The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide includes eight spots within the North and North East.
They are among 72 places across the UK to make the list, with Norwich, in Norfolk being crowned the overall winner nationally, and Skipton, in North Yorkshire, named the best place to live within the north and north east of England.
The villages, towns and city neighbourhoods were chosen by a team of judges based on a variety of factors, including job opportunities, the natural environment, community spirit, the choice of independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants, and the affordability of house prices.
Best Places to Live editor Helen Davies said: “One thing all our chosen locations have in common is that the people who live in them are proud to call them home.”
Below are the eight best places to live in the North and North East, according to the Sunday Times, and how much it costs to buy a home there.
Although Skipton was named the best place to live, the other seven areas within the region were not ranked and are listed in no particular order.
5. Saltburn-by-the-Sea: £266,367
Saltburn-by-the-Sea, in North Yorkshire, offers a 'bracing surf and turf lifestyle', according to the Sunday Times, with 'fresh air and heritage in spaces'. Among other things, the Best Places to Live 2026 guide points out, it boasts England's most northerly Victorian pier and a new pop-up sauna. It's not just about the seafront, though, with the guide describing how the 'bustling' town is 'brimming with independent stores, funky bars and artisan coffee shops'. The average house price in Saltburn-by-the-Sea is £266,367, according to Rightmove. | Google Photo: Google
6. Slaithwaite: £285,167
Slaithwaite is described by the Sunday Times as a 'creative corner of West Yorkshire' with 'its head in the skies and feet firmly on the ground'. The Best Places to Live 2026 guide explains how 'there's always something going on', from festivals to theatre productions and community arts events. It states: "The energy is kept alive by young families who love Slaithwaite for its indoor swimming pool, Spa Park, accessibility to Manchester and Leeds, and (relatively) affordable houses." The average house price in Slaithwaite is £285,167, according to Rightmove. | Johnston Press Photo: Tony Johnson
7. York: £324,777
York is a 'historic, liveable city' that the Sunday Times says 'hits the sweet spot for work-life balance'. It's friendly, well-connected and boasts excellent schools and 'jaw-dropping' architecture, the Best Places to Live 2026 guide explains. Despite its rich history, the guide adds, the 'beautiful, beguiling' city is 'always looking to the future' and embracing new technology. The average house price in York is £324,777. | Johnston Press Photo: Simon Hulme
8. Skipton: £288,353
Skipton is the best place to live in the north and north east of England, according to the Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide. It's described as a 'haven for families' thanks to the 'excellent' schools and affordable house prices. The surrounding landscape is 'spectacular', and there's also a strong sense of community. The average house price in Skipton is £288,353. | Johnston Press Photo: Simon Hulme