Coastal towns house most expensive properties – Daily Business

Almost half of Scotland’s most expensive properties are in coastal areas as homeowners seek a blend of lifestyle, character and good amenities in a local community.

Registers of Scotland data, analysed by Retties, shows Fife and East Lothian are home to nine of the top 10 coastal towns by average price. 

Coastal towns now command an average of £325,000, compared with a national average of £230,000.

Elie and Earlsferry in Fife sits top with an average price close to £572,000. Gullane in East Lothian takes second spot at £522,000, while Longniddry (£485,349), also in East Lothian, beats St Andrews (£458,733) and North Berwick (£454,844) for third spot.

Others in the top bracket include Aberdour (£393,611), Findhorn (£362,767), Pittenweem (£347,700), Crail (£335,335), and Dunbar (£324,625).

Since 2019, Longniddry and St Andrews have recorded the highest growth of the Top 5 coastal towns, up by 39% and 33% respectively. 

Dr John Boyle, Rettie’s director for strategy and research, said: “Coastal settlements in Scotland are much sought after, particularly on the East Coast.

“The demand to live in these areas comfortably exceeds the supply available.”

George Lorimer, director at the firm, said: “St Andrews and Elie and Earlsferry continue to demonstrate the enduring strength of Fife’s coastal market. 

“St Andrews itself remains one of Scotland’s most consistently sought after destinations, underpinned by its global profile, exceptional amenities and the steady demand generated by the university and the town’s world-renowned golf heritage.” 

Commenting on the East Lothian coastal housing market, Emma Hay, associate director, town and country homes at Rettie, said: “East Lothian’s coastal towns and villages continue to stand out among Scotland’s most resilient and desirable property markets. 

“Each town offers its own unique blend of lifestyle, connectivity and coastal character, yet all share the same underlying strength of demand consistently outstripping supply.

“Longniddry’s exceptional growth over recent years, Gullane’s enduring appeal as a premium lifestyle destination, and North Berwick’s stability at the top end of the market collectively underline the depth and durability of buyer appetite here.  These communities represent the very best of east coast living.”