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Why Preston Leads in Student Property Investment
Preston should be on your list of places to look if you want to invest in student property. Every year, the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) gets bigger.
With more than 38,000 students, there is a lot of demand for good housing that is close to campus. Honestly, I’ve seen this play out myself—properties close to the university or the city centre are snapped up fast by students who want to be close to everything.
The best part? Preston is much more affordable than big cities like Manchester or Liverpool. The average property price here is around £169,000, which is a bargain compared to its neighbours.
One of our clients bought a simple three-bed terrace near UCLan, converted it into an HMO, and it’s been fully let ever since. He’s pulling in a solid 7.5% yield. If you’re serious about rental income, investing in student apartments and flats here just makes sense.
With strong support from Preston City Council and the nearby academic draw of Lancaster University, the region continues to thrive as a hub for property investments, offering excellent opportunities for growth and rental demand.
Preston’s property market is thriving, driven by its young and growing population and ongoing housing developments. With a steady rise in demand, the city offers lucrative opportunities for investors seeking strong average rental yields. Supported by significant regeneration projects, Preston Lancashire has become a magnet for those looking to invest in a dynamic and promising location.
Infrastructure and Transport
Preston is a dream when it comes to transport. It’s bang in the middle of the North West and connects to major cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and even London via the West Coast Main line. I can’t tell you how handy this is—not just for students but for investors managing properties from other cities. The train station is right in the city centre, and trains are frequent and reliable.
And for students who’d rather avoid public transport, the city’s made it super easy to get around. There are many cycling paths and bike storage facilities all over the place. Plus, the buses are cheap and dependable, so even students living further out don’t have to stress about getting to uni or popping into town.
Amenities
Here’s the thing about students—they want everything close by, and Preston delivers. The city centre is packed with shops, cafés, bars, and entertainment venues, so there’s always something going on. And let’s not forget the nightlife—it’s a huge pull for students (and a reason properties near the action rent out fast).
But it’s not all hustle and bustle. Preston has some lovely green spaces, too, like Avenham and Miller Parks. Little things like that can make a big difference when you’re marketing your property.
And proximity to essentials—gyms, doctors, even a 24-hour supermarket—can seal the deal for tenants. Keep that in mind when choosing a location.
The City Deal
Preston’s received over £434 million to improve its infrastructure, transport, and housing, and it’s making a huge difference. Roads are being upgraded, new neighbourhoods are popping up, and the whole place feels like it’s levelling up. For investors, this kind of development is gold.
Take North West Preston, for example. I’ve seen new housing estates spring up there, and they’re already becoming sought-after areas. Better roads, better facilities—it all boosts demand and, in turn, property prices. It’s like getting in on the ground floor of something that’s only going to grow.
University of Central Lancashire Masterplan
The UCLan Masterplan, a £200 million investment in the campus, has brought state-of-the-art facilities and a new public square to the city. This isn’t just good for students—it’s brilliant for property investors.
An improved campus environment means more students are staying on-site longer and seeking nearby accommodation.
I’ve noticed that Preston studio flats within a 15-minute radius of the university have seen consistent capital growth over the past few years. In fact, demand has grown so much that purpose-built student accommodation blocks are now becoming a hot commodity in Preston.
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Preston City Centre Plan
The Preston City Centre Plan focuses on revitalising the area, from new shopping complexes to pedestrian-friendly streets. When this launched, I remember thinking how much it would affect property values—and it has. The improved aesthetics and functionality make the centre of the city a magnet for both students and young professionals.
If you’re considering investing in buy-to-let properties, keep an eye on areas adjacent to Preston’s centre. With more businesses setting up shop and leisure spaces popping up, tenants are willing to pay a premium for well-located housing.
Expert-Recommended Student Properties for Investment
Here are some expert-recommended new developments in and around Preston, ideal for student housing investment. These student apartments promise strong rental yields and consistently high tenant demand, making them excellent opportunities for investors.
Guildhall Gardens
Guildhall Gardens, located in the iconic Winckley Square Conservation District, is an absolute gem for student property investments. The mix of historic charm and sleek, modern apartments attracts everyone from students to short-term renters.
