Buying a home as a single person can be challenging, but new research from Zoopla highlights the most affordable cities for solo buyers in Great Britain. Aberdeen has been named the cheapest city for single homebuyers, with average home prices at £119,350 and mortgage payments of £510 per month, which is just 16% of the area’s average salary.
Liverpool tops the list in England, while Blaenau Gwent is the most affordable option in Wales. The study also reveals that rising wages have improved affordability in southern England, despite relatively stable house prices.
This article breaks down the top 10 most affordable cities for single homebuyers, mortgage costs, and key trends affecting affordability.
Aberdeen: The Cheapest City for Solo Buyers
Aberdeen ranks number one for affordability, with an average home price of £119,350. The city offers:
- Low house price-to-earnings ratio (3.0)
- Affordable monthly mortgage payments (~£510)
- Strong local economy and job market
If you’re looking to buy alone, Aberdeen provides one of the best opportunities to step onto the property ladder without overstretching your finances.
Liverpool: Most Affordable in England
Liverpool ranks as the most affordable city for single homebuyers in England, with:
- Average home price: £130,800
- Mortgage payments: ~£540 per month (18% of average salary)
- Growing economy and strong rental market
The city’s affordability makes it a popular choice for first-time buyers and investors alike.
House Price Growth vs. Wage Growth
Zoopla’s report highlights that affordability is improving, particularly in southern England, due to:
- House prices increasing by only 1.5% in the past year (excluding London)
- Average wage growth of 5.6% over the same period
This trend has made cities like Bristol, Oxford, Portsmouth, and Cambridge more accessible for homebuyers than in previous years.
Top 10 Most Affordable Cities for Single Homebuyers
Zoopla’s study ranks the top 10 most affordable locations to buy a one- or two-bedroom home, based on average property values and house price-to-earnings ratio:
| Rank | City | Region | Average Price | House Price-to-Earnings Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aberdeen | Scotland | £119,350 | 3.0 |
| 2 | Liverpool | North West | £130,800 | 3.7 |
| 3 | Glasgow | Scotland | £152,270 | 4.1 |
| 4 | Sheffield | Yorkshire & Humber | £156,990 | 4.2 |
| 5 | Newcastle | North East | £150,360 | 4.2 |
| 6 | Leeds | Yorkshire & Humber | £178,020 | 4.8 |
| 7 | Cardiff | Wales | £198,920 | 5.3 |
| 8 | Nottingham | East Midlands | £162,830 | 5.3 |
| 9 | Birmingham | West Midlands | £188,240 | 5.4 |
| 10 | Southampton | South East | £194,260 | 5.5 |
Key Takeaways for First-Time Buyers
Affordable options exist outside London: While the South East remains expensive, cities in Scotland and the North offer better value.
Wage growth is outpacing house prices in some areas: This is improving affordability in cities like Bristol, Oxford, and Portsmouth.
Mortgage costs are manageable in top-ranked cities: In Aberdeen, mortgage payments take up just 16% of average salaries, compared to 30-40% in London.
Advice for Single Homebuyers
Research house price trends – Some cities may offer better long-term investment potential.
Compare mortgage rates – A lower interest rate can significantly reduce monthly payments.
Consider areas with strong rental markets – If your circumstances change, you can rent out your home.
For single buyers looking to step onto the property ladder, Aberdeen, Liverpool, and Glasgow offer the best affordability in 2024. With house price growth slowing and wages rising, affordability is improving in southern England as well.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for an affordable city to settle in, these rankings provide key insights to help make an informed decision.
FAQ
Which city is the cheapest for single homebuyers in the UK?
Aberdeen is the most affordable city for solo buyers, with an average home price of £119,350 and mortgage payments of around £510 per month.
What is the most affordable city for homebuyers in England?
Liverpool is the most affordable city in England, with average home prices at £130,800 and mortgage payments of £540 per month.
How has house price affordability changed in the UK?
Wage growth (5.6%) has outpaced house price growth (1.5%), improving affordability in cities like Bristol, Oxford, and Portsmouth.
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