It’s safe to say that Hertfordshire has a reputation for being one of the most expensive counties in the UK to buy a property.
Combining rich history, with high-achieving schools, leafy streets and proximity to both the capital and beautiful countryside, many of the affluent towns of our home county are often ranked among the top places to live in the UK, skyrocketing both their popularity and house prices.
So, if you’re looking to move to Hertfordshire, it’s advisable to do your homework first in order to find the perfect location, and budget, for you.
Here is a rundown of some of our favourite local spots, and how much the average property in these areas will cost, based on data from Rightmove.
ST ALBANS
Recently ranked in the top 20 happiest places to live in the UK by Rightmove, St Albans is a popular choice for those looking to relocate to the area.
St Albans is one of the oldest market towns in Hertfordshire and with exceptional transport links to London, outstanding schools and a thriving restaurant and pub scene, it really is little wonder that St Albans is so in-demand.
St Albans is also home to an expansive property market, where grand Georgian buildings stand alongside charming Victorian terraces, and Hertfordshire’s only city had an average property price of £614,554 last year (up 6% from the previous year).
HARPENDEN
Considered one of the county’s most affluent areas, Harpenden had an impressive overall average property price of £816,901 last year.
There are many reasons why this quaint town has become such a desirable place to live. With its semi-rural setting, charming high street, high-performing schools and rich historical background, Harpenden prides itself on its warm community spirit and village feel.
Harpenden also offers a wonderful collection of homes to choose from, from period cottages to lavish, contemporary new builds and luxurious family homes.
WELWYN GARDEN CITY
Welwyn Garden City has a good choice of affordable new-build flats and neo-Georgian homes, all within a 30-minute commute to London. And with the average property price over the last year coming in at a very reasonable £425,658, it’s no wonder that Welwyn Garden City is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after places to live in the county.
With its fantastic amenities, modern shopping centre, tree-lined avenues and close proximity to woodland walks and traditional country pubs, Welwyn Garden City really does combine the best of town and country living.
REDBOURN
Location, Location, Location’s Phil Spencer once described Redbourn as ‘quite possibly one of the cutest villages I’ve ever seen’, and here at Ashtons, we’d have to agree!
The village of Redbourn offers both the beautiful views and tranquillity of quiet village life, with all the amenities and vibrancy of both Harpenden and St Albans just a stone’s throw away.
The village common is popular among locals for hosting regular cricket and football matches as well as being the perfect spot for a dog walk or bike ride. The local community at Redbourn is also vibrant, with regular fairs, music and sports events taking place throughout the year.
Properties in Redbourn had an overall average price of £570,048 over the last year.
BERKHAMSTED
The picturesque town of Berkhamsted was recently named by The Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in the south east and it’s easy to see why Berkhamsted has earned such high praise…
With the stunning Grand Union Canal running through the heart of the town, Berkhamsted is surrounded by countryside and offers a broad range of shops and a burgeoning café culture combined with high-performing schools and green space a plenty.
Berkhamsted has a mix of properties on offer from medieval to Georgian and Victorian, and most of the town is protected by its conservation area status. Homes in Berkhamsted had an average price of £676,087 over last year.
HITCHIN
Characterful Hitchin – with its iconic Gothic Church in a cobbled town centre – is fast growing in popularity among families looking for the perfect blend of commuter town and great schooling options.
Making a regular appearance in ‘Best Places in Live’ and ‘Happiest Place to Live’ surveys, Hitchin is renowned for its community vibe, its beautiful lavender fields and its impressive town centre, which dates back to the 7th century.
And while homes in Hitchin are high in demand, the prices remain reasonable with an overall average price of £479,409 over the last year.
Are you considering a move to Hertfordshire? Our team are experts on the local area and would be happy to discuss further with you – get in touch today.