Scotland dominates 'hottest property markets for 2026' with 9 locations in UK top 10

Zoopla have assessed several housing market indicators, including housing affordability, the time taken to sell homes the number of homes sitting on the market for more than six months, and asking price reductions.

It took these factors into account to pinpoint the postal areas which it expects to have the strongest prospects for 2026.

Markets in Scotland lead the UK rankings, with just one location in the top 10 – Wigan in the North West of England – being situated outside Scotland, Zoopla said.

Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla said: “Whether you’re buying or selling, local housing market conditions matter more than ever when making housing decisions in 2026.

“Basing decisions on the value of a home, affordability, demand and selling times in the local area will help sellers and buyers move with greater confidence.

“Our analysis highlights the areas with the strongest potential for continued growth in sales activity and above-average house price rises in 2026.

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“While prospects are strongest in Scotland and northern England, opportunities exist across the UK where demand and affordability remain well aligned.

“Price growth is expected to be slower in lower-ranked markets, particularly across parts of southern England and London, although improving affordability means the outlook in London is more positive than in recent years.”

Here are the UK’s top 10 housing markets with the strongest prospects for 2026, according to Zoopla, with the postal area and the average house price: