Richmond upon Thames named happiest place to live

Richmond upon Thames has been awarded the title of Britain’s happiest place to live in the 2026 Happy at Home Index, compiled by property portal Rightmove. This marks a return to the top spot for the London borough, which previously held the position in 2023.

The survey, which gathered responses from more than 24,000 individuals, found that four-fifths of participants, equivalent to 81%, are content with their current home location. Richmond upon Thames achieved its high ranking due to strong scores in several categories, including access to green spaces and nature, local amenities such as shops and restaurants, and employment prospects.

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Factors contributing to happiness

Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, noted that Richmond upon Thames offers a desirable combination of natural beauty and everyday convenience. "That balance between greenery and everyday convenience runs through the wider findings," Babcock stated. She added that even those preferring a rural setting still value proximity to amenities, parks, and public transport.

The Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Councillor Nancy Baldwin, highlighted the residents' pride in their local area, its parks, green spaces, and essential services. "Above all, it is our people and communities that make Richmond special," she said, as reported by The Standard.

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Property prices and other rankings

Living in Richmond upon Thames comes with a significant financial commitment. The average asking price for a property in the borough stands at £1,021,256. This contrasts sharply with other locations in the top 10, such as second-placed Harrogate in North Yorkshire, where the average asking price is £395,776.

Other London boroughs also featured in the regional rankings, with Kensington and Chelsea ranking second within London and 12th overall. Kingston upon Thames was third in London and 13th overall. Nationally, after Richmond upon Thames, Harrogate and Cirencester in Gloucestershire secured the second and third positions respectively.

Estate agents commented that families are attracted to Richmond for its schools and open spaces, often remaining due to a strong community feel. The proximity to Richmond Park, the Thames, and a vibrant town centre, combined with easy access to central London, contributes to its appeal.