Altrincham has been ranked the best place in England to raise a family, thanks to its unique balance of affordability, education, safety, and lifestyle. The research, carried out by Bell Financial Solutions, compared multiple family-friendly hotspots based on factors such as school quality, crime levels, transport links, and average house prices.
While many families look for space and affordability outside of big cities, Altrincham’s position on the edge of Greater Manchester gives it the best of both worlds: a lively market town atmosphere with easy access to one of the UK’s most dynamic city centres.
Why Altrincham Stands Out
The town’s appeal is driven by four key factors that parents consider non-negotiable:
- Education: Altrincham benefits from a range of Outstanding-rated Ofsted schools, both primary and secondary, giving families confidence in their children’s future prospects. The presence of highly regarded grammar schools also adds to its reputation.
- Safety: With a low to medium crime rate, Altrincham offers the sense of security many families prioritise when deciding where to live.
- Affordability: The median sold price of around £400,000 makes it more accessible compared with areas like Bramhall, where average prices exceed £560,000.
- Connectivity: Fast transport links mean commuters can reach Manchester city centre in under 30 minutes by tram or train, while still enjoying the green spaces and community feel of a market town.
Daniel Bell, director and mortgage adviser at Bell Financial Solutions, highlights why Altrincham is currently so attractive:
“Price will always be a sticking point, but don’t just look at the value of the home you’re trying to buy. It’s just as important to look at the wider area to understand long-term value and how the community is developing. That’s what makes Altrincham such an appealing choice right now.”
How Other Areas Compare
Altrincham led the rankings, but other Greater Manchester and Cheshire locations also scored highly.
- Didsbury came second, praised for its trendy community feel and amenities, but marked down due to slightly higher crime rates.
- Bramhall ranked third, offering leafy suburbs and high-end homes, but with property prices averaging £568,000, it is less affordable for first-time buyers and young families.
- Prestwich, Chorlton, Sale, and Cheadle also made the top seven, each offering a mix of affordability and access to Manchester.
The full ranking is as follows:
- Altrincham, Trafford – £406,000
- Didsbury, Manchester – £436,000
- Bramhall, Stockport – £568,000
- Prestwich, North Manchester – £300,000–£350,000
- Chorlton, Manchester – £401,000
- Sale, Trafford – £350,000–£400,000
- Cheadle, Stockport – £321,000
A Growing Family Destination
Beyond affordability and schools, Altrincham has become known as a destination in its own right. Its revitalised town centre is home to the award-winning Altrincham Market, a hub of independent food stalls, shops, and community events that appeal to young families.
Green spaces such as John Leigh Park and nearby Dunham Massey provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Families also benefit from sports clubs, cultural events, and a thriving local economy that has seen the town repeatedly ranked as one of the UK’s happiest places to live.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to raise a family is one of the biggest decisions parents will ever make. Altrincham’s winning mix of quality education, safety, transport, and community spirit makes it a standout option for those seeking long-term stability and lifestyle balance.
While nearby areas like Didsbury and Bramhall also offer attractive lifestyles, Altrincham’s relative affordability and strong infrastructure give it the edge. For families planning their next move, it represents not just a property purchase, but an investment in a thriving and supportive community.
As Daniel Bell summarises:
“The more information you gather at the start of your search, the more confident you can be that you’re not just buying a house, but investing in a place where your family can thrive for years to come.”
