In a list published by The Telegraph, York was ranked the seventh best city to live in the UK, and the only city in the North of England to make the list. Based on research by PwC, cities were assessed on 12 criteria including health, income, jobs, safety, skills, work-life balance, housing, commuting times, income equality, high street shops, environment, and business start-ups. If you’re considering buying a home in York, here are 10 reasons why it’s a smart move.
1. A Rich History
York has a rich and colourful history. Founded in AD71 as Eboracum, it was a vital Roman stronghold until AD400. The Vikings invaded and occupied the city they called Jorvik for 150 years. Throughout the medieval period, York was a thriving hub of trade and culture and is often considered the “capital of the North.”
2. Thriving Tourist Centre
With a wide range of historic, architectural and cultural attractions, York is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. Highlights include York Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum, along with festivals and events throughout the year.
3. Excellent Transport Links
Centrally located in the UK, York benefits from excellent road and rail connections. As a major hub on the East Coast Main Line, direct trains to London Kings Cross take under 2 hours. The A1(M) and M62 provide motorway access across the country. Leeds Bradford Airport, offering flights to many European destinations, is less than an hour away.
4. A Range of Housing Options
From period homes on Bootham and The Mount to modern city-centre apartments, York offers properties to suit every lifestyle. Victorian terraces near the old Terry’s and Rowntree’s chocolate factories are popular with first-time buyers, while suburban areas like Acomb, Huntington and Clifton are perfect for families.
5. Regional Attractions
York is surrounded by some of the UK’s most picturesque countryside. The Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks are nearby, while the Yorkshire coast is less than an hour along the A64. Leeds is also just 20 miles away.
6. A Thriving Rental Market
For property investors, York offers strong returns, with higher-than-average rents and low vacancy rates. Demand for rental property is consistently high among young professionals, families and students. Additionally, York’s popularity as a tourist destination has created a thriving short-term rental market.
7. Outstanding Quality of Life
York combines beautiful streets, plentiful green spaces and the river Ouse with excellent amenities. Unemployment rates are well below the national average, and the standard of living is higher than in the wider Yorkshire and Humber region.
8. A Buoyant Job Market
Tourism and hospitality employ over 24,000 people in York. Other key sectors include the civil service, local government, biotechnology and professional services. The rail industry employs more than 5,000 people, and the fast-growing digital, creative and IT sectors now support over 3,000 jobs.
9. A Centre for Education
York is home to the University of York and York St John University, with over 28,000 students combined. Both institutions consistently rank among the UK’s top universities, attracting students worldwide.
10. Strong Property Prices
Between 2017 and 2022, York property prices rose by almost 30%. With high demand and limited supply, the city has consistently outperformed national trends. Forecasts suggest a further 12% growth in property values between 2024 and 2027.
Ready to Buy a Home in York?
If you’re thinking about buying a property in York, our local experts are here to help. View our latest properties or contact us today for friendly advice and to arrange a viewing.
