York is no stranger to headlines when it comes to property investment. Steeped in history yet brimming with modern opportunity, this city remains one of the most promising places in the UK for landlords seeking reliable returns. As we look ahead to 2025, the combination of consistent rental demand, capital growth potential, and quality of life continues to attract investors to York’s bricks and mortar.
At Northwood York, we know every street and suburb inside out. We’ve been helping landlords and buyers make confident property decisions for years. Here, our Branch Manager, John Sheppard shares his expert insight into five of York’s most promising buy-to-let hotspots this year.
Clifton: where tenants never stop looking
Clifton continues to deliver solid investment potential, and it’s easy to see why. Located just north-west of the city centre, this neighbourhood blends tree-lined streets with buzzing student life.
The area sits within easy reach of York St John University and has quick transport links to the University of York. That means a near-constant stream of students looking for quality, well-managed homes. Beyond the student market, Clifton also appeals to young professionals and couples looking to rent somewhere with a local vibe but still close to the action.
Average rental yields in Clifton are around 5 to 6%. The area’s long-term potential is bolstered by York’s limited housing stock and rising demand.
Our team at Northwood York can guide you through what’s needed to stay compliant if you’re considering an investment property within Clifton.
Acomb: value today, growth tomorrow
Acomb is one of York’s best-kept investment secrets. Located to the west of the city, it’s a larger suburb with a real sense of community. And for landlords, it offers a sweet spot: affordable purchase prices combined with healthy rental demand.
This makes Acomb particularly attractive for first-time investors or those looking to grow a portfolio with solid foundations. Properties here are typically a mix of post-war semis, terraces, and ex-local authority homes. Demand is high among working families, young professionals and even some retirees, thanks to its green spaces and excellent local amenities.
Acomb is also benefiting from gradual regeneration, including improvements to infrastructure, public services and housing stock. As a result, property values are slowly climbing, and landlords are seeing consistent returns with potential for appreciation.
Typical gross yields in Acomb hover around 5%, but there are standout examples achieving more, especially with updated interiors and modern layouts. As with any area, quality management and presentation make a big difference.
Explore homes currently available in Acomb.
South Bank: lifestyle appeal with city convenience
For tenants seeking a village feel within walking distance of York city centre, South Bank ticks all the boxes. This riverside district is a magnet for young professionals, small families and downsizers alike. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, with leafy streets, independent cafés and a strong sense of local identity.
Properties here tend to be period homes with character, including Victorian and Edwardian terraces. There are also a few newer developments peppered around the area, particularly near Bishopthorpe Road, often referred to as one of the €œcoolest streets€ in York.
From an investment standpoint, South Bank offers more than just charm. It has low vacancy rates and strong tenant retention. While purchase prices are higher than areas like Acomb, rents are also robust, meaning landlords can still achieve yields around 4 to 5%.
Moreover, tenants in South Bank tend to stay longer, reducing void periods and providing stable income streams. Discover how to let your property with confidence.
Heworth: the one to watch
Heworth is emerging as one of York’s up-and-coming buy-to-let areas. East of the city centre, it’s popular with tenants looking for a balance of affordability, space and convenience.
The area is undergoing gentle gentrification, with new shops, cafés and amenities springing up alongside its well-established streets. As a result, interest is growing among both tenants and landlords.
Heworth offers a broad mix of property types, from traditional terraces to 20th-century builds and a few modern flats. This variety appeals to a wide tenant base, including professionals, families and older renters.
Transport links are excellent, with easy access to both the city centre and outer ring road. There’s also a growing number of homebuyers and developers investing here, which helps underpin future value growth.
Gross rental yields in Heworth typically range from 4.5 to 5.5%. Many investors have found success buying slightly dated properties and carrying out light refurbishments to boost rental income and value.
Fulford: prestige and long-term stability
Fulford has long been a favourite among York residents – and savvy landlords have taken note. Known for its excellent schools, leafy avenues and riverside walks, Fulford attracts tenants who are willing to pay a premium for location and quality.
While property prices are higher here than in some other parts of York, so are the rents. Demand is strong among families, academics, and professionals working at the nearby university and hospitals.
Typical properties include larger semis and detached homes, many with gardens and off-street parking – a big draw for families. And although yields may come in slightly lower (around 4 to 4.5%), the trade-off is stability. Tenants in Fulford often sign longer leases and take excellent care of their homes.
Fulford is also relatively insulated from market fluctuations due to its desirability. For investors looking to balance income with long-term value growth and minimal hassle, it’s a smart choice.
Final thoughts: York continues to reward landlords
From vibrant student hubs to peaceful riverside retreats, York offers something for every investor. Its strong economy, excellent transport links and rich culture make it a desirable place to live – and that underpins its value as an investment location.
Each area mentioned here offers different advantages, whether it’s Clifton’s high yields, Acomb’s affordability, or Fulford’s prestige. And with York’s ongoing housing demand, these neighbourhoods are set to remain popular well beyond 2025.
If you’re thinking about buying a rental property in York – or want to know how much your current property could fetch in today’s market – we’d love to help.
Get in touch with our friendly team at Northwood York:
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Let’s find the right opportunity for you, together.
