St Andrews has been officially named Scotland’s most expensive coastal location to buy a home, according to the latest Bank of Scotland Coastal Homes Review. The historic Fife town, renowned for its world-famous university and iconic golf courses, now commands an average property price of £423,419, edging out North Berwick for the top spot.
The review, which tracks house price movements across 54 Scottish coastal locations, reveals that St Andrews has overtaken North Berwick, whose average property price dipped to £421,613 following six years at the top. Dunbar, also in East Lothian, rounds out the top three with an average price of £304,569.
St Andrews’ enduring appeal stems from its blend of historic charm, vibrant cultural scene, boutique shopping, and fine dining. The town’s limited size and conservation policies restrict new developments, further fuelling demand. Its sizeable student population and year-round tourism also contribute to a buoyant buy-to-let market.
While St Andrews sits at the pinnacle, the average price for a home by the Scottish seaside now stands at £184,224, up 1% in 2023. This growth outpaces the -4% decrease seen across Britain’s coastal markets, highlighting Scotland’s relative resilience and ongoing demand for seaside living.
Over the past decade, Scottish coastal property prices have risen by 31% on average. Some towns have seen even sharper increases; Cockenzie and Anstruther recorded gains of 72% and 70% respectively since 2013. Invergordon in the Highlands saw the largest year-on-year growth in 2023, with average prices rising by 34% to £154,293.
Scotland’s Most and Least Expensive Coastal Locations
Below is a snapshot of the most and least expensive coastal towns in Scotland, based on average property prices:
| Rank | Coastal Location | Average House Price (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | St Andrews | £423,419 |
| 2 | North Berwick | £421,613 |
| 3 | Dunbar | £304,569 |
| 4 | Anstruther | £285,160 |
| 5 | Helensburgh | £254,261 |
At the other end of the spectrum, Rothesay on the Isle of Bute remains the most affordable coastal location in Britain, with an average property price of just £101,477. Other budget-friendly Scottish coastal towns include Greenock (£107,111), Girvan (£107,349), and Millport (£113,622).
The Bigger Picture
Graham Blair, Mortgages Director at Bank of Scotland, remarked: “Scotland’s stunning coastline and breathtaking scenery make it a wonderful place for many to call home.
“For buyers looking to live by the sea, Scotland offers real value in comparison to coastal areas in other parts of Britain.”
While the most sought-after locations continue to command premium prices, there are still plenty of affordable options for buyers willing to look beyond traditional hotspots. However, the review also highlights challenges facing some coastal communities, including housing affordability, seasonal economies, and access to services.
St Andrews’ new status as Scotland’s priciest coastal location underscores the ongoing desirability of seaside living in Fife, driven by a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Yet, Scotland’s coastline remains one of the most accessible in Britain, offering a diverse range of options for buyers at every price point
