Is it worth it buying property in Cambridge (England) in 2025?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the UK Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Cambridge's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

INVESTROPA

A team specialized in real estate investing in European countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Cambridge. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At INVESTROPA, we explore the Cambridge real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Cambridge, London, and Oxford. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What types of properties are available in Cambridge right now?

Cambridge offers a diverse mix of property types to suit different budgets and preferences in 2025.

Flats and apartments dominate the Cambridge property market, ranging from period conversions in Victorian buildings to modern new-build developments. These properties span from shared ownership schemes for first-time buyers to luxury penthouses in premium developments. The Cambridge apartment market includes both studio flats for students and spacious two-bedroom units for professionals.

Houses in Cambridge include terraced, semi-detached, and detached homes across various price points. Victorian terraced houses are particularly popular in central areas, while larger family homes are available in suburban locations. The Cambridge house market offers everything from compact two-bedroom terraces to substantial four-bedroom family homes with gardens.

New build developments are significant in Cambridge, with major projects in Eddington, Trumpington, and Cherry Hinton delivering energy-efficient homes with modern amenities. These Cambridge new builds typically feature contemporary designs, integrated technology, and sustainable building standards that appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

Period homes, especially Victorian and Edwardian properties, remain highly sought after in Cambridge's established residential areas, offering character features like high ceilings, original fireplaces, and period details that many buyers prize.

Where exactly should I look to buy in Cambridge?

The best areas in Cambridge vary significantly depending on your priorities for affordability, growth potential, or prestige.

Area Type	Best Locations	Price Range	Key Benefits	Main Drawbacks
Affordable/Growth	Chesterton, Arbury, King's Hedges	£300,000-£500,000	Better value, improving transport, good yields	Less prestigious, further from centre
Trendy/Up-and-coming	Mill Road, Petersfield, Romsey	£400,000-£650,000	Vibrant culture, close to centre, young professionals	Busy areas, parking challenges
Family-Friendly	Trumpington, Cherry Hinton	£450,000-£750,000	New developments, good schools, green spaces	Some distance from city centre
Prestigious	Newnham, Grantchester	£800,000+	Leafy, excellent schools, period homes	Very expensive, limited supply
Investment/Rental	City Centre (CB1, CB2, CB3)	£500,000+	High rental demand, walkable, premium rents	Highest prices, limited parking
Suburban Value	Girton, Histon, Milton	£350,000-£600,000	More affordable, rural feel, family-friendly	Commute required, less urban amenities
Student Areas	Near colleges, cycling distance	£250,000-£450,000	Consistent rental demand, established market	Seasonal variations, wear and tear

What's the current property pricing situation in Cambridge?

Cambridge property prices have experienced significant growth in 2025, with the average property price reaching £507,000 as of June 2025.

Property prices in Cambridge increased by 7.4% year-on-year from March 2024 to March 2025, demonstrating the continued strength of the Cambridge residential market. Terraced houses showed the strongest growth at 8.2%, while detached properties increased by 5.8%. The Cambridge property market continues to outperform many other UK regions due to strong local economic fundamentals.

By property type, detached houses in Cambridge average £1,017,000, semi-detached properties cost around £634,000, terraced houses average £519,000, and flats typically sell for £331,000. First-time buyers in Cambridge face an average price point of £428,000, reflecting the premium nature of the local market.

Cambridge property price forecasts for 2025 suggest continued moderate growth driven by the technology sector, university employment, major infrastructure projects, and persistent housing supply constraints. However, affordability challenges may begin to moderate the pace of price increases as buyers reach their financial limits.

It's something we develop in our Cambridge property pack.

How much would I need to budget to buy something decent in Cambridge?

Your budget in Cambridge determines significantly different property options and locations available to you in 2025.

With £300,000-£400,000, you can typically purchase a one or two-bedroom flat in Cambridge, either through shared ownership schemes or older apartment blocks in outer areas. This budget might also stretch to a small two-bedroom house in Cambridge's northern or southern suburbs, though options will be limited and likely require some updating.

A budget of £400,000-£600,000 opens up significantly more options in Cambridge, including two to three-bedroom terraced or semi-detached houses in suburban areas like Arbury, King's Hedges, or Cherry Hinton. You could also purchase a modern two-bedroom flat in more central Cambridge locations within this price range.

With £600,000-£900,000, you can access larger three to four-bedroom family homes in Cambridge, including new build properties in developments like Trumpington or well-maintained period terraces in popular residential areas. This budget provides good options for families seeking space and amenities.

Properties over £1 million in Cambridge typically include large detached homes, prestigious period properties in areas like Newnham or Grantchester, or premium apartments in the city centre with exceptional features and locations.

