Affordability is a big factor when considering why so many renters have chosen commuter towns in recent years. While rental properties in big cities offer the benefit of being within walking distance of business districts and lively bars, restaurants, and attractions, they often don’t come cheap.
Tenants looking for a high-quality rental property in the centre of a big city can often expect this quality to be reflected in the cost, with average rental prices of £2,625 in Central London as an example, according to data from Zoopla.
The fact that tenants who choose properties in less central areas can get more for their money is a big selling point and a reason behind this surge in demand for commuter areas.
Aside from the financial aspect, there has also been a general shift over recent years towards the quieter lifestyle that can often be found from living on the outskirts of a city. Since 2020, when remote and hybrid working became commonplace across UK businesses, living near the workplace has been less of a priority for many.
Living in smaller towns on the commuter belt to big cities offers renters the chance to enjoy access to more green spaces and proximity to the countryside, along with the benefit of lower rents.