Table of Contents
Variety of Property Types
- Preston
Deposit
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Yield
Property Price
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Why Studio Flats Are a Smart Investment Choice
When investors ask me what makes studio flats such a strong option, I often say it boils down to two things: affordability and demand. Studios are typically much cheaper to buy compared to larger properties, but they’re no less lucrative.
In Preston, for example, you can often find well-located studios for under £90,000, while a one-bedroom apartment might set you back £120,000 or more. That lower entry price means higher rental yields—usually around 7–8%—and less upfront capital needed.
Another key benefit is the target market. These apartments are perfect for students, young professionals, and even retirees looking for compact, low-maintenance homes.
I’ve worked with clients who’ve bought studios near the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), and their occupancy rates are incredible. With a mix of affordability and high demand, studio apartments make an excellent addition to any portfolio.
Preston's Thriving Rental Market
Preston’s rental market has been a consistent performer, and it’s only getting better. The city is home to over 147,000 people, and it’s growing steadily. That includes a large student population, thanks to UCLan, which draws in more than 38,000 students each year. This creates a steady stream of tenants who are often looking for smaller, budget-friendly spaces, like studio flats.
Rental prices in Preston are also attractive for landlords. A well-placed studio flat can bring in around £650–£750 per month, depending on its location and condition. Compare that to the cost of purchase, and you’re looking at excellent yields.
I’ve seen rooms near Moor Lane and Friargate Court rent out within days of being listed, which speaks volumes about the demand here. Whether you’re a new investor or adding to your portfolio, Preston offers a rental market with real staying power.
Top Picks for Smart Investors
Here are some carefully selected studio apartments that you can choose for your investment, recommended by experts for strong rental yields and high tenant demand. These options offer some of the best flats and compact living spaces available for both long-term and short-term rental strategies:
Guildhall Gardens
Located in the prestigious Winckley Square Conservation area, Guildhall Gardens is a prime spot in Preston’s busy city centre. This property combines the charm of historic Preston with modern studio flat living. It’s an excellent choice for professionals and couples who want the convenience of city-centre living with a touch of luxury. The demand for studio apartments in this area continues to rise as Preston revitalises its urban spaces.
Key Property Highlights:
£766 pcm
250 Years
3%
Q3 2023
- In the heart of Winckley Square, one of Preston’s most historic and affluent areas.
- Features 32 one-bedroom and 3 two-bedroom apartments with stylish, modern interiors.
- Meets Preston’s increasing demand for quality rental housing in the city centre.
- Walking distance to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), Market Hall, and Fishergate Shopping Centre.
- With Preston’s rental market on the rise, this is an ideal property for investors.
- 0.5 miles from Preston Train Station, 0.2 miles from Miller Arcade, and 1 mile from Avenham Park.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Berkeley Square
Although just 35 miles from Preston, Berkeley Square offers a contemporary urban vibe in Manchester. Perfect for short-term rental investors, this property attracts professionals, and students seeking stylish studios in the heart of the city.
Key Property Highlights:
£1,065 pcm
250 Years
25%
Q2 - Q4 2026
- High-quality studio apartments with spacious layouts.
- Positioned in a high-demand area near business and cultural centres.
- Near Deansgate, Manchester Piccadilly, and shopping areas.
- Manchester’s booming economy and job market ensure steady rental demand.
- 1 mile from Deansgate, 0.8 miles from Manchester Art Gallery, and 0.5 miles from Spinningfields business district.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
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Sovereign Point
Sovereign Point is ideal for investors looking for luxurious waterfront studio apartments near Liverpool’s most vibrant attractions. This building project includes 155 high-end apartments with beautiful views of the River Mersey and closeness to key culture and recreational sites. Sovereign Point comes with both high-end finishes and a community-focused vibe, which makes it an appealing option for renters who want to relax and have easy access to everything.
Key Property Highlights:
£839 pcm
999 Years
10%
Q3 2025
- It only takes 30 minutes to get there from Lancashire, which is great for investors in Preston.
- Flats with beautiful views of the River Mersey are complemented by beautifully landscaped gardens.
- There are studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom flats with high-end finishes.
- Landscaped common areas offer a peaceful place to get away from the city.
- Near Albert Docks and the new Everton Stadium, attracting both professionals and sports fans.
- 1 mile from Albert Dock, 1.2 miles from Everton Stadium, and 0.8 miles from Tate Liverpool.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Angel Gardens
Angel Gardens is a regeneration gem just a short drive from Preston. Known for its eco-friendly design and spacious studio flats, this development is popular among tenants who value sustainable living. It has environmentally friendly features and large apartments. Angel Gardens is close to key Liverpool landmarks and has quick access to the Knowledge Quarter, making it ideal for short-term and long-term rental strategies.
Key Property Highlights:
£185,000
999 Years
£5,000
Q4 2026
- Offers one- and two-bedroom units, each larger than
- Liverpool’s average apartment size, with private balconies.
- Designed with green roofs, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems.
- Up to 10% NET returns, with entry deposits starting at £20,000.
- Close to Liverpool Waters, Knowledge Quarter, and Project Jennifer regeneration.
- Approved for flexible rental strategies to attract corporate and leisure renters.
- 0.7 miles from Liverpool Lime Street Station, 0.5 miles from John Moores University, and 1 mile from Liverpool ONE shopping complex.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Angel Gardens is located in an up-and-coming district of Liverpool. It is in close proximity to two major regeneration projects: the £150 million Project Jennifer and the £5.1 billion Liverpool Waters scheme.
Cash Needed
Rent per month
Limited Units
£185k
Dockside Residences
The Dockside Residences are environmentally friendly and stylish studio apartments on Liverpool’s beautiful harbour. They are only 38 miles from Preston. This building was carefully planned to appeal to renters who care about being good to the environment. Located near Liverpool’s top cultural attractions, Dockside Residences is well-suited for both short and long-term rentals.
Key Property Highlights:
£1,250 pcm
250 Years
£5,000
Ready-Now
- All-electric design, with BREEAM certification and energy-efficient lighting.
- Beautiful views of the Mersey River, close to popular dockland attractions.
- 48 two-bedroom apartments with sustainable features like high-performance insulation and renewable energy sources.
- Studio apartments are approved for both long- and short-term rentals.
- Walking distance to Albert Dock, Tate Gallery, and Liverpool One shopping district.
- 0.5 miles from the Royal Albert Dock, 0.7 miles from the Museum of Liverpool, and 0.9 miles from the Echo Arena.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Trafford Gardens
Trafford Gardens provides modern living in Manchester’s Civic Quarter, just 35 miles from Preston. With 116 premium studio apartments and excellent transport links, this property appeals to young professionals seeking convenience and style.
Key Property Highlights:
£1,300 pcm
250 Years
10 Years
Q3 2025
- The property is just a 30-minute drive from Preston, making it convenient for local investors.
- Large one-, two--, and three-bedroom flats are available with premium amenities.
- Based in a high-growth area, which boosts long-term investment value.
- Only 300 metres from the Trafford Bar tram stop, which links with the city core and beyond.
- 0.2 miles from Trafford Bar tram stop, 1 mile from Old Trafford Stadium and 0.7 miles from MediaCityUK.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Paragon House
Paragon House offers high-end studio flats in Trafford, an area known for its cultural and sporting venues. From here Preston is only about 30 minutes away. Paragon House is a great place to live for people who want to be close to Manchester’s culture and sporting venues and still feel safe. This building has a digital concierge and gated entry, which makes it both convenient and private. This makes it appealing to investors who want to buy high-end rental properties.
Key Property Highlights:
£1,183 pcm
£142,000
£1,000
Ready-Now
- 115 studio apartments with modern layouts and sliding doors for open-plan design.
- Community and Security: Digital concierge, gated access, landscaped gardens, and social lounges.
- Walking distance to Old Trafford and Trafford Bar tram stop for quick access to the city.
- Positioned within Trafford’s master plan, offering promising growth for investors.
- 0.5 miles from Old Trafford, 0.3 miles from Trafford Bar tram stop, and 1.5 miles from Salford Quays.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
These properties provide a unique mix of location benefits, modern amenities, and proximity to major attractions in Lancashire, Preston, Liverpool, and Manchester. For studio apartment rental investors, these developments offer some of the best possibilities, with each built to appeal to a diverse range of tenant characteristics. This provides constant demand and a significant long-term growth potential.
Top Locations for Studio Flats in Preston
Central Preston
Central Preston is a no-brainer for investors. The area’s amenities—like Fishergate Shopping Centre, Preston Train Station, and the Guild Hall—make it incredibly appealing to tenants. I’ve seen apartments here go for around £700 per month, which is impressive given the relatively low maintenance costs. If you’re considering this area, streets like Market Street West are particularly popular among renters.
University Areas
The areas around UCLan, such as Moor Lane and Adelphi Street, are a magnet for student renters. These tenants are often looking for self-contained spaces that offer a bit more privacy than shared accommodation. Flats in this area can be rented for £130–£160 per week during term time. From my experience, housing close to campus tends to stay occupied year-round, making it a reliable investment.
Emerging Suburban Hotspots
For investors willing to look beyond the city centre, suburbs like Fulwood and Ashton-on-Ribble offer excellent potential. These areas are quieter, which appeals to especially young professionals, but still close enough to Preston city centre to remain convenient. Apartments in Fulwood have risen in value by around 10% over the last few years, and they still rent for £600–£650 a month. For those looking to balance affordability and future growth, these suburbs are well worth a look.