With 32 one-bedroom apartments and three two-bedroom units, all thoughtfully designed for comfort and style, it’s easy to see why this property stands out.
It’s a short stroll to UCLan, Fishergate Shopping Centre, and Market Hall, which means tenants won’t need to worry about transport.
As an investor, you’ll love how this location ticks all the boxes—proximity to everything and strong demand for high-end serviced apartments. With Preston’s economy growing and the area undergoing revitalisation, Guildhall Gardens is a solid bet.
£766 pcm
250 Years
Ready-Now
Q3 2023
Key Property Highlights:
- Includes 32 apartments with one bedroom and 3 apartments with two bedrooms. All of the furnishings are modern and stylish.
- Situated in Winckley Square, a famous area of Preston with locals, students, and visitors alike.
- Conveniently based near UCLan, Market Hall, and Fishergate Shopping Centre.
- Only 0.5 miles from Preston Train Station, making it easy for travellers and workers to get to and from work.
- Large demand for high-end serviced flats because of Preston’s booming economy and revitalisation.
Click Here to Find the Complete Project Overview
Angel Gardens
A quick 30-minute drive from Preston, Angel Gardens in Liverpool is another top pick, especially if you’re into eco-friendly developments.
This place screams “modern living” with features like green roofs, energy-efficient systems, and spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments. Students and young professionals love these sustainable touches—it’s a lifestyle choice as much as a living space.
It’s near Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter and John Moores University, so there’s no shortage of tenants. Angel Gardens can help you get up to 10% NET returns on rents, whether you’re interested in investing short-term or long-term.
For real estate investors, it’s a great choice if they want to rent to people who care about quality and the environment.
25%
999 Years
Off-Plan
Q4 2026
Key Property Highlights:
- Designed with green roofs, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems.
- Spacious Apartments: Offers one- and two-bedroom units, each larger than Liverpool’s average apartment size, with private balconies.
- 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
Berkeley Square
If you’re open to properties just outside Preston, Berkeley Square in Manchester is worth a look. This development is perfect for students and professionals wanting a modern, stylish flat close to the action. With spacious layouts and high-quality finishes, tenants love how it balances practicality and luxury.
Moreover, it’s close to universities, Deansgate, and the buzzing Spinningfields area, which means high rental demand is almost guaranteed. This property is a good choice for investors because it is in a good spot and has a lot of good tenants. Also, Manchester’s economy is growing, which means there’s a lot of room for wealth growth.
£1,065 pcm
250 Years
Off-Plan
Q2 - Q4 2026
Key Property Highlights:
- Just a 30-minute drive from Preston
- High-quality finishes and spacious layouts with a communal lounge area.
- 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
Sovereign Point
Sovereign Point offers something a little different—a luxurious waterfront setting just 30 minutes from Preston. It’s ideal for students or professionals looking for a balance between city energy and peaceful surroundings.
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.
£839 pcm
999 Years
Off-Plan
Q3 2025
Key Property Highlights:
- It only takes 30 minutes to get there from Lancashire, which is great for investors in Preston.
- Apartments with beautiful views of the River Mersey, which 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 live and 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
Dockside Residences
For tenants who value the environment, Liverpool’s Dockside Residences presents a stylish, sustainable choice. Eco-aware students and professionals find great appeal in these contemporary two-bedroom flats because of their high-performance insulation and solar energy systems.
These apartments have beautiful views and are near popular sites like Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool, and the Museum of Liverpool. Because of its great location and eco-friendliness, this is a great choice for investors who want to invest in both the short-term and long-term rental markets.
£1,250 pcm
250 Years
Ready-Now
6.14%
Key Property Highlights:
- BREEAM-certified and all-electric, with lights that use less energy.
- It has lovely views of the Mersey River and is close to many famous dockland attractions.
- 48 flats with two bedrooms that are environmentally friendly, with features like high-performance insulation and clean energy sources.
- Short-term rental approved, perfect for travellers and business professionals.
- 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
Paragon House
Paragon House in Trafford, just a 30-minute drive from Preston, is a high-end development with all the bells and whistles. With 115 spacious apartments featuring sleek, open-plan designs, this property attracts students and young professionals who want something more premium.
