The UK's most expensive cities for first-time buyers

Over the past year, homeowners and first-time buyers have faced soaring mortgage costs. 

In 2022, the fallout from the mini budget caused rates to soar before falling towards the end of last year. 

First-time buyers with a 15% deposit typically pay nearly £200 more per month in 2023 compared to the previous year due to higher mortgage rates and record asking prices, according to data from Rightmove.

While there are some cities that are relatively cheap to buy property in, some cities are significantly more expensive.

Rightmove has analysed the monthly mortgage payment of a typical first-time buyer property with at least two bedrooms and the equivalent rent in cities in Great Britain to discover the most expensive places.

This data assumes that the buyer takes out a five-year fixed-rate loan with a 10% deposit at a rate of 4.45% spread over 25 years.

While mortgage rates have risen since this data was published in May 2023, it can provide insight into the most expensive cities to buy a property in for the first time.

Which cities are the most expensive?

It should come as little surprise that London is the most expensive city for first-time buyers, where the average asking price is £508,879 with an average mortgage payment of £2,533 per month.

On average, you’ll pay £479 more a month on mortgage payments compared to renting.

In second place is St. Albans, where the average asking price is £393,485, with average monthly mortgage payments of £1,958. You’ll typically pay £525 more a month with a mortgage compared to renting.

The below table reveals the five most expensive cities and the average monthly mortgage and rental payments for first-time buyers.

If you’re thinking of buying a property, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a mortgage broker via Unbiased who may be able to find exclusive deals.