Manchester has overtaken London as the UK city with the fastest-growing house prices, according to new data from Rightmove. Over the past decade, average asking prices in the city have surged by 63%, from £160,422 in 2016 to £261,891 in 2026.
London prices stagnate
In contrast, London has seen only a 7% increase over the same period, with average prices rising from £639,593 to £687,080. While the capital remains the most expensive city in the UK, its growth has been sluggish compared to northern cities.
Reasons behind Manchester's growth
Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, described Manchester as "a big winner of the past decade." She noted that "areas with lower starting price points have had more room for growth, which has contributed to a widening north-south divide in price growth trends."
Maurice Kilbride, managing director at Maurice Kilbride Residential Sales in Cheadle, Greater Manchester, attributed the growth to "strong employment opportunities, significant upward investment, excellent transport links, and a vibrant lifestyle." He added that the city's success has extended beyond the centre, with suburbs also benefiting from increased demand.
Local perspectives on change
Residents have expressed mixed feelings about the transformation. On TikTok, user @keirainmanchester commented: "It's getting more and more like London every year. The rent prices, the busyness, the skyscrapers, the cost of living. It's basically London with more rain."
James Crawford, a Manchester resident of 25 years, noted that areas like Chorlton have become more affluent and polished. "It's hard to imagine many first-time buyers getting into Chorlton now," he said. However, he believes Manchester still has affordable pockets for those willing to look further out.
Top 10 UK cities for price growth
- Manchester: £261,891 (+63%)
- Wolverhampton: £229,094 (+63%)
- Newport: £235,275 (+57%)
- Nottingham: £210,238 (+53%)
- Wakefield: £231,581 (+52%)
- Salford: £226,559 (+52%)
- Bradford: £171,282 (+51%)
- Stoke-on-Trent: £174,850 (+49%)
- Doncaster: £186,378 (+49%)
- Swansea: £215,866 (+48%)
James Crawford concluded: "You want growth, better restaurants, better jobs and better places to live, but you don't want the city to become sterile."
