Kent house prices are on the rise, according to new analysis from estate agents Purplebricks.
The latest House Price Index will come as encouraging news for the majority of homeowners in Kent and across the UK, following last month’s price rises.
Average Kent property prices have increased 1.6% in the 12 months to May 2026 – meaning most homes have gained around £5,372 in value, and are today worth £345,918.
Kent properties have also gained £1,132 in value from April to May this year.
Nine of the county’s 13 local authority areas saw annual house price rises while four saw losses in the monthly ONS report.
Tom Evans, sales director at Purplebricks, said: “Fantastic news for homeowners with house prices returning to growth, indicating confidence is creeping back.
“With borrowing costs beginning to ease and lenders continuing to offer more competitive fixed-rate mortgage deals, first-time buyers have greater opportunity to get a foot on the ladder.
“And, a rise in prices will likely spur those higher up the chain who may have been put off moving because they felt they would not get what they felt their house is worth from a sale.
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According to the analysis, Kent’s best-performing area was Sevenoaks, where the average home is now worth £553,752 after a 3.9% year-on-year rise worth £20,952.
Kent’s second best-performing area is Canterbury, where average properties are now valued at £346,674 after an annual 5.1% rise worth £16,698.
In third place is Swale, where the average home is now valued at £294,113, after a 3.7% annual bump worth £10,495.
Tonbridge and Malling is the fourth best-performing area after an annual gain of £6,277 or 1.6%. The average home is now worth £403,227.
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In fifth spot is Folkestone and Hythe, where property prices have risen to an average of £311,163 after a 1.6% year-on-year increase worth £5,041.
Mr Evans added: “While affordability remains a challenge for some, the market in Kent has shown real resilience, and the picture for homeowners is becoming more and more encouraging.”
Sevenoaks and Canterbury were among the top five best-performing areas in the South East – with Sevenoaks second behind Surrey Heath, and Canterbury fourth behind South Oxfordshire.
Homes in four Kent areas lost value, including Tunbridge Wells (down £151 to £452,286), Medway (down £1,302 to £292,653), Thanet (down £1,572 to £267,616) and Dartford (down £2,579 to £337,333).
Average UK property prices have increased by 2.7% in the 12 months to May 2026 – meaning most UK homes have risen by around £7,217 in value and are now worth £271,000.
THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOUSE?
If you’re inspired by what you’ve just seen and wondering what your own home could be worth, now’s the perfect time to find out. Purplebricks offers a free, no-obligation valuation with a local property expert who knows your area inside out.
You’ll get an accurate market appraisal, tailored advice on pricing and presentation, and a clear plan to help you achieve the best possible result. Booking takes just a couple of minutes online – choose a time that suits you and take the first step towards your next move by clicking here to arrange your valuation.
