Rightmove has unveiled its highly anticipated Happy at Home Index for 2025, revealing the happiest places to live across the UK based on a survey of over 19,500 residents. Topping the list is the charming market town of Skipton in North Yorkshire, celebrated for its community spirit, scenic surroundings, and quality of life.
Nestled by the Yorkshire Dales, Skipton boasts a picturesque medieval castle, bustling high street market, historic canal towpaths, and a vibrant selection of independent shops and cozy pubs. Residents praised its close proximity to green spaces, a welcoming community vibe, excellent local services, and affordable living standards that make day-to-day life comfortable.
London’s Richmond upon Thames and Camden follow closely in second and third place, while Scotland’s Stirling and Wales’ Anglesey represent the happiest places in their respective regions.
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The West Midlands also features prominently, with Leamington Spa (12th) and Lichfield (13th) narrowly missing out on the top 10. Other notable West Midlands areas include Stratford-on-Avon, Shrewsbury, and Tamworth, further underlining the region’s appeal.
Here’s a snapshot of the UK’s top 10 happiest places to live, alongside their average home asking prices and monthly rents:
- Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber – £326,093 | £1,038
- Richmond upon Thames, London – £942,522 | £3,189
- Camden, London – £1,036,768 | £3,523
- Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Humber – £394,355 | £1,535
- Woodbridge, East of England – £462,734 | £1,309
- Altrincham, North West – £643,244 | £2,968
- Macclesfield, North West – £344,807 | £1,407
- Stirling, Scotland – £226,547 | £1,208
- Cirencester, South West – £472,990 | £1,975
- Hexham, North East – £331,198 | £967
In the West Midlands:
- Leamington Spa (12th)
- Lichfield (13th)
- Stratford-on-Avon (28th)
- Shrewsbury (32nd)
- Tamworth (33rd)
The survey also reveals broader insights into what influences happiness at home across the UK. Residents in the South West report the highest satisfaction with their area, while the East Midlands ranks lowest, though differences remain slight overall. Notably, rural dwellers express greater contentment than those in urban or suburban settings, especially when close to rivers, woods, coasts, national parks, or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Age plays a role in satisfaction levels, with older residents (65+) generally reporting higher happiness due to increased housing budgets, while younger adults (18-24) tend to be less content with their living situations.
Ultimately, Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home Index paints a hopeful picture of a nation where most people feel good about where they live, valuing community, nature, and affordability as key to their happiness.