How Studio Flats in Preston Can Generate Passive Income
I always tell investors that generating passive income isn’t just a dream—it’s very achievable with studio apartments in Preston. These rooms offer versatility and steady demand, making them a brilliant choice for building a consistent income stream. With Preston’s growing student population, influx of young professionals, and affordable entry prices, the opportunities here are better than in many other cities I’ve worked in.
Leveraging Long-Term Rentals
For most investors, long-term rentals are the easiest and most stable way to create passive income. I’ve worked with landlords who focus on the UCLan student market, offering studios at around £650–£700 a month. That’s nearly £8,000 a year in gross income. The secret is understanding what tenants want—furnished flats, a decent mattress, and fast Wi-Fi often tip the scales.
One mistake I’ve seen new landlords make is skimping on upkeep. A client of mine initially tried cutting corners on maintenance, but the feedback from tenants wasn’t great. Once they invested in quality upgrades, the flat rented out faster, and tenants were happy to renew their leases.
Exploring Short-Term Let Opportunities
Short-term lets in Preston are a bit more work but can be very rewarding if managed well. With platforms like Airbnb, it’s easy to market your flat to tourists, visiting parents of students, or even business travellers. One investor I advised earned up to £100 per night for a central studio flat during Preston’s graduation week. The flexibility of short-term lets means you can adjust pricing depending on demand.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Cleaning, guest turnover, and maintenance can be a lot to handle if you’re doing it solo. My advice is to hire a local cleaning service or a part-time property manager—it’s worth the investment when you’re charging premium rates.
Property Management Solutions
If you’re like most investors, you probably don’t want to deal with the day-to-day grind of managing tenants or organising repairs. That’s where property management services like Flambard Williams come in. We handle everything—from finding high-quality tenants to taking care of maintenance issues—so you can enjoy truly passive income.
One of our clients recently told me how much they appreciated not having to worry about chasing rent payments or arranging repairs. With our thorough tenant vetting process, regular inspections, and 24/7 support, we ensure your investment is looked after while maximising your returns. A hands-off approach doesn’t mean compromising on quality or profitability—our team is here to take the weight off your shoulders.
The Future of Studio Flats in Preston
If you’re wondering whether studio apartments are a good long-term investment, let me put your mind at ease: they’re not just good; they’re great. Tenant preferences are shifting, with more people looking for affordable, low-maintenance spaces. Combine this with Preston’s ongoing urban development, and you’ve got a property type that’s set to thrive for years to come. Preston Lancashire is a hotspot for investors seeking high-yield studio flats and long-term growth potential.
Trends in Urban Livin
People are moving towards smaller, more efficient homes. Why? Because they’re practical, affordable, and easier to maintain. In Preston, the demand for studio flats is growing among students and young professionals who don’t need or want larger spaces. I’ve noticed this trend accelerating over the last five years, and I only see it getting stronger.
One thing to remember: location is key. Flats in areas close to UCLan or the city centre will always perform better because of their convenience. If you’re targeting professionals, focus on modern developments with amenities like parking or bike storage.
The Role of Sustainable Development
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s becoming a dealbreaker for many renters. In Preston, we’re seeing developers add eco-friendly features like energy-efficient heating systems and solar panels. Not only do these features reduce utility bills for tenants, but they also future-proof your investment as energy regulations tighten.
A colleague of mine recently invested in a studio flat with sustainable upgrades, and they’ve noticed tenants are more willing to pay a slight premium. As a landlord, you’re not just helping the environment; you’re also boosting your property’s appeal.
Predicted Growth in Preston’s Property Market
Preston is in a growth phase right now. With the £434 million City Deal funding major infrastructure improvements, the city is attracting more professionals, students, and even families. This means demand for housing is set to rise, especially in areas like the city centre and suburbs such as Fulwood.
I always advise investors to think long-term. Studios near transport hubs, the university, or new commercial developments will benefit the most. Over the next decade, we expect property values in these areas to appreciate significantly. Getting in now could set you up for both rental income and capital gains down the line.
Conclusion
Studio flats in Preston present a golden opportunity for investors looking to maximise returns, generate passive income, and position themselves for long-term growth. With their affordability, strong rental demand, and versatility, these properties cater perfectly to Preston’s diverse tenant base, including students, young professionals, and retirees. North West Homes offers expert guidance for investing in Preston’s thriving studio flat market.
The city’s thriving rental market, underpinned by its growing population and continued urban development, ensures consistent demand for well-located studios. Whether leveraging long-term rentals for stability or exploring short-term lets for higher yields, the possibilities for profit are vast. And with property management solutions like those offered by us at Flambard Williams, even the most hands-off investors can reap the rewards without the hassle.
Area Guide
Ricky Ellson
Firstly and foremost, I have been a dedicated senior advisor for many years (not to give away my age!
My strong work ethic has provided a solid track record of successfully building portfolios for many clients.
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