Is it smarter to rent or buy in Cambridge in 2025?

The decision between renting and buying in Cambridge depends on your timeline, financial situation, and long-term goals in 2025.

Renting in Cambridge costs approximately £1,715 per month on average as of late 2024, with the rental market showing signs of cooling in Q1 2025. The Cambridge rental market has shifted toward a "renter's market" with more property choices and slower rent growth after years of significant increases. Renting offers flexibility for those uncertain about long-term Cambridge residence and requires lower upfront costs.

Buying property in Cambridge requires substantial upfront investment including 10-15% deposits, stamp duty, legal fees, and survey costs. However, Cambridge property values have historically appreciated consistently, and the market shows resilience due to strong economic fundamentals from the university and technology sectors.

If you plan to stay in Cambridge for five years or more, buying likely provides better financial outcomes given projected property appreciation and the building of equity. For shorter stays or uncertain timelines, renting offers more flexibility and lower financial risk. The Cambridge property market's strong fundamentals support long-term ownership as a wealth-building strategy.

Cambridge's high property prices mean the break-even point between renting and buying occurs later than in many other UK locations, making careful financial planning essential.

What are the main real estate market trends in Cambridge this year?

Cambridge's real estate market in 2025 shows several distinct trends shaping buyer and investor activity.

Buyer activity in Cambridge remains robust, particularly for energy-efficient properties and larger family homes as remote work arrangements continue influencing housing preferences. The Cambridge property market sees strong demand from technology sector employees, university staff, and international buyers attracted to the city's global reputation.

Property inventory in Cambridge continues to be constrained, especially for family homes and period properties in desirable locations. While new build developments in areas like Eddington and Trumpington are increasing supply, construction is not keeping pace with demand, supporting continued price growth in the Cambridge residential market.

Investor and expat interest in Cambridge property remains high, driven by the expanding technology corridor, university stability, and tourism appeal. International buyers particularly value Cambridge's combination of investment potential and lifestyle benefits, though additional stamp duty surcharges affect non-resident purchases.

The Cambridge rental market experienced a cooling trend in early 2025 after years of double-digit rent growth, but underlying demand remains strong due to continued population growth and employment opportunities in the region.

What are the key steps to buying a property in Cambridge?

Buying property in Cambridge follows the standard UK process but requires careful planning due to the competitive market conditions.

1. **Establish your budget and secure mortgage pre-approval** - Get a Decision in Principle from lenders to understand your borrowing capacity and demonstrate serious intent to sellers in Cambridge's competitive market.2. **Search for suitable properties** - Use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket, plus work with established local Cambridge estate agents who understand the nuances of different neighborhoods.3. **View properties and make competitive offers** - In Cambridge's market, successful offers often exceed asking prices, particularly for desirable properties in popular areas or those with unique features.4. **Appoint a qualified solicitor or conveyancer** - Choose someone experienced with Cambridge property transactions who can handle legal checks, searches, and contract negotiations efficiently.5. **Arrange comprehensive surveys and valuations** - This step is particularly important for Cambridge's many period properties which may have hidden issues requiring professional assessment.6. **Exchange contracts and pay deposit** - Typically 10-20% of purchase price, with non-UK residents often required to provide larger deposits due to additional lending criteria.7. **Complete the purchase and arrange move-in** - Final payment, key collection, and property transfer occur on completion day.**For non-UK residents:** Additional requirements include the 2% stamp duty surcharge, stricter lending criteria, proof of funds, and compliance with UK property ownership regulations.

Where can I actually find properties in Cambridge?

Finding properties in Cambridge requires using multiple channels due to the competitive market and varying property types available.

Online property platforms provide the most comprehensive Cambridge property listings, with Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket offering the largest selections. These platforms allow filtering by price, property type, location, and features specific to Cambridge areas and requirements.

Established local Cambridge estate agents offer valuable market knowledge and access to properties before they reach online platforms. Leading agents include Savills, haart, Martin & Co, Cooke Curtis & Co, Cheffins, and Cambridge Property Lettings, each with particular strengths in different Cambridge neighborhoods or property types.

Property investment networks provide opportunities to connect with other Cambridge investors and access off-market opportunities. The Cambridge Property Investors Network and Progressive Property Network offer networking events and market insights for investment-focused buyers.

Direct contact with property developers can provide early access to new build developments in Cambridge, particularly in areas like Eddington, Trumpington, and Cherry Hinton where significant construction is ongoing.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in the UK versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What's the cost of living like in Cambridge overall?

