The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide: Yorkshire stands out for affordability and quality of life, says judge
A judge behind The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide has said “liveability” is now a key factor in deciding which locations make the list, with Yorkshire standing out for its affordability and quality of life.
A judge behind The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide has said “liveability” is now the key factor in deciding which locations make the list, with Yorkshire standing out for its affordability and quality of life.
Jayne Dowle, one of the judges for this year’s guide, said the panel looks for places that make modern life easier while offering a strong sense of community, good amenities and access to green space.
She said: “The key with best places every year, and increasingly really, is liveability.”
Dowle explained that this includes factors such as house prices, travel times, public transport, access to countryside and parks, as well as restaurants, cafés and places for people to meet.
She added: “I think homes more important than it ever has been. I think we want to feel happy and secure in where we live.”
Asked what takes a place from being good to making the final list, she said locations need something extra to set them apart.
“There’s got to be that extra 10 per cent really in a place. Is that magic dust?” she said.
Dowle said that could include factors such as strong schools, new infrastructure, improvements to town centres or standout natural surroundings.
She also said Yorkshire compares strongly with other parts of the UK because of its relative affordability, alongside access to countryside, coastline and major cities.
“I don’t think any other county can offer that,” she said.
Dowle added that Yorkshire’s strong identity also contributes to its appeal.
“Yorkshire’s a good word for people,” she said.
She said some places that did not make this year’s list could feature in future, with locations such as Wakefield and Barnsley already being considered by judges.
Dowle explained that places need a consistent and well-rounded offer to stand out, including a range of housing, strong schools, good transport links and thriving town centres.
She also outlined the judging process, which involves visiting locations, speaking to residents and assessing how places function day to day before making final decisions.
“We will only include what we think is absolutely excellent,” she said.
Offering advice to people considering a move, Dowle said it was important to research areas carefully and find somewhere that suits their lifestyle.
She said: “Really try and find a place where you feel comfortable, where you know that you can find your tribe.”