Yeovil presents a fascinating contradiction in Somerset’s housing market. While it boasts some of the most affordable property prices in the county, homes there consistently sell at a surprisingly brisk pace.
As of 2024, the average house price in Yeovil’s BA21 postcode area stands at just £224,486—making it the cheapest place to buy property in Somerset. Nearby Bridgwater (TA6), by comparison, costs about £8,000 more on average. Though other Yeovil postcodes like BA20 and BA22 are pricier, with average prices of £249,882 and £355,323 respectively, Yeovil overall remains a highly affordable option within the county.
Despite the low prices, residents have mixed feelings about living in the town. Steff, 26, who has lived there a decade, bluntly summarizes: “Nobody wants to live here.” David, 52, echoes this sentiment while appreciating the town’s charm: “[Housing is cheap] because people might not want to live down the side of a dirty alleyway.”
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Yet, Yeovil’s housing market is remarkably active. Both BA21 and BA22 rank among Somerset’s top ten fastest-selling postcode areas. BA21 is eighth, with houses selling in just 128 days on average, closely followed by BA22 at ninth place with 129 days.
Here lies the paradox: low prices suggest limited demand, while rapid sales indicate strong buyer interest. What explains this discrepancy?
One factor may be affordability constraints for first-time buyers. For many, areas such as Bath or Frome are out of financial reach, making Yeovil the best—and sometimes only—option. Additionally, significant new housing developments are underway, including plans for nearly 200 new homes at the town’s outskirts, set to begin construction within a year. These developments may be attracting more buyers willing to settle near, but not directly in, Yeovil.
The location’s appeal partly hinges on its proximity to countryside and amenities. As one resident noted, “Yeovil town centre is pretty dire but go 20 minutes out and you’re in beautiful countryside, with historic sites, lovely walks, and even Glastonbury nearby.” Another local praised Yeovil’s natural surroundings and convenience: “It’s only 40 minutes from the beach and 1.5 hours from Bristol and other cities.”
While housing developers like Persimmon Homes chose not to comment publicly, the market trends speak clearly: Yeovil remains an affordable hotspot where property moves fast.
Whether this dynamic will shape Yeovil’s future positively or create challenges remains to be seen. Compared to the broader Somerset Council area, where average house prices rose by 3.8% (£10,251) to £279,802 over the past year, Yeovil’s prices are notably lower but sales remain active. Meanwhile, neighboring Bath and North East Somerset experienced a slight 1.8% decrease in house prices, highlighting the varied landscape of the region’s property market.