The Most Expensive Postcodes Outside London: A Commuter's Guide
Britain's most expensive residential postcodes located outside of London have been officially identified, and the findings highlight a clear geographic trend. All ten of the top-ranking postcodes are situated within comfortable commuting distance of the capital, underscoring the enduring appeal of London-adjacent living.
A Southern Concentration
There is a notable absence of regional diversity in the list, with every single expensive postcode found in the South of England. These areas have become highly sought-after by Londoners seeking to exchange the intensity of city life for a more tranquil setting, while still maintaining easy access to the capital's employment opportunities and amenities.
Damien Jefferies, founder of Jefferies James, commented on this pattern, noting it reflects the significant influence of London's property market. "The nation's most prestigious postcodes can all be found within arm's reach of the capital," he explained to MoneyWeek.
The Top Contenders
Leading the rankings is the EN5 postcode, covering Barnet, New Barnet, and Wrotham Park, which lies just 12 miles from central London. At the other end of the spectrum, the postcode located furthest from London within the top ten is HP9 in Buckinghamshire, encompassing Beaconsfield, Forty Green, Seer Green, and Jordans, approximately 25 miles from the capital.
For context, Britain's overall most expensive postcode remains W1B in the City of Westminster, where properties command a median value of £4.38 million. This contrasts sharply with the UK's average property price of £298,602, as reported by Halifax's house price index.
County Breakdown and Local Highlights
Surrey features prominently, claiming five spots on the list. Hertfordshire follows closely, securing three positions, including the top two. The top-ranked area, Hertsmere, is renowned as the home of Elstree Film Studios, the filming location for major productions like Star Wars and The King's Speech. The area also boasts Aldenham Country Park, a 160-acre expanse of parkland, farmland, and lakes.
Below is the detailed list of the ten most expensive postcodes outside London, based on average house prices:
- EN5 – £1,875,000 (Hertsmere, Hertfordshire)
- HA6 – £1,220,000 (Three Rivers, Hertfordshire)
- BR6 – £1,155,000 (Sevenoaks, Kent)
- HP9 – £950,000 (Buckinghamshire)
- SM2 – £915,050 (Epsom and Ewell, Surrey)
- GU25 – £912,500 (Runnymede, Surrey)
- HA7 – £885,000 (Hertsmere, Hertfordshire)
- KT24 – £870,000 (Guildford, Surrey)
- KT10 – £850,000 (Elmbridge, Surrey)
- KT11 – £845,000 (Elmbridge, Surrey)
This ranking illustrates the premium placed on locations that offer a blend of rural charm and metropolitan connectivity, continuing to attract those looking to balance lifestyle and proximity to London.
