The newspaper has used data compiled by estate agents Savills, whose criteria include the number of residents in good health and with managerial occupations and higher-level qualifications as well as the average house price.
Although there are some regular perennials in the list, such as York and Harrogate which always rank highly in similar surveys, several locations that have become increasingly fashionable post-pandemic have crept in. Guiseley, on the Leeds and Bradford border, is a more affordable option than nearby Ilkley with the same train links to the cities. Brough, near Hull, has excellent transport links and new housing. Yarm’s nearest conurbation is Middlesbrough, but the charms of the Georgian market town have put it on the radar of buyers.
5. Holmfirth
The mill town of Holmfirth is outperforming Huddersfield - the district it is part of - and has enjoyed a major revival in recent years. The high street is full of independent businesses and the arts and cultural scene has improved. There are good links to the M62 for commuting to Manchester and Leeds - but no rail station. Photo: Simon Hulme
6. Harrogate
Very few 'best places to live' guides omit Harrogate. Residents are generally healthy and well-educated. House prices are high, however, pushing the age profile up. The spa town has perhaps Yorkshire's best high-end shopping. Photo: Gerard Binks
7. Brough
Brough and nearby Elloughton are hotspots in the Hull and East Riding market. Brough is extremely well-connected, with good access to the M62 and trains to Leeds, Hull, York and London. The Brough South housing development has brought a new demographic of resident and 40% now have a degree. The BAE Systems plant near the town provides skilled engineering jobs on Ministry of Defence contracts Photo: Terry Carrott
8. Wetherby
Wetherby has shaken off its traditional image and the market town is becoming trendier. It is close to the A1(M) and easily commutable to Leeds. The town is built around the pretty River Wharfe and is popular with Leeds United footballers, whose training ground is nearby. No railway station, however Photo: Tony Johnson