Top 5 Cheapest places to live in the UK with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Average property buying cost: £129,204
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £465

Sheldon offers diverse housing options, from modern flats to Victorian and Edwardian houses and affordable 1930s semi-detached properties. Many of these have been renovated, offering elegant living spaces with period features. With an average property buying cost of £129,204 as of September 2023 and an average 1-bedroom flat rent of £465 as of December 2023, it is no surprise that it is one of the cheapest places to live in the UK with the best quality of life. 

The area provides local amenities like supermarkets and independent shops, along with popular chains. For entertainment, locals enjoy various restaurants, cafés, pubs, and nearby attractions like Resorts World, offering shopping, cinema, bowling, and dining options. Sheldon has parks like Elmdon Park and Sheldon Country Park, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Land Registry UK (Sept 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Average property buying cost: £194,006
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £650

Stevenston, in north Ayrshire with its unique dunes, is part of the “Three Towns” area, including Saltcoats and Ardrossan. Compared to larger towns and cities, Stevenston offers a more affordable cost of living and a strong sense of community spirit. With an average property buying cost of £194,006 as of November 2023, and an average 1-bedroom flat rent of £650 as of December 2023, it’s a cost-effective living choice. 

It provides a peaceful environment with an excellent quality of life. The cost of living here is significantly lower than the national average, making it one of the cheapest places to live in the UK. Locals who love the outdoors can also enjoy exploring the Stevenston Beach, Ardeer Quarry Local Nature Reserve, Kerelaw Castle, Evolution Skatepark, Bonnie Lesley Monument, and the Stevenston Heritage Trail.

UK Price Index Website (Nov 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Average property buying cost: £194,006
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £675

Cumnock, a Victorian-style town in East Ayrshire, sits at the confluence of Lugar Water and Glaisnock Water. Crowned the 2nd most affordable town in the UK and the cheapest in Scotland in 2020, Cumnock remains a cost-effective place to live until today. With an average property buying cost of £194,006 as of November 2023, and an average 1-bedroom flat rent of £675 as of December 2023, it offers excellent value for money. 

Family-friendly amenities like Dumfries House, Blackstone Clydesdales & DIG-a-Day Experience, Heritage Centre Cumnock, and The Baird are nearby for locals to enjoy. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from cozy cafés like Words of Wisdom and Millies Corner to restaurants in hotels like the Royal Hotel and the Dumfries Arms Hotel, which features local produce. Despite being the second-largest town in East Ayrshire, Cumnock provides a diverse mix of independent shops and high-street retailers, making shopping trips elsewhere less necessary.

UK Price Index Website (Nov 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Average property buying cost: £301,613
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £446

If you seek a tranquil and picturesque home in County Durham, Ferryhill is one of the ideal choices to live in. This charming town blends historical charm with modern amenities, appealing to all. With affordable housing options, including traditional terraced houses and modern flats, Ferryhill attracts renters and buyers seeking convenience and value. Benefiting from excellent transport links, including bus services and the A1(M) motorway, it’s an ideal choice for commuters to Durham and Newcastle.

Some places to consider are areas like Ferryhill Station as it is near the train station, offering flats and houses with nearby amenities. Dean Bank provides a peaceful residential environment, suitable for families. With an average property buying cost of £301,613 as of November 2023, and an average 1-bedroom flat rent of £446 as of December 2023, Ferryhill offers exceptional value for money, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a rewarding living experience.

UK Price Index Website (Nov 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)

• Average property buying cost: £301,613
• Average 1-bed flat rent: £594

Peterlee offers affordable house prices and rental fees compared to the UK average, with an average property buying cost of £301,613 as of November 2023, and an average 1-bedroom flat rent of £594 as of December 2023. This makes it an ideal choice for those on a budget. 

Located amidst rolling hills overlooking the Durham limestone coast and surrounded by rural farmland, Peterlee provides a beautiful setting. Beyond affordability, there are a lot of activities for families and friends, including visits to Castle Eden Dene, Shotton Hall, The Play Place, Dewhirst Factory Outlet, and Little Land Play. While it has the ‘new town’ status, Peterlee boasts a strong sense of community spirit, with organizations collaborating to deliver services to residents. With a population of around 23,000, Peterlee is a vibrant town offering a unique living experience amidst its stunning local environment.

UK Price Index Website (Nov 2023) & Zoopla (Dec 2023)