Most affordable places to move in Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a historical area of Northern England. It is known for its Viking and Roman heritage, along with the Norman castles, Industrial Revolution-era cities, medieval abbeys, and national parks. From the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales to the bustling urban centres of Leeds and Sheffield, this northern gem offers many attractive areas.  

Although Yorkshire is known for its charm and diversity, it is also ideal for those interested in affordable living options. For couples, families, and individuals looking for a budget-friendly area offering all amenities and variety, Yorkshire is an excellent choice. There is a mix of thriving local economies, superb transport links, and an overall welcoming community.  

So, are you wondering: What is the cheapest place to live in Yorkshire? We shall discuss that below.

10 Cheapest places to live in Yorkshire

There’s some good news for everyone seeking affordable living in Yorkshire: this region offers a variety of options where house prices fall well below the UK average. The national average for house prices is around £286,000, while in many areas of Yorkshire, you can find great options that are under £150,000. Yorkshire is a fantastic choice for young professionals, first-time buyers, or anyone looking to save money by enjoying affordable housing.  

Hull  

With an average housing price of around £121,000, Hull is a good area for you to consider. Also known as Kingston upon Hull, this port city offers some of the most affordable housing in Yorkshire. The city has a rich maritime history with a vibrant arts and cultural scene. It was also named UK City of Culture in 2017.  

For families, Hull offers many good schooling options and numerous parks, such as the expansive East Park and Pearson Park. There are plenty of employment opportunities, especially in logistics, education, and healthcare. Plus, you have universities and a strong rental market. Yorkshire provides a good public transport network, making commuting quite straightforward.  

Bradford  

Known as a UNESCO City of Film, Bradford offers a contrast where affordability meets cultural diversity. It is renowned for many beautiful landmarks, such as the National Science and Media Museum. Additionally, Bradford has a thriving manufacturing, education, and retail economy, with many job opportunities. The average house price in Bradford is around £134,000, which is significantly less than the national average.  

The housing options can range from Victorian terraced homes to more modern developments. Their housing is ideal for families, investors, and even first-time buyers. The schools in Bradford are improving, with many good institutions. Bradford is close to the Yorkshire Dales, which is excellent for nature enthusiasts who want access to hiking and other outdoor activities.  

Wakefield  

Located at the heart of West Yorkshire, Wakefield offers a combination of suburban tranquillity and city convenience. This makes it particularly appealing for those who want affordable housing near major urban centres. The average house price in Wakefield is around £193,000, which is considerably less when compared to nearby Leeds or Sheffield.  

The city has good transport links and a direct train route to Leeds that takes less than 20 minutes. It also offers easy access to the M1 motorway. If you prefer a quieter lifestyle, Wakefield has many parks, such as Pugney’s Country Park and the renowned Yorkshire Sculpture Park. There are numerous housing options, ranging from terraced houses to larger family homes.  

Barnsley  

This is a budget-friendly gem located at the edge of the Peak District National Park. With an average housing price of £150,000, it offers great value for money, especially when compared to pricier cities like Sheffield. Barnsley has a strong sense of community and many parks, and it is close to one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks. Therefore, it is a great choice for nature lovers and families.  

In recent years, Barnsley's economy has diversified. The town offers affordable housing with semi-detached homes and terraced properties. This is ideal for young families and first-time buyers looking for space at a reasonable price. The town also has excellent transport connections to Sheffield, Manchester, and Leeds.  

Doncaster  

Doncaster has an average house price of £167,000. It is located in South Yorkshire and is known for its excellent transport links, including Doncaster Sheffield Airport. It also has a direct railway line to London. The town is home to a growing economy and has a lot of retail and leisure offerings as well, with major shopping centres like Frenchgate and Lakeside Village.  

If you enjoy green spaces, the town boasts many parks and open areas. It is great for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Doncaster is also investing in new housing developments.  

Rotherham  

Situated just outside of Sheffield, Rotherham is a popular choice for those wanting affordable housing in Yorkshire. The average house price in Rotherham is around £170,000. It is typically popular with first-time buyers and families.  

One of the biggest advantages of Rotherham is its excellent transportation connections. The town has buses, trains, and tram links, all offering easy access to Sheffield, Leeds, and other areas. The town is also located near the M1 motorway, making it ideal for commuters. There is a wide range of housing options in Rotherham, from modern developments to older terraced homes. The town is close to many green spaces.  

Scarborough

As a coastal town on the North Yorkshire coast, Scarborough is a great, affordable place offering a relaxed seaside lifestyle. With an average house price of around £175,000, it is definitely one of the more attractive areas in Yorkshire. It offers a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle of larger cities. 

The town has many beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbour, and historic landmarks, including Scarborough Castle. These elements offer a slower pace of life, which makes it great for retirees, some families, and individuals searching for a change of scenery. Scarborough has many employment opportunities in hospitality, retail, and leisure.

