The credit crunch and subsequent recession have left lasting effects on the UK’s population. With house prices dropping, rents rising and mortgages becoming harder to come by, many Brits are looking to survive and find cheaper places to live. Based on Halifax data, we’re looking at areas in the UK to avoid if you want to save some money.
Westminster
It’s no surprise that the seat of British government is one of the most expensive places to live. With an astonishing average price of £7,586 per square metre, homes in Westminster are some of the most expensive properties to buy or rent in the UK. With such a premium price tag, you’d think you’d be getting a mid-sized house. Wrong. The houses in Westminster are some of the smallest in Great Britain.
St Albans
Another gem in the south, St Albans is steeped in history dating back to Roman times. With idyllic surroundings and commuter links to the capital, homes in St Albans cost an average of £3,227 per square metre. The scenery and rolling countryside alone is worth the steep price.
Oxford
Modern mythology claims that Hitler ordered the Luftwaffe not to bomb Oxford because he wanted it to be the capital of his Third Reich. While this has never been proven, what is certain is how pristine and historic the city of Oxford is. Houses in prestigious areas cost an average of £2,821 per square meter.
Winchester
This southern city is filled with Anglo-Saxon history. The former capital of England and present-day county town of Hampshire boasts a cathedral and connection to Alfred the Great. Homes in the historic capital sell for an average of £2,813 per square metre.
Chichester
Another cathedral city with a rich history dating back to Roman times, Chichester was one of Alfred the Great’s strongest ‘burhs’. Remains of a Roman amphitheater can still be seen in one of Chichester’s parks, hinting at the city’s history. The city carries an average price of £2,638 per square metre.
Cambridge
University Town is located on the river Cam, hence its name. It is known as the home of one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with the King’s College Chapel being an iconic symbol. With the rail link to London, the average price is £2,634 per square metre.
Brighton
A popular beach vacation spot for Victorian Londoners, this city on the south coast is still a popular vacation spot today. Among its famous architecture, the Royal Pavilion and pier boardwalk are the most memorable. Brighton has transformed itself into a metropolis, known for its nightlife and LGBT culture. Homes in Brighton have an average price of £2,549 per square metre.
Bathe
Named for the Roman public baths, Bath is famous for its Georgian architecture and unique Bath stones. Royal Crescent, designed by John Wood the Younger in 18th Century, is home to some of the most recognizable Georgian terraces in England. Home prices in this former Roman city average £2,376 per square metre.
Edinburgh
The first northern city to feature on our list, the capital of Scotland is famous for its castle in the city center. One of the oldest local derbies in football history is between two Scottish Premier League clubs in Edinburgh, Hearts of Midlothian and Hibernian. Homes come in at an average of £2,125 per square meter.
Salisbury
William Wordsworth famously wrote the poem ‘Salisbury Plain’ about the area. Its many rivers offer local spots for sunbathing and bathing, such as the shallow, slow-flowing Avon which winds its way through Queen Elizabeth Park.
Ben Smith – worked for a real estate agency in London. When he’s not selling homes, he’s busy working on them as a property developer.