The location is a big draw—close to Old Trafford, Trafford Bar tram stop, and MediaCityUK. Plus, with features like a digital concierge and gated access, it offers the privacy and convenience that modern renters look for. It’s perfect if you’re targeting the higher end of the student rental market with high rental yield.
£1,183 pcm
£1,000
Ready-Now
10%
Key Property Highlights:
- An ideal place for Lancashire businesses, it’s only a 30-minute drive from Preston.
- There are 115 large flats with modern layouts and sliding doors that make the rooms feel like one big room.
- Social lounges, landscaped gardens, digital concierge, and gated entry.
- 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
Trafford Gardens
Trafford Gardens, just 35 miles from Preston, is designed with students and young professionals in mind. These 116 modern apartments come with balconies and premium amenities, giving renters a stylish, comfortable place to call home.
This is near the Trafford Bar tram stop and close to important business and cultural places. Trafford Gardens is a good investment option for people who want to serve Manchester’s growing student and professional markets. It is convenient with modern design and is in an area that is growing.
£1,300 pcm
250 Years
Off-Plan
Q3 2025
Key Property Highlights:
- Large one-, two–, and three-bedroom apartments are available with premium amenities.
- The property is just a 30-minute drive from Preston, making it convenient for local investors.
- 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.
- Close to essential facilities, food alternatives, and business centres.
- 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
These new build apartments provide a unique mix of location benefits, modern amenities, and proximity to major attractions in Lancashire, Preston, Liverpool, and Manchester. For investors who want to invest in student properties, these properties 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.
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
Why Preston is a Strong Choice for Property Investors
When it comes to property investment, Preston honestly ticks all the right boxes. It’s affordable, it’s growing, and it’s brimming with potential.
If you’re after a city with a thriving rental market, solid house price growth, and high tenant demand, Preston’s a no-brainer. Over the past few years, I’ve seen more and more investors cottoning on to what this city has to offer—and for good reason.
Let’s start with the big picture. city of Preston is on the rise. Thanks to projects like the City Deal and UCLan’s ambitious Masterplan, there’s a real buzz about the place. Infrastructure’s improving, urban developments are popping up, and new jobs are being created.
A property market that’s alive with opportunities. And here’s the kicker—house prices are still below the UK average, sitting at around £169,000.
That means you can get in at a reasonable price, enjoy decent yields, and watch your investment grow. Properties nearby the UCLan are especially popular, particularly with students and young professionals who want to live close to work, study, and nightlife.
And then there’s the affordability of this city. Compared to nearby Manchester or Liverpool, it’s a steal. For anyone just starting out in property investment or looking to expand their portfolio without breaking the bank, it’s ideal. And with house prices creeping up year after year, there’s plenty of room for capital growth too. It’s a win-win.
If you’re serious about building wealth through property investment, Preston is an excellent place to start. With its mix of affordability, high rental demand, and potential for long-term growth, it’s a city that offers a lot of bang for your buck.
To really get a clear picture of what’s possible, I’d suggest using a wealth-building calculator. It’s a brilliant way to break down your potential returns, whether it’s from rental income or long-term growth.
It takes the guesswork out of the equation and helps you make well-informed, strategic decisions for your property investment.
Strategically Handpicked Properties for Optimal Yield and Capital Appreciation
Types of Property Investment in Preston
Preston is a gem when it comes to investing in real estate. It has many options, so finding the right one relies on what you want: steady rental income, long-term capital growth, or maybe a mix of the two.
Buy to Let in Preston
Buy-to-let properties are a classic for a reason, and in Preston, they’re a particularly smart move. The city’s affordability means you can get started without breaking the bank, and the booming rental market keeps the demand steady.
I’ve seen buy to let investors secure fantastic yields with apartments near the city centre or key transport links. Whether you’re thinking about a modern flat or a family home, Preston has options that fit different budgets and strategies. The key is location—close to amenities, schools, and public transport is always a winner.
Student Property in Preston
Preston is bursting with students, thanks to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), and they all need somewhere to live. Investing in student accommodation here is a no-brainer if you’re after reliable tenants and good rental yields.
The best-performing properties are usually within walking distance of the university campus and come with features like bike storage and communal areas. Purpose-built student accommodation is also becoming popular—it’s great for investors who prefer something more hands-off and low maintenance.
