Skipton has again been included in the top 20 ‘happiest places to live’ in the UK, ranked 6th nationally.
The list has been created by the Happy at Home Index and published by Rightmove.
It asks residents how they feel about their area and was completed by over 26,000 people this year based on happiness factors.
Skipton was ranked in sixth place and is one of only four locations in the North of England to make the top 20 - along with Hexham (10th), Harrogate (12th) and Kendal (14th). The overall national winner was Richmond-upon-Thames in west London.
Skipton's average house asking price during this year was £259,692 and the average asking rent per calendar month was £875.
Some of the key trends from this year’s report include feeling a sense of pride, alongside a feeling of belonging and community.
Having access to things like public transport, schools and job opportunities also added to residents’ feeling of happiness.
One of the key trends to emerge from this year’s study is that those living in rural areas are more likely to be happy where they live than city residents, especially those living near a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (recently renamed National Landscapes). Those who live in a rural environment, for example in the countryside or villages, were more likely to say they were happy where they live than residents of urban or suburban cities and towns.
Delving deeper into the findings, residents who live near woodland, mountains, the coast or a river, were more likely to be happy in their area than those who live in a built-up area. The analysis showed that having access to nature and green spaces is more important to residents than having access to public transport, shops and restaurants, and employment opportunities.
The full list is as follows:
- Richmond-upon-Thames, London
- Winchester, Hampshire
- Monmouth, Monmouthshire
- Wokingham, Berkshire
- Cirencester, Gloucestershire
- Skipton, North Yorkshire
- Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire
- Kensington and Chelsea, London
- St Ives, Cornwall
- Hexham, Northumberland
- Leigh-on-Sea, Essex
- Harrogate, North Yorkshire
- Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
- Kendal, Cumbria
- Galashiels, Scottish borders
- Weymouth, Dorset
- Woodbridge, Suffolk
- Anglesey, Wales
- St Albans, Hertfordshire
- Stourbridge, West Midlands
Skipton event planned for private landlords
World-class tennis returns with Ilkley Trophy
Exploring Ilkley Moor: Free guided walks and educational events
Young BGT magician includes Ilkley in tour
Ilkley's newly elected Deputy and Town Mayor
Company behind Skipton food and drink festival ceases trading
Residents spring into action for a fairer deal for Ilkley District
District's first average speed cameras installed on A650
Group that helps people connect with nature to get new home in park building
What are the top priorities for Ilkley? Share your thoughts in the community consultation
Nick Hancock returns to breakfast radio in Skipton and Ilkley
Silsden store supports local NHS Charity at fashion show fundraiser
Leading environmentalist tells Ilkley to get real about climate crisis
Local Pride groups receive new patron
Outside the Box hosts ‘Thank You’ EP launch
Silsden quarry blocked after Planning Inspector rejects appeal
Friends of Ilkley Railway Station share results of public consultation
Grade II listed structure at Keighley station needs urgent repairs
The Hive to host Silsden community fun day
18 local businesses compete in 5-a-side event
