Could Climate Change Drive More People North?

By Joanne Stennett, Senior Associate

For generations, warmer weather has been one of the attractions of living in the south of England. However, as summers become hotter and periods of extreme heat more frequent, the UK’s traditional north–south property divide may begin to shift.

The Met Office projects that UK summers will continue to become warmer, with the most severe increases in temperature expected across southern areas. Hotter summers bring practical concerns, including uncomfortable homes, pressure on water supplies and increased risks to health. Many properties in the south were designed to retain heat rather than remain cool during prolonged periods of high temperatures.

Against this background, Scotland’s cooler climate could become increasingly attractive. The Highlands and Islands offer lower average summer temperatures, more space and access to coast, woodland and open countryside. These qualities may carry greater weight as people consider not only where they want to live now, but where they will feel comfortable in 10, 20 or 30 years.

Changing working practices could support this movement. Remote and hybrid working have already reduced the need for some buyers to live close to large southern cities. Better digital connectivity in many rural communities means that relocating north is now a practical option for a wider range of people.

Affordability is another consideration. Although property values vary considerably across Scotland, buyers moving from London and the south-east can often acquire a larger house with more land for substantially less than they would pay in their existing area. Energy-efficient homes, private water supplies, productive land and scope for renewable energy may become increasingly desirable.

This does not mean that Scotland is protected from climate change. Wetter winters, flooding, coastal erosion, storms and pressure on infrastructure must all be considered carefully. Buyers should examine flood maps, water supplies, access, energy efficiency and the condition of rural roads and services before purchasing. An area’s long-term resilience is more important than temperature alone.

Nor is a sudden mass relocation north inevitable. Employment, family connections, schools, healthcare and transport will continue to influence where people settle. However, climate is likely to become a more prominent part of the decision-making process.

Even a gradual increase in demand could affect the Highland property market, particularly for well-connected rural homes, properties with land and houses designed for low-energy living. This could support values, but it may also place additional pressure on housing availability for established communities.

Climate resilience is becoming part of how people assess property. As southern England faces more frequent periods of extreme heat, Scotland’s relatively moderate summers may become a stronger selling point, and one more reason why some buyers choose to look north.

For more information on living and buying in the Scottish Highlands, click here. 

Thinking of selling? Contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799, or email enquiries@bellingram.co.uk