High-earning individuals looking for quality schools and beautiful surroundings are driving property prices up in some of the UK’s most desirable towns.

Savills’ Findings

The Telegraph engaged Savills estate agents to sift through the latest census data and determine which towns rank highest based on several factors: the percentage of residents with managerial roles, their educational qualifications, health status, and housing costs.

Regional Analysis – A significant number of these sought-after towns are located in the South East, reflecting London’s role in generating wealth. Notably, Harpenden tops the list, and every town from this region is within an hour’s commute to London. However, the list also features towns outside the South East, such as Wilmslow in Cheshire, which has moved up 10 spots since the 2011 census.

Climbers & New Entries – Some towns and cities have risen significantly in the rankings since the previous census. For example, Cheadle Hulme jumped from 43rd to 26th. New entrants to the top 50 include Hurstpierpoint, Hitchin, and Bath, with Chigwell making the most significant leap from 69th to 32nd.

What Makes These Towns Stand Out? – Lucian Cook from Savills highlights that these aren’t mere vacation spots – “It’s worth noting that these locations are not second-home hotspots. They are aspirational, ­affluent places that attract incoming wealth with good schools and a strong quality of housing stock where residents are economically active who are building up their property and personal wealth.”

A Glimpse of the Top 10 Desirable Towns:

1. Harpenden, Herts: £766,000 average price. Known for its well-educated populace and excellent connectivity.
2. Cobham, Surrey: £1.17m average. Renowned for its riverside community and lively café culture.
3. Beaconsfield, Bucks: £1.07m average. Thriving high street, quality schools, and connectivity.
4. Chorleywood, Bucks: £1.1m average. Popular for fast access to the city and top grammar schools.
5. Amersham, Bucks: £800,000 average. Boasts a blend of a bustling market town and serene countryside.
6. Hale, Trafford: £699,999 average. A family-friendly suburb with an excellent educational system.
7. Esher, Surrey: £767,750 average. Offers a lively ambiance.
8. Gerrards Cross, Bucks: £917,500 average. Known for its picturesque setting and proximity to major film studios.
9. Berkhamsted, Herts: £630,000 average. Offers a mix of rural charm and excellent transport links.
10. St Albans, Herts: £570,000 average. A blend of rich local business presence and a large open green space. … And the list continues to highlight areas such as Cambridge, Henley-on-Thames, and Altrincham.

Overall, this list paints a comprehensive picture of Britain’s top towns for prospective property investors and homeowners. The recurring themes across these towns are their good schools, connectivity, and quality of life, making them prime locations for property investments.