York named one of the UK’s top pet-friendly cities
A growing number of prospective homeowners are factoring pet ownership into their plans to get on the property ladder, with new research suggesting lifestyle considerations are playing an increasing role alongside affordability.
A survey of 1,000 potential buyers, by Skipton Building Society, indicates that around one in 10 people hope to purchase a home within the next two years specifically so they can own a pet. A further 11 per cent said finding a pet-friendly property is a key priority in their search.
The findings come as analysis of the UK’s largest towns and cities highlights where buyers may find the best balance between access to outdoor space, local amenities and housing costs. York ranks among the strongest-performing locations, placing second overall in the index measuring pet-friendly credentials.
The study assessed 50 locations using factors including access to green space, the number of veterinary practices and the availability of dog-friendly venues such as pubs and cafes. These were adjusted for population size and combined with affordability data to provide broader context for buyers.
York performed consistently well across all categories, recording the highest number of veterinary services per head of population among the locations analysed. The city also scored strongly for access to green space, an important consideration for dog owners in particular.
However, the data also underlines ongoing affordability pressures. Only around seven per cent of first-time buyers in York are able to purchase a property without financial assistance, reflecting wider challenges across much of the country.
Nottingham topped the overall rankings, driven by a high concentration of nearby green spaces and a strong selection of dog-friendly venues.
Brighton and Hove placed third, with the highest number of pet-friendly hospitality venues per capita, alongside comparatively better affordability levels for first-time buyers.
Elsewhere in the top 10 were Newcastle, Bristol and Edinburgh, while Stoke-on-Trent, Leicester and Glasgow also featured. London completed the list, combining a large number of dog-friendly venues overall with some of the most significant affordability constraints. In the capital, only a small proportion of first-time buyers are able to get on the property ladder without additional support.
The research reflects a broader shift in how buyers assess potential locations, with lifestyle considerations increasingly extending beyond traditional measures such as transport links and property size.
Jen Lloyd, head of mortgage products and proposition at Skipton Building Society, said: “It's not just about transport links or square footage anymore, buyers are also looking to put roots down where there are lifestyle benefits for their family -for many this includes their precious pets.”
At the same time, affordability remains a key barrier. Across many of the cities analysed, relatively low proportions of first-time buyers are able to purchase homes independently, highlighting the continued reliance on external support or higher household incomes.
The combination of these factors points to a housing market in which practical and lifestyle needs are increasingly intertwined.
For buyers in areas such as York, strong local amenities and access to green space may enhance appeal, but the challenge of securing a foothold on the ladder remains a significant consideration.