Property investment stats for Darwen, North West

• The average rental yield of 7.1% is particularly attractive, especially as the top-performing postcode district offers a yield of 7.2%.
• Properties are selling quickly, with a typical time on market of 32 days, and buyers are paying a median discount of £0 (the typical achieved discount), suggesting strong demand.
• Entry prices are accessible, with the median asking price for a 3-bedroom house at £227,475 and a 2-bedroom flat at £219,995.

• Recent capital growth over 1 year has changed by -7.3%, which may concern those seeking immediate appreciation.
• The area has a relatively high unemployment rate (in the 70th percentile), which could affect tenant stability and rental arrears.
• The proportion of professionals and managers is in the 18th percentile, suggesting the local economy may not be as resilient to shocks as some other areas.

Darwen’s fundamentals suggest ongoing appeal for yield-focused investors, given the strong rental returns and rapid sales pace. The younger demographic and high proportion of single occupier households (in the 90th percentile) should keep rental demand healthy.

However, the recent change in capital growth over 1 year of -7.3% means price appreciation is not guaranteed in the short term. Over a 3-year period, though, capital growth has reached 9.9%, with annualised growth of 3.2%, which may reassure those with a medium-term horizon. Investors should weigh strong liquidity and affordability against the area’s economic risks, but the current market conditions remain favourable for those prioritising income over rapid capital gains.