Southport is known for its sweeping coastline, charming Victorian architecture and thriving independent businesses. But in recent years, there’s been another reason buyers are looking here: connectivity. Commuter links in and around Southport have quietly become one of the strongest pull factors for buyers, helping to lift local property prices and fuel demand.
As working patterns change and buyers look beyond city centres, well-connected towns like Southport are stepping into the spotlight. At Northwood Southport, we’ve seen a clear rise in interest from commuters, remote workers and hybrid professionals who want the best of both worlds – space and seaside, with speedy access to Liverpool, Manchester and beyond.
Northwood Southport director Todor Stefanov explains:
€œThe transport improvements in our region haven’t just made life easier – they’ve had a real impact on buyer behaviour. More and more people are relocating here because they know they can commute with ease while enjoying everything Southport has to offer.€
So how exactly do Southport’s commuter links affect local property prices – and what does this mean for buyers and sellers?
The commuter effect: why transport matters
Commuting isn’t just about convenience – it’s about lifestyle. When people choose where to live, their daily travel time has a big impact on what they can afford and how much they’re willing to pay.
Southport benefits from strong rail and road networks that make travel to major cities easier than ever:
- By train: Direct Merseyrail services from Southport to Liverpool Central take around 50 minutes, with frequent departures.
- Manchester-bound services from Southport, Meols Cop and Birkdale stations connect with major stations including Wigan Wallgate and Manchester Victoria.
- By road: The town has quick access to the A565 and A570, linking to the M58 and M6 motorways, making car journeys to Preston, Liverpool and Manchester straightforward.
These connections mean buyers working in urban hubs can now seriously consider a coastal lifestyle without sacrificing time or flexibility.
What the data says about prices
As transport links improve and become more reliable, the property market tends to respond. According to the latest Rightmove House Price Index, commuter towns and well-connected areas have seen consistent price growth over the past three years, especially as more people leave the city in favour of lifestyle-led moves.
In Southport:
- Average house prices currently stand around £225,000, with detached homes often exceeding £350,000 depending on location.
- Semi-detached and terraced homes, especially those within walking distance of train stations, have seen year-on-year growth of up to 6%.
- Birkdale and Hillside, with their direct rail access and village feel, command higher prices and faster sales times than areas further inland.
This commuter-driven demand is helping support price stability, even when broader market conditions remain uncertain.
Who’s moving to Southport?
Thanks to strong connectivity, Southport is attracting a more diverse mix of buyers than ever before:
- Young professionals and couples priced out of Liverpool and Manchester.
- Hybrid workers needing rail links just a couple of times per week.
- Families who want space, schools, and reliable commuting for one or both parents.
- Retirees relocating from further afield who want easy access to cities for family visits.
Remote and flexible working trends have widened the net for house hunters, and Southport ticks a lot of boxes for those prioritising quality of life.
Local areas benefiting from better links
While Southport as a whole is gaining interest, some areas are seeing particularly strong demand thanks to their location and transport access:
- Birkdale: One of Southport’s most popular neighbourhoods, with its vibrant village centre and direct train links. Properties here rarely stay on the market for long.
- Hillside: Loved for its mix of homes, proximity to golf courses, and direct line to Liverpool.
- Ainsdale: A great choice for families and downsizers, with strong schools and motorway access.
- Southport town centre: Still a smart choice for buyers wanting walkable shops and the main station nearby.
Homes within a 10-minute walk of a train station often fetch a 5–8% premium compared to similar properties slightly further afield.
Commuting and quality of life
While connectivity is key, it’s only part of the story. Southport also delivers on the lifestyle front:
- Green space: With Victoria Park, Hesketh Park, the Botanic Gardens, and the coastline, there’s plenty of room to breathe.
- Schools: The town is home to several Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ schools.
- Amenities: From independent cafes and shops to established restaurants and cultural venues, the town centre has something for everyone.
- Recreation: Golf, sailing, cycling, and walking opportunities abound – especially for those working from home who value their free time.
The combination of strong transport and seaside lifestyle is rare, and that’s precisely why Southport continues to appeal.
Advice for buyers
If you’re house-hunting in 2025 and your commute plays a role, here are a few pointers:
- Look at journey times, not just distances. Southport’s rail network often beats car times in rush hour.
- Focus on station proximity – not just the main station, but Birkdale, Hillside and Ainsdale too.
- Act quickly: Homes in commuter-friendly areas don’t hang around.
Start browsing our latest properties for sale in Southport and filter by location and station distance.
Advice for sellers
If you’re thinking about selling, your property’s commuter appeal could be a strong selling point. Make sure your agent highlights:
- Distance to nearest train station
- Journey times to Liverpool or Manchester
- Nearby bus links or road routes
- Working-from-home features like office space or garden rooms
Our team at Northwood Southport can help you present your home to the right audience. Book a free valuation to get started.
A word from our director
Todor Stefanov, who has been leading the Northwood Southport branch since its expansion, says:
€œCommuter links have played a huge role in putting Southport on the map for buyers across the North West. We’re helping more people than ever make the move here, whether they’re first-timers, families or downsizers. Our job is to match them with the right home and give them confidence that they’re investing in a well-connected future.€
Why now is a smart time to move
With continued investment in Merseyrail and improved road planning in the region, Southport is set to benefit even more from commuter convenience in the coming years. House prices remain competitive compared to nearby cities, but the upward trend suggests those waiting for the ‘perfect moment’ could miss out.
If you’re ready to move, downsize, upsize or invest in Southport, our experienced team is here to help.
We know the town, we know the streets, and we know what buyers are looking for.
At Northwood Southport, we make every move matter.
