Copy article

This is Money request: Happiest places to live in the UK – anecdotes on why the top 10 are so good

ended 05. December 2025

This is Money request: 

I'm looking for property agents and experts (or just people local to these places!) for a follow up on this piece on Rightmove's happiest places to live. 

https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-15348915/The-happiest-gloomiest-locations-live-Britain-revealed-list.html

Keen to get some anecdotes on why the top 10 are so good – and why people who live there are happy. 

1. Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber (average asking house price) £326,093 (average asking rent) £1,038

2. Richmond upon Thames, Greater London, £942,522, £3,189

3. Camden, Greater London, £1,036,768, £3,523

4. Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Humber, £394,355, £1,535

5. Woodbridge, East of England, £462,734, £1,309

6. Altrincham, North West, £643,244, £2,968

7. Macclesfield, North West, £344,807, £1,407

8. Stirling, Scotland, £226,547, £1,208

9. Cirencester, South West, £472,990, £1,975

10. Hexham, North East, £331,198, £967

Responses by 1pm please.
 

2 responses from the Newspage community

Copy all

Copy

Editor
Andrew Montlake
CEO at Coreco
Having literally just played a gig in Camden last night with my band Rogue Monkey, and it being the centre of a sometimes misplaced youth, I can attest to the fact that Camden is a cool place to live. The myriad of eateries, pubs and venues as well as the iconic Camden market gives the place a vibrant buzz. To walk round the streets of Camden, or by the side of the canal, is at times both relaxing and exciting, you never know what is round the next corner. Travel links are excellent, some of the houses beautiful and it’s a short cab ride back from London. It does come with an edge, but the different types of people all have a similar attitude of laid back, helpfulness and fun.
Copy

Editor
Darryl Dhoffer
Founder at The Mortgage Geezer
Its no wonder these areas are highly sought after. If you enjoy both nature and city life, then Skipton and Macclesfield pair excellent schools and vibrant high streets with immediate access to national parks or if you desire vast green spaces, Richmond Upon Thames is the icing on the cake.
Strong local spirit guarantees a sense of belonging, from Altrincham's social market hall to Hexham's renowned neighbourly spirit.
If you are seeking superior services despite high costs the likes of Richmond Upon Thames is a shoe in, or if you desire high quality of life at regional affordability Stirling and Macclesfield is also high on the list.