Why Coastal Relocations Will Surge Again in 2026: Complete Guide for UK Home Buyers

Across the UK, search volumes for phrases such as "move to the coast", "best coastal towns to live", and "coastal house prices 2026" have increased considerably, while estate and lettings agents in northern coastal areas have reported stronger buyer and tenant activity. According to the ONS, coastal regions offering a balance of housing affordability, walkability, access to nature and improving transport links remain some of the most attractive destinations for relocators leaving higher-cost cities.

Our latest comprehensive guide explores why coastal relocations are set to surge again in 2026 - and why areas like Morecambe, Blackpool and Barrow-in-Furness are among the best-placed to benefit.

The Return of Coastal Living: What's Driving the Trend?

The UK coastal property market has historically been cyclical, with demand surging during certain economic and societal phases. In 2026, several converging factors are pushing relocators back to seaside towns.

1. Lifestyle Priorities Have Shifted Permanently

Since the pandemic period, preferences for outdoor space, calmer environments and better quality of life have remained strong. Coastal towns offer:

• Easier access to nature and beaches
• Lower population density compared to large cities
• Vibrant regeneration and cultural investment
• Improved wellbeing due to proximity to blue space (supported by government wellbeing studies)

As buyers place greater emphasis on health, work-life balance and long-term sustainability, many coastal locations now outperform former urban hotspots in buyer satisfaction surveys.

2. Hybrid Working Has Normalised

Although office attendance has risen slightly since 2023, hybrid working remains the dominant UK work pattern. Research from the CIPD indicates that over 60% of employers now offer long-term flexible arrangements.

This means relocators no longer need to remain within close commuting distance of major employment hubs. Towns like Morecambe, Blackpool and Barrow - each offering broadband improvements and strong regional connectivity - are benefiting from remote and hybrid professionals seeking more space for their money.

3. Affordability Constraints in Southern England

With average property prices still significantly higher in the South East and London, many buyers are seeking better value further north. The North West coastline continues to provide:

• Lower entry points for first-time buyers
• Larger homes for the same budget
• Better long-term growth potential due to regeneration

For comparison, the average coastal property in the North West remains less than half the average price of properties within one hour of London, according to UK Finance and ONS datasets.

4. Regeneration and Infrastructure Investment

Coastal regeneration has accelerated across the UK, but nowhere more than in Lancashire and Cumbria. Improvements include:

• Seafront redevelopments
• New leisure and cultural facilities
• Transport infrastructure upgrades
• Renewable energy investment (significant around Barrow)

These upgrades contribute to stronger local economies and future-proof the appeal of seaside towns for relocators.

Why the North West Coast Will See the Strongest Demand in 2026

The North West benefits from a unique combination of affordability, connectivity, employment opportunity and regeneration funding. Below is a closer look at why Morecambe, Blackpool and Barrow are among the top anticipated hotspots.

Morecambe: A Coastal Town on the Rise

Morecambe has rapidly gained national attention thanks to the proposed Eden Project Morecambe, a transformational eco-attraction backed by multi-million-pound investment.

Key strengths include:

• Competitive house prices compared to regional averages
• Strong arts and cultural scene
• Excellent views of the Bay and Lake District
• Close proximity to Lancaster, a major employment and education hub

Visit the branch page: Morecambe Branch

Blackpool: Regeneration and Renewed Popularity

Blackpool is undergoing one of the largest regeneration programmes in the North of England, including:

• New hotels and leisure redevelopment
• Town centre investment
• Upgraded tram and transport routes

The town is attracting relocators seeking coastal living with excellent amenities, a strong community, and competitive pricing.

Visit the branch page: Blackpool Branch

Barrow-in-Furness: Employment Growth and Coastal Value

Barrow's unique blend of coastline and industry has created a stable property market less affected by national fluctuations. Major drivers include:

• High-value engineering and defence employment
• Access to the Cumbrian coast and the Lakes
• Strong rental demand for professionals

Local properties often provide considerably more space for the same budget compared to inland towns.

Visit the branch page: Barrow Branch

Explore in more detail: Why North West Coastal Towns Are Great Places to Live.

Who Is Moving to the Coast in 2026?

The demand is coming from several buyer groups:

• Hybrid workers seeking space and value
• Early retirees attracted to quieter living
• Families wanting better lifestyle and outdoor access
• Investors targeting strong yields
• First-time buyers priced out of large cities

Estate agents expect this demographic mix to continue shaping coastal market activity throughout 2026.

How Coastal Property Prices Are Expected to Move in 2026

According to forecasts from UK property analysts and trends observed across Farrell Heyworth branches, we expect:

• Moderate price growth in well-connected and regenerated towns
• Higher rental demand in employment-driven coastal areas
• Increased competition for 3–4 bedroom family homes near the sea
• Continued affordability appeal compared to inland towns and southern regions

For wider market expectations, see our guide: UK Property Market Forecast for 2026

Is Now the Right Time to Move to the Coast?

Buyers considering a coastal relocation in 2026 should assess:

• Local employment opportunities
• Transport connections
• Future regeneration plans
• Proximity to schools, healthcare and amenities
• Seasonal market variations

Coastal areas with ongoing investment - such as Morecambe, Blackpool and Barrow - are likely to see sustained demand for both sales and lettings.

Your Next Steps: Speak to a Local Coastal Property Expert

If you're considering a move to the coast in 2026, our local branches can provide expert guidance on the best areas, pricing trends and available homes. Each coastal market is unique, and local insight is crucial to making the right decision.

Connect with your nearest branch:

• Morecambe
• Blackpool
• Barrow-in-Furness

Further Reading & Useful Resources

Government & Research

• ONS: Population & Housing Trends
• Government Research: Wellbeing & Outdoor Space
• CIPD Hybrid Working Report

Farrell Heyworth Guides

• Why North West Coastal Towns Are Great Places to Live
• UK Property Market Forecast 2026

Local Insight & Planning

• Lancaster City Council
• Blackpool Council
• Cumbria Council

About the Author

Laura Gittins is the PR & Marketing Manager at Farrell Heyworth, specialising in market commentary, regional housing insights and consumer guidance. Laura works closely with internal teams and industry partners to deliver trusted updates on the North West property market. Connect with her on LinkedIn.