The 10 Most Expensive Places To Buy A Property In The UK
- Expat Property Investments Ltd
- Sep 2, 2025
- 4 min read
When people think of UK property investment, “expensive” almost always means “London.” While that’s partly true, there are also outer boroughs and commuter belt hotspots that carry hefty price tags.
For British expats and non-UK residents, understanding where the UK’s property market peaks gives context: these are the areas that command the highest purchase costs and, often, the lowest rental yields.
In this article, we'll break down the 10 most expensive areas to buy property in the UK (as of May 2025 due to government data lag), with average house prices, estimated 25% deposits if you were to purchase a property in this areas on a BTL mortgage, and what these numbers mean for investors abroad.
If you're thinking of investing in UK property for the first time, or growing your existing portfolio let our UK property experts guide you through the process. Chat with them here.
10. St Albans: £628,000
Estimated BTL deposit (25%): £157,000
St Albans is a historic cathedral city just north of London, popular with commuters. It combines charm and excellent schools with fast train links to St Pancras. For investors, yields can be modest, but the city offers reliable long-term capital appreciation.
9. Haringey: £636,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £159,000
North London’s Haringey is diverse, with popular areas like Muswell Hill and Crouch End. Prices reflect proximity to central London and strong demand from families and young professionals.
8. Islington: £693,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £173,000
Trendy, central, and well-connected, Islington appeals to professionals working in the City and media sectors. Rental demand is high, but yields are squeezed by the area’s premium pricing.
7. Wandsworth: £718,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £180,000
One of South London’s most popular boroughs, Wandsworth balances riverside developments with leafy residential streets. A long-standing favourite for young professionals and families, it offers strong tenant demand.
6. Elmbridge: £743,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £186,000
Known as part of the “Surrey stockbroker belt,” Elmbridge attracts wealthy London commuters. Big homes, green space, and excellent schools drive demand here. Rental demand exists but is very family-focused.
5. Hammersmith & Fulham: £785,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £196,000
This West London borough blends riverside living with proximity to central London. It’s home to young professionals, affluent families, and expats, particularly in areas like Fulham Broadway and Parsons Green.
4. Richmond upon Thames: £790,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £198,000
Richmond is consistently ranked as one of London’s most desirable boroughs. With vast green spaces, top schools, and excellent transport, it attracts families seeking space while staying connected to the capital.
3. Camden: £872,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £218,000
From the iconic Camden Market to elegant Hampstead, this borough combines culture with prestige. Prices are steep, and while rental yields are relatively low, demand remains strong from both professionals and international tenants.
2. City of Westminster – £1,009,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £252,000
The political and cultural heart of London, Westminster includes areas like Pimlico, St John’s Wood, and Mayfair. These addresses carry global prestige. Investors typically buy for capital preservation rather than yield.
1. Kensington & Chelsea – £1,415,000
Estimated BTL deposit: £354,000
The UK’s most expensive borough is synonymous with luxury. With addresses like Knightsbridge and Notting Hill, it attracts global investors seeking security, exclusivity, and prestige. Yields are low, but demand from ultra-wealthy buyers remains consistent.
Summary
Rank | Area | Avg Price | BTL Deposit (25%) |
10 | St Albans | £628k | £157k |
9 | Haringey | £636k | £159k |
8 | Islington | £693k | £173k |
7 | Wandsworth | £718k | £180k |
6 | Elmbridge | £743k | £186k |
5 | Hammersmith & Fulham | £785k | £196k |
4 | Richmond upon Thames | £790k | £198k |
3 | Camden | £872k | £218k |
2 | City of Westminster | £1.009m | £252k |
1 | Kensington & Chelsea | £1.415m | £354k |
What This Means for Non-UK Resident Investors
Capital vs Yield: These expensive locations are prestige markets. They’re better suited for wealth preservation and long-term appreciation than for strong rental yields. If you're looking to replace a salary with rental income, you're better off focusing on the Midlands, North of England, Wales & Scotland.
Entry Cost: Deposits range from ~£157k in St Albans to over £350k in Kensington & Chelsea. These are substantial sums for any investor, especially when you'll probably need to top up the monthly mortgage payments out of your own pocket.
Alternatives: Many British expat and non-UK national investors I work with prefer to target higher-yielding cities (e.g. Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool) while keeping London exposure limited. However, this is not to say that these high-value locations don't work.
Next Steps for You
If you’re an expat or non-UK resident looking to invest in UK property, we're here to help you with our:
Property Sourcing Service: Bespoke hands-off sourcing across the UK.
One-Off Consultations: Book a one-off consulting session to discuss strategy, locations, and anything else.
Existing UK Portfolio Audits: Already invested? Let’s stress-test your holdings and see how we can grow your income from your current portfolio, with some simple changes.
DIY Mentoring Program: For those who want to learn how to do it themselves with an expert holding their hand through the process.
Explore our other articles, like Freehold vs Leasehold: What Every Investor Needs to Know and The 10 Cheapest Places to Buy in the UK, to balance your view of the market.
Want to discuss how we can help you start or grow your UK property portfolio? Reach out via the Contact Us page.
Comments