Grimsby  

Grimsby is located on the Humber Estuary in an affordable growing town. It has many housing options for those seeking an affordable lifestyle. The average house price is around £145,000. The location provides easy access to the coast, offering residents the chance to enjoy beachside living while still being connected to large cities like Lincoln and Hull. Grimsby has undergone significant regeneration and has improved in shopping centres, public spaces, and transportation networks. 

It offers many employment options, too. The housing options in Grimsby include affordable terraced homes and modern housing estates. The town also has good schools, parks, and leisure facilities.

Middlesbrough  

With the average housing price being around £110,000, this is one of the most affordable areas in Yorkshire. Middlesbrough is located in North Yorkshire, and it offers housing close to the coast. The town has a diverse economy with major industries, including healthcare, engineering, and digital technology. 

The economy is bolstered by Teesside University, which adds a youthful vibe and a demand for rental properties. Middlesbrough has great public transport, good train links, and numerous green spaces, cultural attractions, etc.

Selby  

As a market town in North Yorkshire with an average house price of £185,000, Selby is a great choice. Selby is a quieter area known for its historic Abbey and riverside location. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside with many outdoor activity opportunities. 

Selby is located close to York and Leeds, making it perfect for those who are working in the larger cities but prefer a more tranquil lifestyle. Selby offers a variety of housing options, like quaint cottages, modern estates, and semi-detached homes. It is great for young families and first-time buyers.

What is the cheapest city in Yorkshire?

As of 2024, Middlesbrough is the most affordable place where you can buy a home in Yorkshire. The average home price is around £110,000. With that price, Middlesbrough is considered one of the most budget-friendly options in this region. It is well below the national average. In addition, areas like Barnsley and Bradford also offer relatively affordable housing options, with the average being £155,000 and £140,500. 

That said, Middlesbrough stands out not just for its low property prices but also for its growing cultural scene. Plus, it is close to many larger cities, like York and Leeds. This is why it is a great choice for homebuyers on a budget.

What is the most deprived area in Yorkshire?

One of the most deprived areas in Yorkshire is Barnsley. The town faces significant challenges, especially in terms of education, health, housing, and employment. These areas are often measured by the Index of Multiple Deprivation, which shows a high level of deprivation in different categories. 

However, despite these challenges, Barnsley has been focusing on regeneration efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Is Yorkshire a low income area?

Yorkshire is known for being a diverse region with areas of both affluence and deprivation. Some parts of cities, like Leeds, York, and Harrogate, are known for having higher than average incomes, while other regions, like Barnsley and Middlesbrough, have higher levels of poverty and lower average earnings. 

Overall, the region has both low and high-income areas, so it is difficult to classify it as just low-income.

Which areas of Yorkshire are facing the most regeneration?

There are several areas currently undergoing significant regeneration efforts in Yorkshire. These efforts aim to boost economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance living conditions. Notably, Hull is receiving a considerable amount of investment, as the local council is focusing on city centre renewal, affordable housing, and creating greener neighbourhoods. 

Towns like Doncaster, Wakefield, and Rotherham are also seeing regeneration projects, with improvements to public spaces, pedestrianisation, and the development of community hubs. These efforts are part of a larger £80 million government-backed initiative created to boost towns across the region.

What is the least deprived area in Yorkshire?

If you are looking for the least deprived area in Yorkshire, you should consider North Yorkshire. Specifically, regions like Harrogate, Richmondshire, Hambleton, Craven, and Selby stand out. These areas are often described as having higher levels of income, better employment prospects, and strong access to education, health services, and housing. 

For example, Richmondshire and Harrogate are often ranked as some of the least deprived districts in the region, offering relatively high living standards when compared to other parts of Yorkshire. 

How to sell your house in cheap Yorkshire areas?

If you want to sell your house in one of Yorkshire's more affordable areas, you need to have a tailored approach to maximise interest and ensure a smooth sale. Here are some key steps to follow. 

• Understand the market - Make sure to research potential buyers in your area. Affordable Yorkshire areas often attract first-time buyers, young professionals, and investors looking for rental opportunities. 

• Choose a good price - You need to be realistic about pricing. Work with a local estate agent to find a fair market price. 

• Emphasise local amenities - Buyers in these areas often value practicality. So make sure to highlight the proximity to public transport, shopping centres, schools, and parks. 

• Be ready to negotiate - In more affordable areas, buyers are usually looking for a good deal. So, you should be ready to negotiate the price! 

What's the easiest way to sell a house in Yorkshire?

Are you looking for the fastest and easiest way to sell your home in Yorkshire? We are here to help! With over 200 years of combined experience, we are here to buy your house, no matter its condition. All you have to do is fill in your postcode at the top of the site, answer a few questions, and we will give you a call.