Bristol has long been one of the most expensive cities to live in the UK, pricing many buyers out of the market. However, several nearby towns are emerging as affordable commuter hotspots, where average property prices are significantly lower—up to £165,000 cheaper than in Bristol itself.
According to property website Zoopla, Bristol commuters can save up to 43% by moving to Newport in Wales, where the average home price is £214,700 compared to Bristol’s £379,800. Newport not only offers the greatest savings but also boasts one of the shortest commute times to Bristol, with an average of just 18 minutes.
Several locations in Somerset are also popular choices for Bristol workers seeking affordability. Weston-super-Mare, with an average house price of £261,200, ranks as the second cheapest option. While driving to this seaside town via the M5 can be slow during peak times, the fastest train service from Bristol Temple Meads takes only 17 minutes, making it a convenient option for daily commuters. The appeal of Weston-super-Mare has grown especially since the pandemic, as people seek more space and access to the coast.
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Other Somerset towns recommended by Zoopla as affordable commuter bases include Bridgwater and Highbridge. Tiverton in Devon rounds out the top five, although commuters traveling from there face journeys exceeding 40 minutes, even under ideal conditions.
The shift towards remote and hybrid working has prompted many to look beyond Bristol’s pricey housing market. New-build developments in towns like Weston-super-Mare are actively marketed to attract Bristol buyers. For example, Persimmon Homes’ Haywood Village highlights its local amenities and scenic beach location alongside the convenience of Bristol being “an easy drive away”.
With Bristol’s average salary requirement to afford a home nearing £65,000 annually, these affordable commuter towns provide valuable alternatives for workers seeking a better balance between housing costs and commute times.