New analysis by property website Rightmove found that average asking prices in St Helens have increased by 7.8% annually to £192,570, making the borough the fourth strongest-performing commuter location in Britain.
The study examined house prices in commuter towns around six major cities, including Manchester, and found that more affordable areas are seeing significantly stronger growth than many traditionally popular commuter belts in the South East. Liverpool was not included in the study.
Only Falkirk (13.5%), Rochdale (8.7%) and Broxbourne (8.1%) recorded higher annual increases than St Helens.
Rightmove said affordable commuter locations around Manchester and Glasgow are leading the way as buyers seek better value while maintaining access to major employment centres.
The borough of St Helens has strong transport links to Manchester, with Lea Green and Newton-le-Willows offering rail services to the city.
Property expert Colleen Babcock said: “Our data highlights two very different stories playing out across some of Britain’s commuter markets.
“In the more affordable locations around Glasgow and Manchester, asking prices are rising strongly as buyers look for value within reach of major cities.
“Meanwhile, some of the more expensive commuter hotspots are seeing prices ease, which could create opportunities for buyers who may previously have been priced out.”
The average asking price in St Helens remains considerably below Manchester itself, where the average asking price stands at £261,212.
Rightmove’s ranking places St Helens ahead of neighbouring commuter locations including Wigan, which recorded annual growth of 6.2%.
The findings suggest St Helens continues to attract buyers looking for a more affordable alternative to living in Manchester while benefiting from rail and motorway connections to the city.
Estate agents say commuter locations remain attractive because they offer a combination of access to major employment centres, green space, local amenities and family housing.
Ian Harris, president of Propertymark, said many buyers are now seeking a “hybrid location” which offers easy commuter access while retaining the benefits of living outside a city centre.
The report comes amid continued investment and regeneration projects across St Helens, with improved transport links and town centre developments helping to enhance the area’s appeal to homebuyers.
Top commuter hotspots by annual growth
Falkirk – 13.5% Rochdale – 8.7% Broxbourne – 8.1% St Helens – 7.8% Port Talbot – 7.7% Wishaw – 7.0% Wigan – 6.2%
