Finding a spot that offers a mix of affordability, natural beauty, and a high quality of life can feel impossible in today’s property market.
However, new research highlights a cluster of smaller towns and coastal retreats across the UK where residents report happiness levels above the national average, all while home prices remain approachable.
The happiest places to live in the UK according to Regency Living
Across the country, these happy places unsurprisingly include seaside towns famed for their golden sands, historic charms, and community spirit, as well as market towns surrounded by rolling countryside where life moves at a gentler pace.
Many of these towns have average property prices under £300,000, a welcome contrast to the soaring costs in big cities.
Among the coastal gems ranked by wellbeing and affordability are well-loved towns like Southwold, Woolacombe, Whitby, and Margate. Tenby in Wales and Skegness in Lincolnshire also make the list, celebrated for their stunning beaches and vibrant local culture.
Crosby, one of the happiest places to live in the UK near Greater Manchester
Adding to this mix is a lesser-known seaside town roughly an hour from Greater Manchester, nestled on the Merseyside coast. This town offers all the seaside lifestyle perks – wide beaches backed by dunes, views stretching to North Wales, and iconic art installations along the shore at an average house price of just £217,133.
That town is Crosby. Situated around six miles north of Liverpool, Crosby has earned a happiness score of 7.42 from its residents. The beach is famed for its broad golden sands and Antony Gormley’s celebrated cast-iron statues that stand gazing out to sea.
Crosby’s property market suits a range of buyers, with semi-detached homes averaging £322,573, terraced houses £227,167, and flats priced around £179,023. Its affordable housing combined with natural beauty and community spirit sets it apart.
The research, compiled by Regency Living, underscores a wider trend: smaller towns and seaside locations consistently outperform cities in life satisfaction.
Many residents are drawn by the promise of space, serenity, and a strong sense of local community, all without the premium price tag found in big cities.