Manchester is one of the most exciting cities in the UK, offering a mix of culture, jobs, and modern city life. But if you’re looking to buy a home here, the big question is — where can you find the cheapest houses in Manchester?
In this article, we’ll walk you through five affordable places to buy a house in Greater Manchester. We’ll also show you how these areas compare to the most expensive ones, so you can see what fits your budget best.
Let’s explore!
Overview: Cheapest Areas to Buy a House in Manchester
Here is a quick look at the most affordable places in Manchester, based on average house prices in 2025:
| Rank | Area | Average House Price | Annual Price Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rochdale | £178,500 | 2.0% |
| 2 | Bolton | £179,000 | 2.3% |
| 3 | Wigan | £179,000 | 2.7% |
| 4 | Oldham | £188,000 | 2.2% |
| 5 | Tameside | £195,000 | 2.8% |
1. Rochdale – £178,500 (Cheapest Area)
Rochdale tops the list with the lowest average house price of £178,500. The area has seen steady growth of 2.0% this year.
What makes Rochdale popular:
- Easy travel to Manchester via Metrolink.
- Near the beautiful Pennines for outdoor lovers.
- Mix of urban life and natural beauty.
👉 Example: A 4-bedroom terraced house recently sold for £315,000 in central Rochdale.
2. Bolton – £179,000
Bolton is a busy and growing town just a short drive from Manchester. The average house price is £179,000, with a 2.3% increase in 2025.
Why people like Bolton:
- Strong transport links via train and motorway.
- Good schools and friendly communities.
- A blend of modern and traditional homes.
👉 Example: A 3-bedroom detached home is available around £285,000.
3. Wigan – £179,000
Wigan is tied with Bolton for price, but is growing slightly faster at 2.7% this year. It’s becoming a new favorite for first-time buyers.
What’s great about Wigan:
- Ideal for commuters — between Manchester and Liverpool.
- Parks, schools, and family-friendly communities.
- More space for your money.
👉 Example: A 2-bed cottage in Orrell, Wigan, is listed for just £165,000.
4. Oldham – £188,000
Oldham is just northeast of Manchester and sits near the beautiful Peak District. It’s great for people who want a balance of city and nature.
Key features of Oldham:
- Well-connected by tram (Metrolink).
- A mix of older mill houses and new builds.
- Smaller towns like Royton and Shaw offer peace and charm.
👉 Example: A 3-bed semi-detached home in Royton is going for around £200,000.
5. Tameside – £195,000
Tameside is a rising area east of Manchester, with an average house price of £195,000 and the highest growth on our list at 2.8%.
Why Tameside is becoming popular:
- Close to nature (near Pennines).
- Good access to the city (especially Ashton-under-Lyne).
- Lots of new housing developments.
👉 Example: A modern 3-bed home in Ashton-under-Lyne is available for £170,000.
Most Expensive Areas in Greater Manchester
While many areas are affordable, some parts of Manchester are on the luxury end. These places have higher prices due to top schools, greenery, and better lifestyle options.
| Rank | Area | Average Price | Annual Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trafford | £350,000 | 1.4% |
| 2 | Stockport | £289,000 | 2.9% |
| 3 | Bury | £225,000 | 2.1% |
| 4 | Manchester | £219,000 | 1.2% |
| 5 | Salford | £204,000 | 1.2% |
Trafford – £350,000 (Most Expensive)
Home to Altrincham and Hale, Trafford is a leafy, posh area with excellent schools. It’s a favorite for families looking for luxury living.
Stockport – £289,000
Stockport is undergoing regeneration and becoming trendier. Areas like Heaton Moor attract families and young professionals alike.
Bury – £225,000
Bury mixes market town vibes with countryside access. It’s great for commuters thanks to the Metrolink.
Manchester City – £219,000
Living in the city means being close to jobs, entertainment, and transport. Great for students and professionals.
Salford – £204,000
Salford is rising fast with MediaCityUK and modern flats. It’s close to Manchester city centre, making it attractive to young buyers.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Buy?
If you’re on a budget and want to stay near Manchester, the five cheapest areas — Rochdale, Bolton, Wigan, Oldham, and Tameside — are your best bets.
But if you want luxury, top schools, and green space, Trafford or Stockport might be worth the extra cost.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or looking to relocate, Manchester has something for everyone.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Check current listings, explore mortgage options, and plan your move today.
For more guides like this, visit Housing Market News — your trusted source for property advice in simple language.
