Postcodes matter. Whether it’s the company insuring your car or the home buyer you hope to impress, this simple jumble of letters and numbers is shorthand for where – and how – you live.
And Britain is bristling with prestige postcodes – areas whose desirability is determined by factors such as location, amenities and the view from the window.
‘Each and every county has its own pockets and corners where house prices are considerably higher than the norm,’ explains Steve Anderson, national franchise director for property experts Yopa. ‘These are real housing market sweet spots that people will pay a hefty premium to be part of.’
So where are Britain’s most expensive postcodes? With help from Yopa, we trawled the map from county to county, crunched the numbers and asked the experts to bring you the ultimate list of the most premium spots on our little isle.
1. Bedfordshire, MK44
Within commuting distance of London , Bedford has a well-heeled town centre with good amenities. Demand exceeds supply when it comes to available properties. Little wonder, then, that average prices are more than £504,000.
The county town of Bedford overlooking the River Ouse
2. Berkshire, SL5
Encompassing Ascot, this stretch of land is renowned for luxury homes and proximity to the famous Ascot Racecourse as well as Sunningdale. ‘Few postcodes are more blue-blooded than SL5,’ says Sam Williams, regional partner at Garrington Property Finders.
Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park are both close by, along with prestigious private schools including Papplewick, Wellington College and Eton. London Road in Ascot has been identified as the most expensive street to rent a property outside London, with average monthly rents of £6,831.
The Long Walk of Windsor Great Park at Windsor Castle
3. Bristol, BS8
A postcode which covers areas such as Clifton and Hotwells – neighbourhoods known for their Georgian architecture, vibrant cultural scene and close proximity to Bristol University. You also have nearby walks in the Downs to Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Georgian houses on Sion Hill , Clifton village, in Bristol
4. Buckinghamshire, HP9
This covers Beaconsfield, where average prices for properties are a cool £1,078,229. ‘In Buckinghamshire alone, there are countless smart postcodes,’ says Helen Rhodes, partner at buying agency Heaton & Partners. ‘Properties in Beaconsfield are particularly expensive due to its village feel with the majority of houses sitting on decent-sized plots – also providing direct links into London.’
5. Cambridgeshire, CB3
‘It’s home to many of the ancient colleges that make up the University of Cambridge – and perhaps the city’s most iconic view of The Backs,’ says Jennifer Mullucks, regional partner at Garrington Property Finders. ‘But the postcode also includes a number of highly desirable residential areas, including Grange Road and Newnham, as well as the pretty village of Grantchester – where the TV series of the same name is set.’
Punting on the River Cam, with King’s College, Cambridge, in the background
6. Edinburgh, EH3
Home to both New Town and the West End area, this postcode is the new number one location for £1million-plus sales in Scotland. Filled with gorgeous Georgian buildings, green spaces and just a short stroll the town centre, it’s no wonder this area is so sought after.
Iconic town houses in Edinburgh
7. Gwynedd, LL53
This postcode takes in the swanky fishing village of Abersoch on the Lyn peninsula and has the highest prices per sq ft in Wales. Often dubbed Cheshire-by-the-sea, it’s a magnet for second homeowners, who are attracted by the Blue Flag beach, sailing club, chi chi shops and views of Snowdonia.
Abersoch harbour beach on the Llyn Peninsula in Wales
8. Leicestershire, LE7
One of Leicestershire’s most affluent areas, LE7 includes charming Rothley village, inhabited since Saxon times and mentioned in the Domesday Book. With a regular supply of houses worth more than £1million, it is one of the most expensive places to live in the East Midlands. According to Home.co.uk, there are currently 28 properties on the market in LE7 for more than £1million.
9. Cumbria, LA23
Taking in the hugely popular tourist hotspots of Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere, this corner of Cumbria combines natural, scenic beauty with premium properties. There’s also the eponymous lake, of course, as well as grassy fells and top-flight shops.
Overlooking Lake Windermere in Cumbria
10. Derbyshire, S32
This postcode covers Peak District villages such as Hathersage, Grindleford and Stoney Middleton.
