Top 5 Areas to Buy a Home in Bath

Thinking about settling down in Bath but not sure on which area best suits your needs? Whether you’re drawn in by the city’s historic charm and architectural beauty or its strong commuter links, Bath stands as one of the most desirable places to live in the South West of England.

With options from spacious family homes to more modern city flats, Bath’s property market has been a mainstay in attraction for both investors and homebuyers, attracting everyone from professionals and students to growing families and retirees.

But with the rising demand of property and the cost of living in Bath under pressure, where should you start your search to become a Bathonian?

In this article, we explore the 5 best places to live in Bath, so whether you’re buying your first home or looking for a long-term investment, we’ll help you find the best area to live in Bath that suits your needs. Let’s jump in.

Why Is Bath a Nice Place to Live?

Bath consistently ranks as one of the most desirable cities in the UK, and it’s no secret as to why. With a perfect blend of Georgian architecture, vibrant cultural scenes, and excellent transport links, Bath has something for everyone.

Whether you’re taking in the Roman Baths, unwinding in one of the city’s many green spaces, or studying in search of a vibrant student lifestyle, Bath offers a living experience that few places can match.

From a practical perspective, Bath is home to a range of top-rated schools and a strong sense of community. Its local amenities include independent shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, offering something for families, professionals, students, and retirees alike.

In addition, its reputation as a safe, clean city only adds to its appeal. And with strong commuter links to Bristol and London, Bath offers both charm and convenience for those working further afield.

And so, when answering: Is Bath a Nice Place to Live? For many, the answer is a resounding yes.

Today, Bath is one of the most sought-after locations in the South West, a standout choice for both hybrid workers and those needing access to major cities without giving up a relaxed lifestyle.

Let’s begin our exploration at the five best places to live in Bath, starting with what the Sun referred to as:“the Trendy urban village”, Larkhall.

Larkhall

Tucked away on Bath’s north-eastern edge, Larkhall offers a true village feel that has the main benefit of only being a small walk from the city centre. This charming suburb is known for its tight-knit community, independent artisan shops, and relaxed pace of life. As such, Living in Larkhall is a particularly appealing area to live in for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Residents of Larkhall can enjoy easy access to wide green spaces, like Alice Park, that feature an abundance of  café pleasures, community gardens, and open fields that are ideal for a weekend picnic or after-school play.

There are plenty of things to do in Larkhall, including performances at The Rondo Theatre, browsing the farmers’ market, and relaxing in the local cafés. And for families, there is an excellent choice of local schools and regular bus routes that make commuting and school runs straightforward and easy.

When it comes to property, houses in Larkhall have shown strong performance in recent years. Rightmove records the average property price in the area currently stands around £480,978, broken down into the following:

From classic terraced homes to more affordable flats, there are plenty of options to rent or buy in Larkhall, making it attractive for renters exploring a longer-term move. With its blend of community spirit, convenient amenities, and steady property values, Larkhall continues to establish itself as one of the best places to live in Bath for a wide range of buyers.

Lansdown

Located just above central Bath, Lansdown offers sweeping views and refined elegance – often featuring as the backdrop in period dramas. It is renowned for its beautiful Georgian streets and picturesque countryside surroundings. Today, Lansdown remains one of the most sought-after – and more expensive – neighbourhoods in the city of Bath.

Residents enjoy a wealth of leisure options, from scenic walking trails around Beckford’s Tower to the prestigious Lansdown Golf Club. Just minutes from the city centre, Lansdown’s location makes it ideal for families and professionals who value space, quiet, and easy access to urban amenities.

Situated within the Lansdown district, Sion Hill adds a dynamic edge to the neighbourhood as the home of Bath Spa University’s campus, bringing a youthful and vibrant atmosphere without disrupting the area’s peaceful character.

Looking at the property opportunities, houses in Lansdown often command premium prices that reflect the area’s high demand. Recent data from Rightmove shows the average property price here is around £875,000, with a diverse market catering to different buyers:

From elegant Georgian terraces to modern flats, Lansdown offers a diverse range of high-end properties for both buyers and renters seeking a prestigious address. Its combination of stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and excellent amenities makes Lansdown one of the most desirable and enduringly popular areas to live in Bath for families, professionals, and upsizers alike.

Oldfield Park

With a diverse mix of rental and ownership opportunities, Oldfield Park is one of Bath’s most vibrant and dynamic neighbourhoods – and it’s easy to see why. This area has a particular appeal to students, young professionals, and first-time buyers who are looking for a more affordable way into Bath’s prestigious living and connections.

The area is well known for student houses, thanks to its close proximity to Bath’s university campuses. However, there is also a growing community of owner-occupiers drawn by the neighbourhood’s relative affordability and convenient location.

There’s never a shortage of things to do in Oldfield Park. And, as the name would suggest, the area is home to plenty of green spaces that sit alongside a vibrant community hub, where independent cafés, grocers, and restaurants all combine to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

When it comes to property prices, houses in Oldfield Park are a lot more affordable than both Larkhall and Lansdown. Recent figures from Rightmove show the average property price here is around £399,000, with other property types fetching a closer comparison:

While it is worth noting that prices have dipped slightly (around 3% over the last year), they remain close to the peak levels that were seen in 2022. For property investors and those looking for a safe investment in Bath, this is a helpful sign that is indicative of stable market conditions and ongoing demand.

Bathwick

Bordering the canal and nestled amidst lush greenery, Bathwick provides a pleasant blend of historic charm and riverside living. Specifically, for buyers seeking period homes with character and easy access to natural beauty, Bathwick is likely the place for you.

Most notably, Bathwick is famed for Bathwick Hill – a picturesque street of stunning Georgian and Victorian homes that ascend the hill towards the University of Bath. Beyond the beauty of the homes themselves, residents in Bathwick can enjoy scenic riverside walks, easy access to the canal, and access to the beautifully maintained Sydney Gardens, a beloved spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

House prices in Bathwick can vary, with Rightmove recording an average price of around £767,000. However, flats in the area provide a more budget-friendly option, selling for an average of approximately £428,000.

From stunning Georgian terraces on Bathwick Hill to contemporary flats near the canal, Bathwick offers a distinctive mix of properties that cater to a wide range of budgets and lifestyles.

Bath City Centre

For buyers who are looking to be in the heart of the action, there is no better area than Bath’s city centre. UNESCO-listed streets, stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and easy access to all amenities, the city centre of Bath truly is a perfect blend of historic charm and modern living.

Specifically, the proximity to Bath Spa railway station makes the city centre especially popular among commuters travelling to London, Bristol, and beyond. Beyond this, central Bath is also known to house some of the best places to stay in Bath centre, including boutique apartments and short-term rentals ideal for professionals and visitors alike.

The property mix is diverse and can feature elegant Georgian houses, stylish converted lofts, all the way to contemporary new-build flats – all with many picturesque views. Here’s a breakdown of average property prices in Bath city centre according to rightmove statistics:

Whether you’re seeking a vibrant lifestyle, convenient transport links, or a mix of period and modern homes, Bath city centre offers a unique and dynamic living experience.

Which Areas of Bath Are Best for Families and Long-Term Buyers?

The best areas for families and long-term buyers will depend wholly on your personal preferences and aims for the future. In essence, choosing where to settle long-term is much more than simple house prices – you need to think about schools, green space, and future-proofing.

Below we have provided a breakdown of recommended areas paired with typical buyer profiles for each:

What are the Current House Prices in Bath?

Looking at the full spectrum, the average house price in Bath currently stands at around £394,000, according to the latest market data from the Office for National Statistics.

That said, it is important to remember that property prices vary significantly depending on the area and property. For instance, we’ve explored how the elegant Georgian terraces in Lansdown can reach a premium price of well over £1 million, while more affordable options like a two-bedroom flats in Oldfield Park could cost a much more affordable £325,000.

For those looking to rent in Bath, the market remains competitive, especially for property that is located near the university campuses, or close to Bath Spa railway station. These properties often attract high demand and tend to let quickly.

Additionally, Bath’s popularity as a tourist destination has driven demand for short-term lets, making owning a holiday house in Bath a potentially lucrative buy-to-let investment with strong seasonal returns.

Looking for professional advice for financing your property purchase or investment?

Working with a trusted mortgage broker can help you navigate the complexities of securing a mortgage to finance your dream move to Bath.

At Boon Brokers, we offer fee-free, expert mortgage advice that is tailored to your unique situation.  Whether you’re looking at a buy-to-let or a traditional residential purchase, we ensure you find the best mortgage deals available for your property purchase.

Work with a Local Mortgage Broker in Bath

Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating to the city, or investing in Bath’s competitive property market, having an expert mortgage adviser in your corner will make all the difference.

At Boon Brokers, our dedicated mortgage experts constantly keep a finger on the pulse of Bath’s property market. So, whether you’re purchasing your first buy-to-let, expanding an existing property portfolio, or looking for a straight move to Bath – we’re here to help you.

We provide fee-free, no-obligation mortgage advice tailored specifically to your needs. As a whole-of-market brokerage, we have access to over 100 lenders, including both popular high-street banks and specialist lenders.

Contact Boon Brokers and start planning your perfect property purchase in Bath today.