Home insurance experts at esure have revealed the best towns and cities in the UK to live and start a family, based on an analysis of GP availability, nursery fees, house prices, safety and education across the country’s main towns and cities.
The ranking covers factors such as finding a GP, affordable childcare, securing a home and choosing a good local school. A spokesperson at esure said: “Knowing where to raise a family is a big decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. There’s a lot to consider, and what works well for one family may not work for another, so it’s important to think about what matters most to you.”
Top 10 places to live and raise a family
The list includes Derby in the East Midlands, which was named one of the best places to live and raise a family in the UK, with good schools and GP practices. Leeds also ranked among the best places to live in 2026, especially popular with young families.
Reading, in Berkshire, was named one of the best cities to start a family based on GP access, house price to income ratio and primary school ratings. Liverpool is also considered one of the best places to live, with a lower cost of living than many major UK cities.
Affordable options in the top 10
Wakefield is described as a great and affordable place to live, with lots of restaurants, good schools and green spaces. Northampton is considered a very good place to live for families seeking affordable housing.
The spokesperson added: “There are many factors that can impact decisions on where to live, including housing, access to green space, childcare, healthcare and safety. Looking at things like local safety and home insurance costs early on can also help families understand the wider financial picture when planning for life with children.”
