Homes in National Parks hold 24% premium – Nationwide
This was equal to about £66,500 based on the average UK house price of £278,784 in the second quarter of 2026.
Homes in National Parks carried a 24% price premium over similar properties elsewhere, according to data from Nationwide.
This was equal to about £66,500 based on the average UK house price of £278,784 in the second quarter of 2026.
Properties within 5km of a National Park carried a 6% premium, while homes in National Landscapes in England and Wales attracted a 14% premium.
The New Forest was the most expensive National Park, with an average house price of £563,000.
This was followed by the South Downs at £485,000, the Peak District at £450,000 and Dartmoor at £348,000.
Surrey Hills was the most expensive National Landscape, with an average property price of £710,000.
Average prices reached £685,000 in the Chilterns, £505,000 in the High Weald and £475,000 in the North Wessex Downs.
Andrew Harvey, senior economist at Nationwide, said: “National Parks are highly desirable areas to live in thanks to the beautiful countryside.
“Those living in the parks are ideally placed to make the most of the great outdoors and take advantage of a range of activities and amenities.
“Development is also controlled with limited new housing construction, which may also help to explain why house prices tend to be relatively high.”
Harvey added: “We’ve also looked at National Landscapes in England & Wales (also known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)), which include places such as the Surrey Hills, Cotswolds and Chilterns.
“Our research found that properties in these areas attract a 14% price premium (over an otherwise identical property).
“These areas include some highly desirable locations, and the premium is likely to reflect the continued attractiveness of rural areas and the associated lifestyle.”
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, said: “Nationwide’s figures underline just how desirable homes in National Parks and National Landscapes are, and property agents see this demand first-hand.
“The appeal of the countryside, lifestyle and close-knit communities means buyers are often prepared to pay a significant premium for the right property.
“But that desirability comes with a downside for local communities.”
Emerson added: “Agents regularly see local buyers competing with people relocating from urban areas, commuters and those looking for second homes or a rural lifestyle.
“With relatively few properties coming to market, that competition can make it extremely difficult for local people, particularly younger households, to afford a home where they grew up or work.
“The figures for the New Forest and Surrey Hills demonstrate just how significant that premium can be.”
He said: “These are highly attractive places to live, but the challenge is ensuring that the people who live and work in these communities can continue to afford to call them home.”
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