‘This postcode is a hotspot because it offers great schools, proximity to Sheffield, and a strong sense of community,’ says James Benson of Five Star Cash Offer. ‘It’s the ideal location for those looking for the rural lifestyle but with easy access to city life.’
11. Devon, TQ8
Encompassing scenic coastal town Salcombe, where the average house price is £982,205, it’s no surprise that TQ8 is Devon’s most expensive postcode.
‘Salcombe’s appeal lies in its stunning waterfront views, fantastic local amenities, and top-tier restaurants, making it a favourite for affluent second-home buyers,’ says Shawn Shepherd from Deeds.com. ‘The area offers privacy, but also a vibrant local culture, with independent shops and galleries.’
It also encompasses the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Stunning waterfront views have taken the average price of a house in Salcombe to £982,205,
12. Dorset, BH13
This covers Sandbanks in Poole, beloved of celebrities and consistently identified as one of the UK’s most expensive places to buy property.
‘Sandbanks is incredibly expensive because it offers some of the most sought-after seaside properties in the UK,’ explains James Benson of Five Star Cash Offer. ‘The combination of private beaches, panoramic views of Poole Harbour, and its reputation as an elite location attracts the wealthiest buyers. It’s also known for its high-end amenities, including luxury restaurants, yacht clubs, and leisure activities.’
13. North Wales, LL64
This area includes the popular seaside village of Rhosneigr, located in the south-west of Anglesey, north Wales – a place flooded with second homes and buy-to-lets. Little wonder the average price of a home in the postcode is now £422,799.
Rhosneigr beach on Anglesey, north Wales
14. East Riding of Yorkshire, HU14
The postcode, which includes Willerby and parts of Hessle, is a sought-after location for those looking for a quiet rural life near the city of Hull.
‘What makes this postcode desirable is its peaceful atmosphere, great schools, and excellent transport links to Hull and beyond,’ says Shawn Shepherd from Deeds.com. ‘The area offers a family-friendly vibe with access to well-regarded primary and secondary schools, plus plenty of green spaces and recreational facilities.’
15. East Sussex, BN3
This includes the coastal town of Hove, famed for its fancy seafront, Regency architecture, tree-lined streets and vibrant community.
‘Hove’s popularity is driven by its beachside location, excellent schools, and close access to Brighton’s cultural scene,’ says James Benson of Five Star Cash Offer. ‘It’s perfect for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere but with the benefits of city life nearby. One of the most sought-after places on the south coast.’
The Regency architecture of Brunswick Terrace in Brighton & Hove, Sussex, UK
16. Essex, CM4
Includes the village of Ingatestone which, with its pretty scenery, high street with independent shops, and 16-century Ingatestone Hall, has been highlighted as one of the UK’s best places to live. ‘It’s also well-connected to London, which makes it perfect for commuters,’ says James Benson of Five Star Cash Offer. ‘The village has an independent business-led high street so pulls in families and professionals looking for a quiet, high-quality lifestyle close to the capital. And pushes up the prices.’
17. Gloucestershire, GL19
Including Staunton and Corse, this postcode is the most expensive in the West Midlands region. ‘This area is sought after because it offers the tranquillity of the countryside, excellent schools, and great transport links to the M5 motorway,’ explains Shawn Shepherd from Deeds.com. ‘It’s an ideal location for families looking for a rural retreat, but with all the conveniences of city life within easy reach.’
18. Greater London, W1
Given that this postcode includes Westminster and Mayfair, it’s no surprise that the average property price is a staggering £2,021,694. ‘These areas are expensive for a reason, they offer heritage, exclusivity, and convenience all wrapped into one postcode. From private members’ clubs and flagship designer stores to world-class restaurants, you’re buying far more than bricks and mortar.’ says bespoke estate agent Liam Gretton.
19. Greater Manchester, WA15
This postcode covers Altrincham, Hale, Hale Barns and Timperley, where the average house price – including many impressive period homes – is £604,920. ‘The area oozes quiet wealth,’ says Kelvin Elliot, founder of Property Sale Watchdog. ‘There is a stylish yet undeniable community-focused vibe. Altrincham Grammar Girls and Boys Schools are both high up the league tables, attracting families who prioritise education, village charm, as well as close proximity to Manchester.’
