The average UK homebuyer’s search radius has narrowed to 3.4 miles in 2025, a decrease from 4.3 miles in 2021 during the pandemic ‘search for space’, Zoopla reveals.

The latest data from the property website shows that home buyers in the South East and East of England are most likely to search further afield, with 35% and 39%, respectively looking outside their immediate area at homes priced up to £60,000 less than where they live today.

Meanwhile, London buyers, particularly in areas like Uxbridge and Harrow, are actively widening their search for homes up to £290,000 below the cost locally.

Homebuyers in northern England and the Midlands, especially in cities such as Liverpool and Bradford, largely search for properties within a five-mile radius, with 70% staying local.

This compares to buyers in the most rural parts of the UK, including the Scottish Hebrides where 90% look over 10 miles away and in Llandrindod Wells 77% typically move further afield for lifestyle reasons.

Zoopla executive director Richard Donnell says: “Home buying decisions and search patterns are being reshaped by the affordability of housing. The old adage that most people move within five miles of where they live today is being challenged, especially for those wanting to live in southern England where housing costs are greatest.”

“More home buyers are looking further afield in search of better value for money so today’s home buyers need more tools and insights to help them plan their next move.”