Cornwall, the picturesque region nestled in the far southwest of England, has long been known for its rugged coastline, charming villages, and vibrant cultural scene. With an ever-increasing number of people looking to relocate to this idyllic part of the country, Cornwall’s property market has been experiencing considerable growth in recent years. For those considering a property investment in 2025, Cornwall is emerging as one of the best places to live in Cornwall due to its unique combination of natural beauty, strong demand, and long-term potential for investors. In this article, we’ll explore why Cornwall should be on the radar for property investors looking to capitalise on the area’s growth in the coming years.
The Appeal of Cornwall: A Land of Opportunities
Before delving into why Cornwall is a promising investment destination, it’s important to understand why the region has seen such increasing demand in recent years. Several factors contribute to Cornwall’s appeal, making it one of the best places to live in Cornwall for both residents and investors alike.
1. Natural Beauty and Lifestyle Appeal
Cornwall’s stunning natural landscape, with its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming countryside, continues to draw people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. The county has a reputation for offering a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle, while still being well-connected to larger cities like Exeter and Plymouth. In recent years, many people have chosen to move to Cornwall from other parts of the UK, seeking the tranquillity of coastal living alongside the benefits of excellent transport links and a growing local economy.
For property investors, this lifestyle appeal is key. Cornwall is an attractive location for people looking for a second home, a holiday let, or a more permanent place to settle. This trend is expected to continue as more individuals and families seek a healthier, less stressful lifestyle while still maintaining access to employment and amenities.
2. Strong Demand for Rental Properties
Cornwall has always been a popular destination for holidaymakers, and its tourism industry remains a significant part of the local economy. As the demand for holiday homes and short-term rentals continues to rise, the rental property market in Cornwall is expanding, offering lucrative opportunities for investors. With its scenic beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, Cornwall continues to attract visitors year-round, leading to high demand for quality rental properties.
In particular, areas like St Ives, Falmouth, and Newquay are well-known for their thriving tourism industries, making them prime locations for holiday lets and short-term rentals. For investors seeking high returns, buying property in these areas can prove to be an excellent strategy.
Cornwall’s Property Market in 2025: What to Expect
As we move into 2025, Cornwall’s property market is showing no signs of slowing down. The growing demand for homes, especially from those looking to relocate or invest in holiday properties, combined with ongoing regeneration projects, means the county is set for continued growth in the years ahead.
1. Rising Property Values
Property prices in Cornwall have been steadily increasing, with areas that were once considered more affordable now seeing a surge in value. Towns like Truro, the county’s administrative capital, and places such as Penzance and Liskeard are starting to experience more upward pressure on prices as more buyers and investors take notice of the region’s potential.
Although Cornwall has traditionally been seen as an affordable area compared to cities like London or Bristol, this is changing as more people look to move to the region for its lifestyle benefits. With remote working becoming more common, many individuals are no longer tied to living in major cities, and Cornwall is becoming an increasingly desirable location for those seeking a rural, coastal lifestyle with convenient transport links to major cities.
2. The Rise of Regeneration Projects
The Cornwall Council and local authorities have been investing in several regeneration projects across the county, particularly in towns that have historically been less in the spotlight. From improvements in local infrastructure to new housing developments and transport links, these initiatives are having a significant impact on the local property market.
For example, the regeneration of parts of Newquay, with its growing tech sector, and the development of areas such as Bodmin, which is attracting new businesses, are transforming these towns into vibrant communities with excellent prospects for future growth. Property investors can take advantage of these changes by looking at areas that are undergoing regeneration, as these offer a higher potential for capital appreciation.
3. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Properties
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor for homebuyers, and Cornwall is at the forefront of this movement. Many properties in the region are now being built or renovated with eco-friendly features such as solar panels, energy-efficient insulation, and rainwater harvesting systems. Additionally, Cornwall’s natural beauty has led to a growing interest in sustainable tourism, with eco-conscious buyers prioritising energy-efficient homes and sustainable building practices.
For property investors looking to capitalise on Cornwall’s growing market, focusing on eco-friendly properties can be a smart move. There is a growing demand for sustainable homes, particularly in environmentally aware areas like Falmouth and St Ives. Investors who recognise this trend and invest in properties that offer both sustainability and charm will likely see strong long-term returns.
Best Areas for Investment in Cornwall
When it comes to investing in Cornwall’s property market, some areas stand out as particularly promising for buyers in 2025. Here are some of the best places to live in Cornwall for investors seeking high potential returns:
1. St Ives: A Seaside Gem
St Ives is one of Cornwall’s most famous towns, known for its beautiful beaches, lively art scene, and fantastic restaurants. Over the past decade, property prices in St Ives have risen significantly, driven by the town’s popularity as a holiday destination. The town offers a mix of traditional cottages, modern apartments, and luxury homes, making it ideal for both permanent residents and holidaymakers.
As a result, St Ives continues to be a prime location for holiday let investors. The town’s popularity with tourists, combined with its strong sense of community, makes it one of Cornwall’s top spots for property investment in 2025.
2. Falmouth: A Vibrant Harbour Town
Falmouth, with its vibrant culture and strong maritime heritage, is fast becoming one of Cornwall’s most sought-after locations. The town is home to a major university and a thriving local economy, which is attracting young professionals and families. With a large number of properties close to the harbour and an ever-growing selection of amenities, Falmouth is one of the best places to live in Cornwall for those seeking a balance between work, leisure, and natural beauty.
The property market in Falmouth has shown strong growth in recent years, and it remains a top location for both residential and holiday let investors.
3. Newquay: The Surfing Capital
Newquay has long been a favourite for surfers and tourists, but it is now emerging as a popular choice for young professionals and families seeking to live by the sea. With its excellent transport links, Newquay has become a thriving hub for businesses, particularly within the digital and creative sectors. Property prices in Newquay have been steadily rising, and the town offers great potential for investors looking to buy into the area’s growing economy.
Newquay’s wide variety of properties, from beachside apartments to family homes, means there’s something for everyone. The town’s holiday rental market remains strong, making it an attractive proposition for investors seeking both short-term returns and long-term growth.
Conclusion
In 2025, Cornwall’s property market continues to evolve, driven by a growing demand for homes, exciting regeneration projects, and an increasing focus on sustainability. With its natural beauty, lifestyle appeal, and diverse range of property types, Cornwall remains one of the best places to live in Cornwall for both residents and investors alike.
For property investors, Cornwall offers a wealth of opportunities, particularly in areas like St Ives, Falmouth, and Newquay, where demand for both residential and holiday let properties is high. As the region continues to grow and attract more people seeking a better quality of life, investing in Cornwall’s property market is an opportunity that should not be overlooked in 2025.