20. Hampshire, SO42
In the heart of the New Forest National Park, this postcode encompasses the villages of Brockenhurst and Beaulieu. Last year, homes in this beauty spot sold for an average of £986,297.
21. Cornwall, PL28
This postcode includes Padstow and St Merryn, where average house prices are £577,048 – thanks to beautiful beaches, scenic views and a generous influx of those sun-seeking second homeowners.
22. County Durham, DH1
Includes Ramside Park, where grand and spacious properties are a popular choice for wealthy families looking for a quiet and secluded place to live and bring up their brood.
23. Herefordshire, HR96
Covering Ross-on-Wye, a town known for its natural beauty and attractions such as Goodrich Castle, the River Wye, and St Mary’s Church, the average property price here is £481,000.
24. Kent, TN13
Taking in the commuter village of Sevenoaks, this postcode offers suburban charm and proximity to London, coupled with green spaces, good schools and a vibrant local community. Its popularity has pushed up house prices, with some properties selling for as much as £1,155,000.
25. Lancashire, L40
This postcode spans Ormskirk, a historic market town offering a blend of rural charm and accessibility to Liverpool, making it attractive for commuters and families.
26. Cheshire, SK9
This postcode includes Alderley Edge and Wilmslow, part of Cheshire’s golden triangle, along with Prestbury. With secluded tree-lined streets, gated homes and seriously blingy property, this is prime Premier League footballer territory. It’s also close to Manchester Airport. Founder of Property Sale Watchdog Kevin Elliot points out that Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge, was recently named the northwest’s most expensive street. Of SK9, he says: ‘[It’s] an easy commute to vibrant Manchester, the postcode in itself carries the same weight as an exclusive brand.’
27. Lincolnshire, LN2
Including villages such as Langtoft, Thurlby and Uffington, this postcode is a peaceful and scenic environment location with open fields, woodlands, and waterways – as well as good rail connections to major cities.
28. Merseyside, CH60
Including the smart area of Heswall on the Wirral Peninsula, bespoke estate agent Liam Gretton says that it’s the lifestyle, location and panoramic views over the Dee Estuary that attracts affluent buyers to this postcode. ‘Heswall offers a semi-rural feel while still being well-connected to Liverpool, Chester and the wider region in addition to connections to Ireland. Professionals, downsizers and returning families often compete for a limited number of standout homes.’
29. Norfolk, NR25
This postcode includes Blakeney, where coastal charm meets high-end homes with quaint flint cottages, a guildhall and cobblestone streets.
30. North Somerset, BS21
Not least thanks to Tickenham, a village which offers a blend of rural charm and accessibility, this area is known for attracting deep-pocketed buyers who want to be part of a close community. The postcode even has its own parish council, which has been in existence for nearly 100 years.
31. North Yorkshire, HG2
Encompassing the elegant spa town of Harrogate, this postcode is brimming with boutique shopping and high-end dining. In fact, it’s often considered the most expensive place to live in the north of England.
32. Northamptonshire, NN4
This postcode includes Collingtree – an area known for its golf course, historic centre and luxury homes. The average house price is around £558,868, while some streets, like Belfry Lane, average more than £1 million, making it one of the most expensive areas in Northampton.
33. Northumberland, NE20
Beloved of affluent residents, including Newcastle United players, this postcode includes Ponteland – where one of the UK’s most expensive streets, Runnymede Road (average house price £1.8m), is located. NE20 also boasts a vibrant high street with boutique shops and restaurants.
34. Nottinghamshire, NG23
This postcode includes Newark, a picturesque town on the River Trent, known for its historical significance – with a 12th-century riverside castle – and antiques fairs. Average property prices are around £430,019, though houses are also known to sell for far more.
35. Oxfordshire, RG9
This area, which includes Henley-on-Thames, is known for its historic charm, stunning riverside homes, and the world-renowned Henley Royal Regatta. The average property price sits at around £751,463.
36. Rutland, LE15
Covering the village of Exton with its stone facades, neat rows of thatched cottages, and a lovely village green, this is quintessential Cotswolds. That said, this being the sought-after county of Rutland, property values are higher here than elsewhere.
