Discover if your desired destination ranks among the UK's top 10 most sought-after counties...
Bird & Co has uncovered the UK’s most sought-after locations, having analysed June 2021 net internal migration figures from the Office of National Statistics, which were released recently, in December 2022.
Within each region, net internal migration figures - showing the inflow of people moving to the region minus the outflow - were compared. This revealed a list of the top 10 most popular counties where UK citizens moved to the most that year.
The findings highlighted a significant decrease in net migration across England and Wales, indicating people are moving around the country much less than the previous year. In comparison to the previous year, the top 10 counties and their net migration figures were:
- Hampshire, 3,636
- North Yorkshire, 2,882
- Suffolk, 2,663
- Devon 2,602
- Derbyshire, 2,570
- Norfolk, 2,496
- West Sussex, 2,353
- Warwickshire, 2,112
- Dorset , 2,106
- Cornwall, 2,032
Somewhat surprisingly, Hampshire and North Yorkshire secured first and second place as the most popular counties for UK citizens to move to. This reflects a clear pattern in homeowners looking for a more rural and peaceful lifestyle, away from bustling urban areas; a pattern which has continued from the previous year.
However, in earlier years where the South West coast served as the top locale of choice, more popular areas now include spots like Suffolk and Hampshire, as well as the North. In fact, North Yorkshire is a new contender to the top 10 most sought-after counties list.
The majority of the top ten counties have witnessed a much lower influx this year of more than 50% in their net migration figures. In fact, total net migration across Metropolitan Counties, Unitary Authorities and Counties was 93,956 in 2020 compared to 27,400 in 2021; a decrease of over 70%.
This decrease could potentially be attributed to factors such as inflation, cost-of-living, and higher mortgage rates. On top of this, many people moved during the year of Covid due to the huge change in lifestyle so, compared to this outlier of a year, 2021 is very different.
If you're considering a move or take pride in your hometown, keep reading to discover the most sought-after counties in the UK this year.
1.Hampshire
- Net internal migration: 3,636
- Average house price: £429,579
- Migration age: Generally below 35, although some outliers, including Havant at 45-49 and New Forest at 65-69
Hampshire, renowned for its stunning coastline and rich historical landscape, has become the leading region for migration in the UK. Last year, it held the third spot, but it has now soared to claim the coveted first position.
The place is a treasure trove of wonders, with three ancient cities, two national parks, and endless stretches of coastline. Interestingly, it seems like people of all ages are drawn to this place, with the elder population settling in the peaceful New Forest and the younger crowd flocking to vibrant Winchester.
2.North Yorkshire
- Net internal migration: 2,882
- Average house price: £233,495
- Migration age: Mainly 20-24, with 50-59 coming second place
Newcomer to the top 10 list, North Yorkshire, takes second place, having previously not made the top 10 over recent years. The county is the largest in England by land area, encompassing around 40% of its land with magnificent national parks. Notably, the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North York Moors National Park dominate the region, offering charming small villages, captivating scenery, and expansive meadows.
3.Suffolk
- Net internal migration: 2,663
- Average house price: £341,601
- Migration age: Largely 20-24, with 50-59 taking second place
Suffolk has also emerged as a newcomer in the ranking, previously not making its way into the top ten. Along the county’s coastline, you'll find sandy and gravel beaches, dramatic cliffs, and estuaries that serve as havens for rare bird species. The open fields and rich farming heritage further add to the charm of the area, making it a delightful blend of stunning coastline and captivating landscapes.
4.Devon
- Net internal migration: 2,602
- Average house price: £344,360
- Migration age: Mainly above 50, although some outliers, including Exeter at 15-19. Notably, the main age brackets that move to Devon comprise of 35-39, 55-59 and 60–64year-olds, a statistic that is considerably higher than that of other regions.
Devon, which secured the top spot last year, has now slipped down to fourth place in the rankings. However, the county has done considerably better than its coastal neighbour, Cornwall. These findings indicate that middle-aged homeowners are increasingly drawn to the region, either seeking to downsize or retire.
