The UK’s Most Affordable Towns for First-Time Buyers

Looking to buy your first home? Congrats! It’s a big step, from adjusting to a new neighbourhood to pulling together a deposit to making an offer.  

In 2024, it can be a challenge for first-time buyers to step onto the property ladder. While pricey avocado toast and barista-made coffees tend to take the blame, there’s more to it. Average salaries haven’t increased at the same rate as property prices, meaning buyers need to squirrel away a larger deposit (and consider buying with someone else) to make it possible. 

Thankfully, remote work has allowed many first-time buyers to explore corners of the country that are kind to their minds (hello green spaces!) and wallets (affordability, nice to see you!).  Check out the latest UK towns that are affordable for first-time buyers.  

Bradford, West Yorkshire, England 

Ah, our northern friend. Bradford tops the list for being the most affordable town for first-time buyers. Average prices for terraced homes are around £144,000, with plenty of places to choose from. It’s just 30 minutes from Leeds and offers employment opportunities of all types. You’re just a quick drive or train ride from Manchester, Sheffield and York too. Ready to have a peek? 

Learn more: Bradford local property guide 

See properties for sale in Bradford  

Carlisle, Cumbria, England 

Head further north and you’ll stumble into the Border City. Situated very close to the Scottish border and just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Lake District is Carlisle – another affordable hotspot for potential buyers.  The city itself features a beautiful cathedral and a historic castle. While it’s not particularly close to major cities, it’s ideal for those wishing to enjoy a peaceful life or start a family, with terraced houses coming in around £131,000. We like the sound of a beautiful setting without depleting the coffers.

Search houses for sale in Carlisle  

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Scotland 

Let’s keep heading north, shall we? All the way up to the north-east coast of Scotland – Aberdeen is an incredibly affordable place to buy property – whether it’s your first or third house. Despite its nickname Granite City, it features amazing natural spaces right on your doorstep, along with castles, museums, galleries and a wholesome community in each neighbourhood. You may be looking at spending £132,000 on a terraced home here.  

Start your search for Aberdeen homes for sale  

Hull, East Yorkshire, England 

It’s never dull in Hull – and all the entertainment, activities and iconic landmarks prove it. And, better yet, the cost of living is lower in Hull compared to the rest of the UK. And this tracks across the board, from food, transport and properties – with the average terraced house setting you back around £120,000. Ideal for couples looking to put down roots or individuals ready to try something different, there are plenty of affordable homes to make your first purchase.

Head on over to our Hull local property guide 

Scope out homes for sale in Hull  

Cardiff, Wales 

Now we’re entering Wales. The western suburbs of the capital can offer first-time buyers a choice of houses, as well as spacious apartments. In recent years, there’s been a surge of young people flocking there for the nightlife, job opportunities, in addition to the rich culture and impressive heritage. Prepare to spend around £200,000 to live in this lively area. 

Explore our Cardiff property guide 

Check out Cardiff houses for sale   

Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England 

Stoke is also another kind-to-your-pocket place to live. There are plenty of benefits to settling there – such as the ceramic scene, Alton Towers, museums, gardens and canals. Not only is it affordable to live, but the price of properties tends to be more reasonable than its neighbouring cities in the midlands. The average terraced costs around £117,000. 

Read on: Stoke local property guide 

Find your Stoke home for sale  

Find your first home for sale 

With plenty of affordable areas to make your first purchase, where will you choose? Seek out more cities through our local property guides and explore homes for sale right here. And, if you need a helping hand with your first mortgage, we can help with that too. 

^{Prices accurate at time of writing: August 2024, resourced from Land Registry. We aim to ensure that the information above is accurate at the time of publishing. As the property market moves fast, please be aware that some information may now be out of date. Purplebricks accepts no responsibility or liability for any decisions you make based on the information provided.}