What Makes a Location “Hot” in 2026
Before diving into specific areas, here’s what tends to define a strong buy in 2026:
Solid recent house price performance and rental growth, signalling demand from both homeowners and investors.
Good commuter and transport links, increasingly important as hybrid working remains common.
Balanced lifestyle appeal including schools, green spaces, community amenities, and local retail/leisure.
Affordability compared with major cities, giving buyers more property for their money.
The North West is currently one of the fastest-growing regions in England, making it fertile ground for buyers looking for both value and long-term potential.
With that in mind, here are a number of areas worth watching in 2026.
Top Emerging Areas to Watch in the North West
Southport
Typical property prices
The average sold price in Southport over the last 12 months was around £247,132.
Breakdown by property type: detached homes ~ £400,341; semi-detached ~ £224,793; terraced ~ £192,165; flats ~ £157,972.
What type of buyers it attracts
Southport tends to draw families looking for coastal lifestyle and retirees or downsizers seeking sea breeze and amenities. Its varied property types make it accessible for first-time buyers, families and those seeking retirement homes.
Lifestyle, transport & community feel
Coastal town with a seafront promenade, beaches, and traditional seaside-town charm, appealing to lifestyle-focused buyers.
Local amenities, shops, leisure and transport links offer convenience along with relaxed living.
Many residents enjoy a calmer pace of life while still being within reach of larger cities for work or travel.
Market performance & potential
Given its modest price levels compared with major cities and the growing demand for coastal living, Southport offers good value potential, especially for lifestyle-driven and long-term buyers.
Ormskirk (and surrounding West Lancashire)
Typical property prices
Over the last year, the overall average sold price in Ormskirk was about £261,592.
Semi-detached properties averaged around £264,503; detached homes ~ £411,588; flats ~ £152,808.
Local data shows steady long-term growth: over the last 5 years, average property prices in Ormskirk increased by around 9.9%.
What type of buyers it attracts
Ormskirk appeals to commuters, families, and buyers wanting a balance between countryside and town amenities. Larger homes attract families, while smaller homes and flats appeal to younger buyers or downsizers.
Lifestyle, transport & community feel
Ormskirk offers a mix of rural charm and modern conveniences, with countryside surroundings and essential amenities.
The area works well for commuters wanting quieter living environments but with access to larger job centres.
Stable community feel and long-term value make it attractive for buyers prioritising stability over city volatility.
Market performance & potential
With moderate prices and a history of consistent growth, Ormskirk remains appealing for long-term investment. Demand for commuter-belt towns continues to support strong buyer interest.
Chorley
Typical property prices
Average house price in Chorley as of September 2025 was £203,000.
Detached properties average around £325,000; semi-detached ~ £202,000; terraced ~ £161,000; flats ~ £113,000.
What type of buyers it attracts
Chorley appeals to first-time buyers, younger families, and budget-conscious purchasers looking for value and strong transport links.
Lifestyle, transport & community feel
Chorley offers good amenities and access to countryside, attracting buyers who want affordability without losing quality of life.
Private rents have risen in recent years, signalling ongoing rental demand and investor interest.
For first-time buyers and families, Chorley provides a more accessible route into homeownership.
Market performance & potential
Chorley is one of the faster-moving markets in the North West, with homes selling quickly (average time on market 22 days in May 2025). Strong affordability and demand support its long-term potential.
Parbold / West Lancashire Villages
Typical property prices
West Lancashire’s average house price in September 2025 was £238,000 (up 3.4% year-on-year).
The area offers a mix of detached, semi-detached, terraced homes, and smaller properties, giving buyers flexibility.
What type of buyers it attracts
Villages like Parbold attract families, commuters, and those wanting semi-rural or rural settings. They suit buyers upgrading from city living to more space and community feel.
Lifestyle, transport & community feel
Parbold and nearby villages offer green surroundings, countryside access, and a quieter pace without feeling remote.
Transport links across West Lancashire make commuting practical while maintaining rural charm.
Strong community feel attracts long-term buyers and families.
Market performance & potential
With rising demand for semi-rural living and moderate prices, Parbold and similar villages may see sustained interest and stable long-term growth.
Other Noteworthy Areas & Commuter Belts
The North West overall recorded some of the highest house-price inflation across English regions in early 2025.
Regional average sold price over the last 12 months was around £259,170.
Affordability and demand make commuter belts and satellite towns worth watching for first-time buyers and long-term investors.
How to Choose the Right Area in 2026: Budget, Lifestyle & Goals
Selecting the right area depends heavily on what you value and need from your home. Here’s a quick guide:
Your Priority |
Recommended Area Types |
| Coastal lifestyle or retirement / downsizing near amenities | Southport |
| Commuter-friendly, semi-rural charm, good schools | Ormskirk / West Lancashire villages (e.g., Parbold) |
| Budget-friendly starter homes or investment potential | Chorley / smaller towns / commuter belts |
| Balance of affordability and rural/semi-rural living | Villages in West Lancashire, towns around Manchester or Liverpool |
Key questions to ask before buying:
What is my budget now, and in 5–10 years?
Do I prioritise commuting convenience, schools, lifestyle or investment return?
Am I looking for a long-term home or a stepping stone?
How important is community feel, amenities, and green space for me or my family?
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Conclusion
If you’re wondering “where should I buy a home in 2026 in the North West”, now is a good time to act — but choosing strategically matters. Areas like Southport, Ormskirk, Chorley, Parbold and other commuter-belt or semi-rural towns offer a mix of affordability, lifestyle and growth potential.
Your ideal area will depend on your budget and goals, but the North West remains one of the strongest regions for value and long-term potential in 2026.
Arnold & Phillips can help you choose the right location — from discussing area benefits to guiding your next steps. Get in touch today or visit one of our offices.
