Introduction to the Happiest Place to Live
The bustling market town of Skipton in North Yorkshire has been named the happiest place to live in 2025, according to an annual study by Rightmove. With a well-preserved medieval castle overlooking the centre, Skipton is surrounded by picturesque views and is a base for the Yorkshire Dales.
What Makes Skipton Special
Rightmove said Skipton residents particularly rated it highly for its access to nature and green spaces, the friendliness of the people and access to key services such as schools. Residents also praised Skipton for feeling like they could be themselves there, and for the area’s affordability and the feeling that they earn enough to live comfortably. However, the city was rated lower for its access to employment opportunities and desirable jobs, as well as residents’ proximity to friends and family.
Housing and Attractions
The average asking price for a house in Skipton is £326,093, below the current national average of £364,833, Rightmove said. The town’s attractions include a traditional market square, shopping arcade, museum and independent shops. The city ultimately took first place after ranking sixth in last year’s study and second in 2020.
Community and Feedback
Ian Rigarlsford, who works in corporate affairs at Skipton Building Society, said: “Skipton is a place where community really means something and that is what makes living and working here so special.” The sense of community and the natural beauty of the area are key factors in Skipton’s high ranking.
Runners-Up and Regional Winners
Richmond-upon-Thames and Camden, both in London, were ranked second and third respectively in Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home Index. According to Rightmove, Richmond residents also rated it highly for its access to nature and key local services, as well as non-essential amenities such as restaurants and shops. Stirling has been named the happiest place in Scotland, with Anglesey in Wales topping the list.
Survey Details and Findings
More than 19,500 people took part in Rightmove’s Happy at Home 2025 survey, which was self-selected. The survey showed that residents in the South West are, on average, most satisfied with where they live, while those in the East Midlands are least satisfied. People who live in rural areas are more likely to say they feel comfortable where they live than city and suburban residents. River, forest or coastal locations are also more likely to have happy residents.
Top 10 Happiest Places to Live
- Skipton, Yorkshire and Humber
- Richmond upon Thames, London
- Camden, London
- Harrogate, Yorkshire and Humber
- Woodbridge, East England
- Altrincham, North West
- Macclesfield, North West
- Stirling, Scotland
- Cirencester, South West
- Hexham, North East
Key to Happiness
The study found that satisfaction with where one lives tends to increase with age, which may be partly because people tend to have larger housing budgets as they get older. Residents who live near a national park or an area of outstanding natural beauty tend to be happier than people who don’t live nearby.