As home to one of the UK’s largest universities and located near Edge Hill, Preston attracts a steady stream of students, boosting demand for rentals. This demographic, combined with the city’s young and growing population, creates a strong foundation for the student housing market, offering diverse property types for investment.
What are the Average House Prices in Preston?
One thing that investors like most about Preston is how affordable it is. The average home price in 2024 is about £169,000. That’s a great deal compared to nearby cities like Manchester or Liverpool, which is why more investors are coming to this city.
However, prices do change based on where you invest of course. Homes in Preston’s centre or near UCLan tend to be more expensive, but they also rent for more money.
You can find affordable choices with a lot of room for long-term growth if you look farther away, like in North West Preston or more suburban areas. It’s important to know what kind of return you want and how much money you have available.
Recommended Read: House Prices in Preston 2024
What is Preston’s Economy Like?
Preston’s economy is one of its secret weapons, and it’s a big reason why property investors are taking notice. The city has shown solid growth and resilience over the years, making it a reliable place to invest.
As of 2023, Preston’s GDP made up about 0.3% of England’s economy, putting it in the top third of non-metropolitan districts. Not bad for a city its size!
The local job market is also worth talking about. Preston supports around 104,000 jobs, with a job density that ranks it 11th among similar-sized districts in England.
That basically means there’s a high concentration of employment opportunities here, which helps keep demand for housing stable. Big companies like BAE Systems, Lancashire County Council and Preston City Council add a layer of job security to the area.
These numbers paint an interesting picture for investors who are interested in student real estate investment. The economy of Preston could use some work, but its growth and promise make it a good place to buy property to build a portfolio. It’s a place with a lot of potential for the future because it has both opportunities and low costs.
Preston’s reputation as an attractive hub is bolstered by its strong transport links and proximity to the Royal Preston Hospital. Its surrounding area, including South Ribble, offers a mix of urban convenience and suburban tranquility, appealing to both tenants and homeowners. These features place Preston high on the cities index as a desirable destination.
What Are the Top Areas to Invest in the Preston Student Property Market?
If you’re looking to invest in student property in Preston, location is the first thing to nail down. Preston students appreciate how near they are to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), how reasonable the housing is, and how convenient it is to reach stores, cafés, and nightlife.
Homes close enough to walk to school are always in great demand since they save children time and money on transportation costs. Plus, renters are more likely to be interested in a home if it is close to places like the city centre or student hubs.
Preston’s student accommodation market has a mix of traditional terraced houses, converted HMOs, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). The best areas to live in Preston that are buzzing with student activity, close to the university, and surrounded by cafés, pubs, and supermarkets tend to perform best.
These locations offer not just reliable occupancy but also premium rental rates, especially when the property is well-maintained or offers extras like bike storage or modern communal areas.
For investors, affordability is another big factor. Properties just slightly away from the college campus can offer a more budget-friendly entry point while still being within easy reach of everything students need.
These spots attract students looking for quieter or more affordable accommodation, such as postgraduate or mature students. With Preston’s excellent transport links, even areas a bit further out can remain viable investment opportunities, especially with the city’s consistent student demand.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, Preston is a great place to invest in student housing. Because it is affordable, there is a high demand for rentals, and it is still being built on, it is an interesting choice for both new and experienced owners.
The University of Central Lancashire attracts a regular influx of students, resulting in a consistent tenant base year after year. Add to that the city’s improving infrastructure, vibrant amenities, and competitive property prices, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for high yields and long-term growth.
It doesn’t matter if you’re investing in a converted HMO, a terraced house or a building that was specifically designed for students—what they value is ease, affordability, and being able to get to the lively community around them.
As home to one of the UK’s largest universities and located near Edge Hill, Preston attracts a steady stream of students, boosting demand for rentals. This demographic, combined with the city’s young and growing population, creates a strong foundation for the student housing market, offering diverse property types for investment.
All of that and more can be found in Preston, making it a place that always delivers for real estate investors. Preston is a great place to invest in real estate if you want to make money and take advantage of a market that is both growing and stable. The city is growing and is a great place to spend. It has a bright future ahead of it.
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