New research from over-50s property specialists Regency Living has revealed that the cost of owning a beach hut has soared by as much as 100% in some of England’s most desirable coastal locations reflecting the wider pressures facing buyers in these markets.
The study shows that the average house price in West Sussex – home to seaside towns including West Wittering, Bognor Regis and Worthing – now stands at £373,743, a premium of 32.7% against the UK average of £268,652.
Other counties have seen similar rises, with Hampshire 30.5% above the national average, Essex 30.2% higher and Kent, Dorset and East Sussex commanding premiums of 25.8%, 20.5% and 19.6% respectively.
Demand for seaside property is now so strong that even beach huts, where overnight stays are prohibited, are commanding five-figure price tags.
SEA BREEZE
In West Sussex, the average price of a beach hut has climbed 102.1% in just three years to £33,044, while Dorset’s average beach hut price has reached £102,451 following a 66.3% rise since 2022. Prices in Essex (£45,878), Kent (£43,661), Hampshire (£32,655) and East Sussex (£30,784) have also surged.
Tim Simmons, Sales & Marketing Director at Regency Living, says: “For many retirees and silver downsizers, the dream of living by the sea is starting to feel completely out of reach, with traditional homes in coastal counties commanding premiums of more than 30%.
“With even beach huts now commanding five-figure price tags, it’s no surprise that more buyers are seeking smarter alternatives.
“Park homes are becoming the solution of choice for those who want the benefits of coastal living without the burdens of sky-high property prices or a new mortgage.
“They offer high-quality, low-maintenance homes in safe, close-knit communities at a fraction of the cost of bricks-and-mortar properties. Crucially, they also allow buyers to free up capital, meaning more money to actually enjoy retirement, rather than just fund it.”
