With the UK cost of living still a major concern for many households, more people are asking a simple question: where can you actually afford to live comfortably in the UK right now? The good news is that while cities like London, Oxford, and Cambridge remain expensive, there are still plenty of places across the ... Cheapest Places to Live in the UK Right Now (2026 Guide)
With the UK cost of living still a major concern for many households, more people are asking a simple question: where can you actually afford to live comfortably in the UK right now?
The good news is that while cities like London, Oxford, and Cambridge remain expensive, there are still plenty of places across the country where your money goes much further.
In this guide, we’ll break down some of the cheapest places to live in the UK in 2026, based on housing costs, rent, and overall affordability.
Before diving into the list, it’s worth understanding why certain areas are more affordable.
In general:
For example, the North East consistently ranks as the cheapest region for rent, with significantly lower monthly costs than southern England.
Burnley regularly tops the list of the cheapest places to live in the UK.
This Lancashire town offers a mix of low living costs and decent transport links to Manchester and Leeds.
It’s ideal for first-time buyers, remote workers, or anyone looking to cut costs without leaving England entirely.
Sunderland is one of the most affordable cities in the UK.
It also benefits from good transport links to Newcastle, making it a practical option for commuters.
Middlesbrough is often ranked among the cheapest cities in the UK.
While job opportunities can be more limited than in bigger cities, the low cost of living makes it attractive for buyers and renters alike.
If you want cheap coastal living, Hartlepool is hard to beat.
It’s a great option for those who want affordability without giving up access to the coast.
Kingston upon Hull (Hull) is one of the cheapest cities for renters.
Hull has been gaining popularity thanks to regeneration and improved amenities, while still remaining affordable.
County Durham offers a balance of affordability and quality of life.
It’s particularly popular with families and retirees looking for space and lower costs.
Shildon has recently been named one of the most affordable towns in the UK.
In fact, buyers may only need a relatively modest income to afford a home here, making it one of the most accessible housing markets in the country.
If you’re serious about saving money in the UK, a clear pattern emerges:
Choosing one of the cheapest places to live in the UK can make a huge difference financially—but it’s not just about cost.
You’ll also need to consider:
For many people, the trade-off is worth it—especially if remote work gives you more flexibility.
While the UK cost of living remains high overall, there are still plenty of places where you can live comfortably without stretching your budget.
Towns like Burnley, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough prove that affordable living in the UK is still possible—you just need to know where to look.
Whether you’re trying to save money, buy your first home, or simply escape rising rents, exploring cheaper areas could be one of the smartest moves you make in 2026.
