As house prices continue their steady climb, new research highlights a surprising, yet significant, factor that could add tens of thousands to your property's value: a sea view. According to a comprehensive analysis by leading property platform Rightmove, homes boasting a vista of the ocean are, on average, a staggering £88,106 more expensive than comparable properties without such a coveted outlook. This represents a substantial 32% price premium across Great Britain.
The study, which delved into over 200 coastal areas, found that the average asking price for a home with a sea view stands at £363,181, significantly higher than the £275,074 average for properties in coastal regions lacking this picturesque feature. Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, affirmed the enduring allure: "Sea views have always been a highly sought-after feature for homebuyers, and our latest research highlights just how much more people are willing to pay for one."
Regional Premiums: Where the View Pays Most
While a sea view universally adds value, the extent of that premium varies dramatically across regions. The East Midlands takes the top spot for the highest regional premium, where homes with sea views average an impressive £428,330 – a remarkable 68% premium over properties without a view. This makes them the most expensive on this metric nationwide. Babcock suggests that the exclusivity of such properties in these areas could be a significant contributing factor to this stark difference.
The South West follows closely, with sea-view homes commanding a 44% premium, averaging £405,676. Scotland also sees a substantial uplift, with a 43% premium, pushing sea-view properties to typically £218,867 compared to £152,606 for non-sea-view homes in the region. In contrast, the South East, despite its extensive coastline, exhibits a comparatively lower sea view premium of 22%.
Where to Find Your Dream Sea View Home (and Its Cost)
For those actively seeking a property with a sea view in 2025, Rightmove's data indicates that Torbay in Devon offers the highest number of available listings with this desirable feature. It's followed by popular coastal hubs such as Bournemouth and Cornwall, making these areas prime locations for view-seekers.
Here's a detailed regional breakdown of the average asking price premium for coastal properties with sea views:
East Midlands:
- Non-sea view: £254,544
- Sea view: £428,330
- Price premium: 68%
South West:
- Non-sea view: £280,185
- Sea view: £405,676
- Price premium: 44%
Scotland:
- Non-sea view: £152,606
- Sea view: £218,867
- Price premium: 43%
North East:
- Non-sea view: £180,258
- Sea view: £231,194
- Price premium: 28%
Yorkshire and The Humber:
- Non-sea view: £152,151
- Sea view: £193,711
- Price premium: 27%
North West:
- Non-sea view: £159,322
- Sea view: £201,292
- Price premium: 26%
East of England:
- Non-sea view: £242,443
- Sea view: £305,264
- Price premium: 25%
Wales:
- Non-sea view: £240,017
- Sea view: £298,824
- Price premium: 24%
South East:
- Non-sea view: £300,612
- Sea view: £367,209
- Price premium: 22%
Great Britain (average):
- Non-sea view: £275,074
- Sea view: £363,181
- Price premium: 32%
This compelling data underscores that for those looking to maximize their property's appeal and value, a stunning sea view remains one of the most powerful assets a home can possess.