Blackpool has been named one of the best places to live in Britain in a new study, ranking third in the country and comfortably ahead of many big-name cities.
The seaside resort was beaten only by York and Nottingham in research into the most desirable places to live by house-buying experts Housebuyers4u, which looked at everything from culture and green space to crime and the cost of putting a roof over your head.
For Fylde coast readers used to hearing about Blackpool’s challenges, the figures offer a very different picture of the town.
According to the study, Blackpool scores an impressive 77.36 out of 100 for culture, helped by 27 concerts and show attractions, 18 more than the national average, taking in venues such as the Winter Gardens, Grand Theatre, Viva and the famous piers.
The town’s overall index score of 68.61 is 34.7 per cent above the national average of 50.90, putting it just behind York and Nottingham and ahead of cities including Liverpool, Edinburgh and Leeds.
Researchers also highlight a positive trend on crime, with violent offences in Blackpool falling at a time when other places are seeing rises.
On housing, Blackpool records a strong affordability score of 96.64 out of 100, reflecting lower property prices than many rival locations.
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We’re really proud of our hometown - we’re home to the country’s best park, award-winning beaches, world-class attractions and venues, a unique museum in Showtown, and a programme of high-quality culture and events.
“We also boast great residents who are proud of our town’s heritage and who work hard to maintain our place as a much-loved hometown, and also a welcoming holiday destination loved by millions.
“We’re investing heavily in our town, changing the face of it as well as creating opportunities for our local residents, so that we can make Blackpool even better for the people who live here.”
York tops the table thanks to a mix of historic charm, a perfect 100 out of 100 score for green space, and a strong cultural offer, while Nottingham comes second with solid scores for both culture and housing.
Edinburgh and Newcastle-upon-Tyne complete the top five, with Liverpool close behind.
At the other end of the scale, Slough was named the least desirable place to live, with low scores for culture and limited access to parks and green space.
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Luton, Hove, Basildon and Gillingham also feature in the bottom five for 2026.
Property expert Paul Gibbens, from Housebuyers4u, said the figures underline how places like Blackpool are increasingly attractive to buyers looking for a mix of entertainment, value and improving safety.
He added that the ranking shows how some areas are managing to “balance tradition with modern amenities”, making them sought-after spots for people wanting both character and practicality.
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