Cambridge ranks among the most expensive UK cities outside London, with living costs significantly impacting property affordability calculations.

Monthly living costs in Cambridge average approximately £1,240 including accommodation, food, transport, and miscellaneous expenses. Housing represents the largest expense, with rental accommodation averaging £815 per month for students, while private market rents exceed £1,700 monthly for typical properties.

Food costs in Cambridge average around £190 monthly, reflecting both the city's affluent demographics and limited competition among retailers. Transport costs benefit from excellent cycling infrastructure and reasonable public transport, though car ownership adds significant expenses due to limited parking and congestion charges in central areas.

Council tax, utilities, and services in Cambridge align with other southern UK cities but represent substantial ongoing costs for property owners and residents. Professional services, healthcare, and education generally command premium prices reflecting the city's high-skilled workforce and international population.

Compared to other UK cities, Cambridge living costs approach those of outer London areas while offering superior quality of life, safety, and cultural amenities. The combination of high salaries in technology and university sectors partially offsets these elevated living costs for many residents.

What's life in Cambridge like for expats?

Cambridge offers an exceptional quality of life for international residents, combining world-class amenities with manageable city size and strong community connections.

The Cambridge job market excels in technology, academia, biotechnology, and research sectors, providing excellent opportunities for skilled international professionals. Employment rates remain high, and the concentration of innovative companies creates substantial career advancement opportunities for expats with relevant experience.

Educational options in Cambridge include outstanding state schools in sought-after catchment areas and prestigious private institutions. The city's international character means schools are experienced with multicultural student populations, and university connections provide additional educational resources and opportunities.

Healthcare services combine NHS provision with private medical options, meeting international standards expected by expat residents. The proximity to London also provides access to specialized medical services when required.

Cambridge's international community creates strong social networks for expats, with numerous cultural events, professional associations, and social groups facilitating integration. The city's compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout make it easy to build connections and navigate daily life.

It's something we develop in our Cambridge property pack.

What about long-term rental investment in Cambridge?

Cambridge's rental market offers strong fundamentals for buy-to-let investors, though yields reflect the premium property prices in the area.

Tenant demand in Cambridge remains consistently high from diverse groups including university students, academic staff, technology professionals, and international residents. The stable employment base and continuous population growth create reliable rental demand across different property types and locations.

The best areas for Cambridge rental investment include the city centre for premium rents, Chesterton and Mill Road for diverse tenant appeal, Petersfield and Romsey for young professionals, and Trumpington and Cherry Hinton for families. Each area attracts different tenant demographics with varying rental requirements and lease terms.

Rental rates in Cambridge typically range from £1,200 to £2,500 monthly depending on property size, condition, and location. Central Cambridge properties command the highest rents, while suburban areas offer better value for space. Rental yields generally achieve 3-4% in central areas and up to 4% in outer suburbs.

Tenants in Cambridge prioritize proximity to the university, good transport connections, access to green spaces, and modern amenities. Properties meeting these criteria maintain higher occupancy rates and can justify premium rents in the competitive market.

What about short-term rental opportunities in Cambridge?

Short-term rental opportunities in Cambridge benefit from strong tourism, business travel, and academic visitor demand throughout the year.

High-demand areas for Cambridge short-term rentals include the city centre for tourists and business travelers, areas near the station and CB1 for corporate visitors, Chesterton for mixed business and leisure guests, Newnham for affluent visitors, and Trumpington for medical and corporate professionals visiting nearby facilities.

The typical Cambridge short-term rental clientele includes tourists exploring the historic city and surrounding areas, business travelers attending meetings or conferences, visiting academics and researchers, and medical professionals working at local healthcare facilities. This diverse demand creates year-round occupancy potential.

Short-term rental income in Cambridge typically exceeds long-term rental returns on a nightly basis, with strong occupancy rates in central locations supporting profitable operations. However, management requirements and regulatory compliance create additional complexity compared to traditional buy-to-let investments.

Legal requirements for Cambridge short-term rentals include compliance with local council regulations, planning permissions where required, and tax obligations. Operators must check for specific restrictions such as the 90-day annual limit for certain properties and any licensing requirements imposed by Cambridge City Council.

It's something we develop in our Cambridge property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Rightmove Cambridge Property Listings
2. ONS Cambridge House Prices
3. Cambridge City Council Housing Data
4. Zoopla Cambridge First Time Buyers
5. Cambridge Buy-to-Let Investment Guide
6. Bidwells Cambridge Rental Market Report
7. Cambridge Serviced Accommodation Investment
8. University of Cambridge Living Costs
9. Cambridge Estate Agents Directory
10. Rent vs Buy in Cambridge Analysis