements increase property values and rental demand, making them prime locations for investors.
Some of the major projects include:
- Northern Powerhouse Initiative: A government-led plan to boost economic growth in the North.
- HS2 (High-Speed Rail Link): Will significantly improve transport links between London and the North, increasing connectivity and demand for housing.
- Liverpool Waters & Wirral Waters: A multi-billion-pound waterfront development transforming Liverpool.
- Leeds South Bank Project: A massive redevelopment to expand the city centre.
- Manchester’s Mayfield Project: A £1.5 billion scheme bringing new homes, businesses, and leisure spaces to the city.
These projects not only drive demand for housing but also attract businesses and skilled workers, further fuelling the property market.
Strong Economic Growth and Job Creation
Northern cities are no longer just industrial hubs; they are becoming key economic centres with booming industries in technology, finance, healthcare, and media. This has led to strong job growth and an influx of young professionals seeking rental accommodation.
- Manchester: The fastest-growing city in the UK outside of London, with a thriving digital and media sector (MediaCityUK).
- Leeds: A financial services hub, second only to London.
- Liverpool: A major player in life sciences, tourism, and creative industries.
- Newcastle: A growing tech and digital economy, attracting young talent.
A robust economy means higher demand for housing, ensuring property investors can find tenants quickly and benefit from long-term capital growth.
Growing Student Populations and Demand for Rentals
The North is home to some of the UK’s top universities, including:
- University of Manchester
- University of Leeds
- University of Liverpool
- Newcastle University
- Sheffield University
These institutions attract tens of thousands of students each year, creating a constant demand for rental properties. Purpose-built student accommodation and HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) investments are particularly profitable in these cities, often yielding over 8% per year.
Long-Term Capital Growth Potential
While property prices in London have stagnated or even declined in recent years, Northern cities continue to show strong capital growth. Recent data suggests that house prices in Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool are rising at a faster rate than in the South.
- Manchester: House prices increased by 5-7% per year over the past five years.
- Liverpool: Prices have surged by over 20% in the last three years.
- Leeds: Continuous growth, with experts predicting a 20-30% increase by 2030.
This capital appreciation makes the North not just a short-term rental yield opportunity but a long-term wealth-building strategy.
Government Support for Northern Growth
The UK government continues to push investment into the North through policies such as:
- Levelling Up Fund: Designed to improve infrastructure and living standards in the North.
- Tax Incentives for Investors: Certain Northern cities have business-friendly policies and incentives for property developers and landlords.
- Enterprise Zones: Cities like Liverpool and Manchester benefit from business incentives, increasing employment and housing demand.
Government backing adds an extra layer of confidence for investors looking to buy in the region.
The North of England has emerged as one of the best place to invest in UK property, thanks to its affordability, strong rental yields, economic growth, and long-term capital appreciation potential. Cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, and Newcastle are proving to be the most attractive investment destinations, offering investors a chance to secure high returns without the financial burden of London’s inflated property prices.
With continued regeneration, a strong job market, and government support, the Northern property market is expected to thrive for years to come. For investors looking for the best opportunities in UK real estate, the North is undoubtedly the place to be.
