Property investment stats for Preston (Preston), North West

• Rental yields are attractive, with the average at 7.7% and the top postcode district offering up to 8.5%.
• The large student and young professional population (both in the top percentiles nationally) supports sustained rental demand, especially for smaller flats and shared houses.
• Properties move quickly, with an average of 41 days on the market, which can help investors avoid long void periods.

• The unemployment rate is in the 93rd percentile, which could impact tenant stability and rent collection in some segments.
• Owner-occupancy is low (16th percentile), so the market is heavily reliant on the private rented sector, which can be sensitive to regulatory changes.
• The degree-educated and professional population is relatively low for a city of this size, which may affect long-term capital growth potential.

Over the next year, I expect Preston to remain an attractive spot for yield-focused investors, given the combination of strong rental yields of 7.7% and the high demand from students and young renters. Capital growth has been steady, with a 1-year capital growth of 1.5% and a three-year annualised growth of 4.1%, which suggests a market that’s delivering both income and reasonable appreciation.

Affordability is a real strength here, and with asking prices for a three-bedroom house at £185,000 and two-bedroom flats at £110,000, entry costs are accessible for a wide range of buyers. Rental demand should stay robust, especially with a rent-to-income ratio of 21.9% and a private rented sector in the 84th percentile. Investors should keep an eye on the local economy and employment trends, but for now, the fundamentals look promising for those willing to embrace a market driven by renters.