Ever thought about moving back to your childhood hometown? Maybe you miss the quiet streets, the sweet shop you loved, or you want to raise your own family where you grew up. But for many people in the UK, this simple dream now feels too expensive to be true.
Over the last 20 years, house prices across the UK have gone up by 74%, making it harder for people to return home — especially in the South of England.
The Big Picture: Prices Are Rising Fast
In 2005, the average UK house price was around £113,900. Fast forward to 2025, and that number has jumped to £268,200. That’s a huge leap in just two decades.
While some people have seen their homes go up in value, others — especially first-time buyers — are finding it harder to afford homes, even in the places they once called home.
South of England: A Pricey Homecoming
Some of the biggest house price jumps have happened in the South. Here’s a look at how much prices have gone up:
| Region | Avg Price in 2005 | Avg Price in 2025 | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £244,200 | £534,400 | 119% |
| South East | £206,100 | £385,400 | 87% |
| East | £180,600 | £337,500 | 87% |
| South West | £179,300 | £312,000 | 74% |
In Elmbridge (Surrey), for example, the average house price has more than doubled — now at £712,700. In St Albans, prices have jumped from £289,600 to £622,100, making it one of the most expensive places to “go back home” in Eastern England.
But there are still some cheaper spots. Great Yarmouth, a coastal town, saw prices go up by just 77% — from £105,900 to £187,700. Still a big jump, but not as shocking as in other parts of the South.
North of England: More Affordable Returns
If you’re from the North, there’s good news — it’s still possible to go home without breaking the bank.
Here’s how the North compares:
| Region | Avg Price in 2005 | Avg Price in 2025 | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| North East | £115,800 | £146,400 | 26% |
| North West | £126,300 | £200,800 | 59% |
| Yorkshire | £121,200 | £190,400 | 57% |
| Wales | £125,600 | £206,500 | 64% |
| Scotland | £103,100 | £168,000 | 63% |
In Sunderland, house prices rose only 22% in 20 years — from £101,600 to £124,000. That’s the lowest increase in the UK, making it one of the easiest places to return home. Blackpool also remains quite affordable, with prices up just 26%.
Why Are Prices So Different?
There are many reasons why house prices vary so much between regions:
- South East and London are closer to big job markets and have better transport, so more people want to live there.
- Northern towns don’t always have the same demand, so prices have grown more slowly.
- Remote work has changed where people want to live — more are now considering cheaper areas outside cities.
House Prices vs Income: Can People Still Afford to Buy?
One useful way to measure affordability is by comparing house prices to average income. In some Northern areas, this ratio has actually improved:
- In the North West, it dropped from 6 to 5.1.
- In Yorkshire, it dropped from 5.7 to 5.
That means in those regions, homes are now slightly more affordable in relation to how much people earn — a rare bit of good news.
Case Study: Two Different Towns
Let’s compare:
- Elmbridge (Surrey): Prices went up £370,000 in 20 years.
- Hull: Prices increased by just £38,000 in the same time.
Clearly, where you grew up makes a huge difference in whether you can afford to return.
Expert Insight
Daniel Copley, a housing expert at Zoopla, explains:
“Our research shows how much house prices have changed since 2005. For many people, especially in the South, going home just isn’t affordable anymore. But in some Northern areas, prices have stayed in line with local incomes, so the dream of moving back home is still possible.”
Planning Your Next Step
If you’re thinking about returning to your childhood town, here are some helpful tips:
- Do your research. Check how prices have changed in your hometown.
- Look at nearby areas. Sometimes a few miles away can mean big savings.
- Check for help-to-buy schemes. You may still qualify for assistance.
- Think long-term. Consider whether the area still suits your lifestyle and needs.
Final Thoughts
Nostalgia is powerful. We all dream of going back to the places we love. But rising house prices have made that dream harder to achieve — especially in Southern England. The good news? Many towns in the North, Scotland, and Wales are still affordable, and in some cases, even more budget-friendly than before.
So, before you pack your bags to go back home, take a close look at the numbers. Your dream might be just around the corner — or a few miles north.
For more simple and useful updates on home prices and property trends, visit HousingMarketNews today and stay informed.