Devon boasts a diverse terrain, characterised by hilly landscapes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and picturesque sandy shores. It holds the distinction of being the only English county with two separate coastlines, with the English Channel to the south and the Irish Sea and Bristol Channel to the north.
5.Derbyshire
- Net internal migration: 2,570
- Average house price: £242,690
- Migration age: Largely 20-24, although some districts with more migration from those in their 30s
Home to the Peak District and breath-taking Derbyshire Dales, Derbyshire has climbed one spot in the rankings since the previous year. The county is characterised by its picturesque hills and uplands, creating a captivating landscape. Additionally, Derbyshire holds historical significance as the setting for the renowned novel, Pride and Prejudice.
6.Norfolk
- Net internal migration: 2,496
- Average house price: £314,231
- Migration age: Mainly 20-24, but overall, quite mixed
Norfolk has experienced a decline in its ranking, slipping from second place to sixth in the overall standings. The county offers a peaceful ambiance, with its vast stretches of farmland, enchanting forests, and expansive heathlands. Moreover, Norfolk is renowned for its diverse wildlife and charming seaside communities.
Norfolk showcases a contrasting range of age demographics, with South Norfolk being predominantly inhabited by a younger population, mainly in the age group of 20 to 24 years, while the North of Norfolk sees a higher population of individuals aged 60 to 64 years.
7.West Sussex
- Net internal migration: 2,353
- Average house price: £498,117
- Migration age: Mainly below 40, although one outlier, including Arun at 65-69
Having climbed up the rankings from 10th place to 7th, West Sussex encompasses both the stunning coastline and the South Downs National Park. It offers a diverse landscape, ranging from rolling hills and picturesque harbours, to fertile farmland and vibrant market towns.
8.Warwickshire
- Net internal migration: 2,112
- Average house price: £317,021
- Migration age: Mainly 20-24
Warwickshire, known for its strong connections to Shakespeare, is like a time capsule of history with its theatres, cobbled streets, romantic canals, and impressive medieval Cathedral and Castle. However, despite its rich history and quaint features, Warwickshire has also experienced a slight decline in the rankings, going down one place.
Surprisingly, this county doesn't seem to attract a large population of retirees, and stands out as the only county with a predominant age group of 20–24-year-olds.
9.Dorset
- Net internal migration: 2,106
- Average house price: £422,508
- Migration age: Mainly 60-64 with 55-59 coming a close second
Dorset, a fresh face in this year's line-up, takes 9th place in the most sought-after locations. The county is most famous for its iconic limestone arch known as Durdle Door. Dorset presents an enchanting combination of countryside and coastline, boasting picturesque beaches, towering cliffs, and idyllic scenery.
10.Cornwall
- Net internal migration: 2,032
- Average house price: £365,406
- Migration age: 70-74
Cornwall has experienced a slight decline in the rankings, moving down one spot. The county’s main attraction lies in its sandy beaches, picturesque countryside, and quaint villages. The region is also dotted with scenic coves and home to many high cliffs, creating a stunning coastal landscape
Given that the main age group falls between 70 and 74, it's clear that Cornwall is a favoured destination among those seeking retirement and an opportunity to unwind.
Looking to Relocate?
Whether you're contemplating a move, or you’re content with your current location, hopefully this list has helped you decide where you’d like to live in the UK.
As the population continues to grow and house prices experience a decline, it might just be the right time to jump on the property ladder. So, if you've been thinking about owning your own place, now's your chance to make it happen!
For more conveyancing advice about how to make the process of buying and selling a property smooth and efficient, visit Bird & Co’s website or call 01476 372 038.
Data Sources:
- Internal Migration from Office for National Statistics
- House Prices from Rightmove
- Internal Migration Age Brackets from the Office for National Statistics
Methodology:
The data presented in this article has been sourced from the Office National Statistics and Rightmove. The figures used in this study are as up to date as possible and have been generally taken from official documents published in 2021 and 2022.
While there may be slight variations in the time frames between sources, the publication dates for each independent data source can be found via the links above.
Although this data was sourced via reputable sources, its interpretations are of the Bird and Co researchers.