New research from home moving comparison site reallymoving has identified the most affordable locations for first-time buyers in 2026, highlighting areas where buyers can access the largest share of homes within their budget.
The analysis, based on reallymoving’s Home Affordability Map, identifies towns and cities where the average regional first-time buyer budget stretches furthest when purchasing a two-bedroom property.
The tool examines locations within a 60-minute commute of major towns and cities, revealing significant differences in affordability across the UK.
The findings show that in several areas buyers can afford more than 90% of two-bedroom homes currently on the market.
REGIONAL DIFFERENCES
In Yorkshire and Humber, Grimsby tops the affordability rankings, with 99% of two-bedroom properties available within the average first-time buyer budget of £154,000. Burnley and Anfield in the North West also rank highly, with 98% of available homes falling within budget.
Scotland’s Greenock (99%), Middlesbrough in the North East (96%) and Tonypandy in South Wales (94%) were also identified as key affordability hotspots.
Even in traditionally expensive regions, pockets of affordability remain. In London, Erith emerged as the most accessible location, with 92% of two-bedroom homes available within the average first-time buyer budget of £426,000. Barking followed at 90%, while Belvedere ranked third at 89%.
LOCALISED AFFORDABILITY
Rob Houghton (main picture, inset), Founder and Chief Executive Officer of reallymoving, says: “With affordability stretched and mortgage rates still high, many first-time buyers assume they have been priced out of the market altogether.
“However, affordability is often far more localised than people realise.
“By expanding their search area slightly and focusing on locations where there is greater choice within budget, buyers may find far more opportunities than they expected.
“In the current market, where increased supply is giving buyers greater negotiating power, understanding where affordability exists can make all the difference.”