37. Aberdeenshire, AB15
This encompasses affluent areas such as Cults, Bieldside, and Milltimber, where the suburbs are renowned for their spacious detached homes, excellent schools, and proximity to Aberdeen city centre.
38. Angus, DD5
This postcode includes Monifieth, a small coastal town on the north shore of the Firth of Tay, just a few miles east of Broughty Ferry. According to recent data, Monifieth boasts an average property price of £242,068, making it the priciest area within Angus.
39. Stirling, FK9
Just three miles from central Stirling, this postcode covers former spa town, Bridge of Allan – first popular during the 19th century when it attracted the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson and Charles Dickens. While visitors no longer come to take the town’s healing waters, its compelling location, handsome Victorian villas and good quality of life saw it perform highly in all four of the categories that determine the overall Scottish ranking.
40. South Yorkshire, S17
This is the southwestern area of Sheffield, encompassing districts like Bradway, Dore, and Totley. Indeed, Dore Road in Sheffield, is often referred to as a ‘millionaires’ village’ due to its high average house prices, with one property selling for £2.85 million in 2022. Other factors contributing to the area’s high costs include its proximity to green spaces, good schools, and a strong sense of community.
41. Staffordshire, WS7
Made up of quaint villages and towns with beautiful surroundings, Burntwood North East and Longdon are two of the most affluent places in this postcode.
42. Suffolk, IP18
This postcode includes the historic town of Walberswick, which sits at the mouth of the River Blyth. Due to high house prices (averaging over £1,500,000), and a tranquil, dog-friendly beach (where the annual British Open Crabbing Championship was once hosted), this is considered one of Britain’s poshest villages.
43. Surrey, GU25
Spanning the leafy town of Virginia Water, this postcode is renowned for its stunning (though manmade) lake, on the southern edge of Windsor Great Park. Excellent schools and family-friendly amenities as well as close proximity to London make it especially attractive, although you will need deep pockets; houses carry an average price of £1.8 million.
44. West Midlands, B15
With large houses, leafy roads and a feeling of bookish calm, this postcode – which includes Edgbaston, where Birmingham University is located – is one of the most prestigious areas in Britain’s second biggest city.
45. West Sussex, BN18
This includes Arundel, which, with its medieval castle, winding river and glut of Georgian houses appears to be the fairytale place to live. Little wonder properties sell for up to £2,400,000.
46. West Yorkshire, LS22
The market town of Wetherby on the River Wharfe is covered by this postcode, within the golden triangle of Leeds, Harrogate and York. Wetherby Bridge and the Wetherby Racecourse all add to its appeal.
47. Wiltshire, BA11
This postcode covers the picture-postcard village of Biddeston – often cited as one of the best places to live in Willtshire, with its Cotswold-stone houses and cottages, charming village green and well-stocked duck pond.
48. Worcestershire, WR7
Surrounded by rolling hills and covering Inkberrow and Wychavon, this scenic spot is thought to be the model for Ambridge, the fictional setting of BBC Radio 4’s The Archers.
49. Gloucestershire, GL9
Including Badminton, this postcode is ‘known for its equestrian connections’ says Garrington Property Finders’ Cotswolds specialist Alexandra Watkins, with average property prices sitting at around £1.47 million.
50. Shropshire, SY9
This postcode encompasses the small market town of Bishops Castle, and while the castle itself no longer exists (save for a small selection of wall), David Lewis, regional partner at Garrington Property Finders, says this is ‘a beautiful area popular with fans of horses and country walks… The prestigious Shrewsbury School is within reach for day pupils, and the historic town of Ludlow – a medieval gem set in green fields -is just half an hour away.’
51. Isle of Wight, PO35
On the easternmost point of the island, this includes the village of Bembridge, known for its harbour, beaches and maritime history, as well as Bembridge Duver – providing a unique mix of sandy dunes and salt marshes.
52. Hertfordshire, WD7
Includes Radlett and Shenley – classic home county terrain beloved of celebrities and where the average house prices are £987,250. Part of the allure is the quaint country feel.
