Zoopla Analysis Shows Only 14% of UK Homes Grew Consistently

An analysis by Zoopla reveals a fragmented UK housing market where only 14% of homes—approximately four million properties—consistently increased in value every June between June 2022 and June 2026. While the average UK home value rose by 15.3%, or roughly £36,100, over the five-year period, the distribution of this growth was highly uneven across regions.

Northern Ireland experienced the most widespread growth, with 37.9% of homes increasing in value year-on-year, followed by the North West at 29.7%. Specific hotspots included Bonnybridge, Scotland, at 60.8% and Antrim, Northern Ireland, at 60.5%. Conversely, London saw only 4.6% of homes achieve consistent annual growth, and the East of England recorded the lowest regional consistency at 2.6%.

Industry experts attribute the resilience of northern markets to lower price points, which insulated buyers from the affordability pressures caused by higher mortgage rates. In contrast, southern markets faced declines as pandemic-driven demand for commutable areas faded and stamp duty incentives were withdrawn. Despite the growth in equity for some, organizations like the Skipton Building Society noted that equity alone does not guarantee the ability for homeowners to move, as the gap between buying and living affordability remains a significant barrier.