Stafford, a town in the West Midlands, has recorded the second highest increase in house prices across England this year, with property values rising by over £34,000 on average according to recent data.
The average house price in Stafford now stands at £321,248, reflecting a notable 12% increase over the past 12 months. This surge places Stafford as the only West Midlands location in the national top 10 for house price growth.
Nationally, only Plymouth in Devon outperformed Stafford, posting a 12.6% rise. Meanwhile, many regions experienced more modest increases or even declines in property values.
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Despite this local growth, the West Midlands overall saw just a 1.3% average increase, ranking the region near the bottom compared to others, with only the North East, South East, and London faring worse. In fact, towns like Solihull and Worcester faced some of the steepest declines nationally, ranking fourth and fifth for house price drops.
Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Lloyds Bank, commented on these trends: “We’ve supported thousands of homebuyers this year, whether first-timers or those moving up the property ladder. Property values vary widely, with some areas experiencing sharp rises and others seeing prices cool.”
She advises potential buyers to thoroughly research local market conditions. “Understanding local price swings is crucial as they impact the deposit required, Stamp Duty, and overall moving costs. Exploring different areas can reveal opportunities where your money goes further.”
Bryden also highlighted regional affordability differences, noting that northern England and Scotland remain more affordable than the south, offering rich cultural experiences and beautiful countryside.
“Ultimately, when choosing where to live, factors beyond price matter — community connection, commute, and lifestyle all play vital roles,” she added.