The best areas to live in the UK for a successful self-isolation

The latest research by Hamilton Fraser’s deposit replacement scheme, Ome, has investigated the most affordable locations across the UK with the lowest population to maximise the chances of successful self-isolation during the current COVID-19 pandemic, whilst also avoiding those still yet to master the art of sitting on the sofa.

Ome looked at the estimated population of every area of the UK coupled with its size to find the number of people populating each square kilometre. Using these figures, Ome then explored the areas that are home to a population density of 100 people per sq km or less and which were also home to the lowest rental costs.

Ranking these areas provided Ome with a list of the most affordable rental locations with the lowest chance of bumping into people during our once-daily outside exercise during the current lockdown.

The research shows that Carmarthenshire is the most affordable rental location for successful self-isolation. The area is home to an estimated population of 187,568 people across 2,370 square kilometres, resulting in a population density of 79 people for every square kilometre. It is also home to an average monthly rent of £458, making it the most affordable of all areas with 100 people or less per square kilometre.

Wales is the place to go for successful self-isolation with Powys the next best option, home to 26 people per sq km and an average rental cost of £462 per month, while Pembrokeshire ranking third with 77 people per sq km and an average monthly rental cost of £471.

Outside of Wales, Fermanagh and Omagh are your next best bet with 41 people per sq km and a rental cost of £482 per month. Dumfries and Galloway are also the best areas for self-isolation in Scotland with a rental cost of £490 per month and just 23 people per sq km.

In England, Copeland, East Lindsey and Allerdale are the best places to successfully self-isolate, with the average monthly rents sitting between £511-£517 and between 79 and 93 people per sq km.

In London, population density is far higher making self-isolation more difficult, however, Bromley is home to the lowest number of people per sq hm at 2,207. In fact, just three boroughs are home to less than 3,000 people per sq km, the most affordable of which is Havering with the average monthly rent at £1,169. Hillingdon ranks second with rent sitting at £1,270 per month, followed by Bromley at £1,321.

Co-founder of Ome, