A REMOTE Scottish town that sits on a stunning loch has been revealed as the cheapest coastal location to live in across the UK.
The latest Bank of Scotland Coastal Homes Review has provided a rundown of the most affordable locations across Britain.
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The study compared different areas up and down the country to help those who plan to get on the property ladder.
The experts analysed the average property prices in 2024 in a total of 197 coastal spots across the UK, 54 of which are in Scotland.
They then used this data to compile a list of the top ten most and least expensive places to live.
And it revealed that of all the locations in the UK, Scotland dominated the list of the cheapest areas.
All of the top ten most affordable coastal spots were located north of the border.
And coming in at number one on the list is Campbeltown, which is situated on the scenic Kintyre Peninsula, in Argyll and Bute.
Scotland’s coastline offers something for everyone – from the historic streets of St Andrews to the island charm of Rothesay and Millport
Isla Benzie
Experts found that the price of an average home costs £103,078, which is down by 11 per cent in the past year.
Campbeltown was once dubbed the whisky capital of the world and offers dramatic coastal views and access to the islands of Islay, Jura and Arran.
It was closely followed by Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, which came in second on the list with an average property price of £111,764.
The other top five spots were awarded to Millport, where an average home costs £114,008, Port Bannatyne, with an average price of £115,421, and Girvan, with the average cost of £116,211.
Greenock, in Inverclyde, and Ardrossan in North Ayrshire also made the rankings, coming in fifth and sixth, respectively.
The former has an average home price of £117,751, while the latter has an average price of £124,532.
The remaining three spots in the top ten were taken by Wick, in Caithness, Stranraer, in Dumfries and Galloway, and Saltcoats, North Ayrshire.
The price for an average home in each location is £126,708, £128,888 and £129,194, respectively.
Despite sealing all top ten spots on the most affordable table, experts found that across Scotland, the average price of a home by the sea but increased by around two per cent.
This actually contrasts with the UK overall, which saw prices of coastal homes fall slightly by one per cent over the last year.
Scotland’s least expensive coastal locations
Coastal location – Average house price
- Campbeltown – £103,078
- Rothesay – £111,764
- Millport – £114,008
- Port Bannatyne – £115,421
- Girvan – £116,211
- Greenock – £117,751
- Ardrossan – £124,532
- Wick – £126,708
- Stranraer – £128,888
- Saltcoats – £129,194
Gourock on the Clyde coast saw the biggest jump in house prices in 2024, with the average costs rising by around 24 per cent to £175,660.
Over the last five years, prices in Scottish coastal towns have risen by 25 per cent, compared to a British average of 18 per cent.
Experts at the Bank of Scotland also revealed that St Andrews has been named Scotland’s most expensive coastal location in Scotland.
St Andrews is one most famous and desirable towns across the nation and is internationally renowned as the birthplace of golf and home to Scotland’s oldest university.
Locals love everything from the beautiful beaches to its thriving cultural scene, with boutique shopping and fine dining options also on their doorstep.
Scotland’s most expensive coastal locations
Coastal location – Average house price
- St Andrews – £458,381
- North Berwick – £419,723
- Dunbar – £292,073
- Anstruther – £267,367
- Helensburgh – £246,938
- Musselburgh – £240,581
- West Kilbride – £240,349
- Stonehaven – £237,600
- Prestonpans – £237,183
- Nairn – £230,438
Which is partly why it remains one of the most sought-after locations in the country when it comes to the property market.
However, the town’s compact size and conservation policies limit new developments, which keeps the supply of new homes tight.
The large student population and year-round tourism also fuel the local buy-to-let market.
Isla Benzie, Head of Bank of Scotland Mortgages, said: “Scotland’s coastline offers something for everyone – from the historic streets of St Andrews to the island charm of Rothesay and Millport.
“While some of the most sought-after locations continue to command premium prices, there are still plenty of affordable options for buyers willing to look beyond the traditional hotspots.
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“Coastal property prices in Scotland have risen over the past year, reflecting strong demand and the enduring appeal of seaside living.
“But it’s also important to recognise the diversity of these communities – while some are thriving, others face real challenges linked to housing affordability, seasonal economies and access to services.”
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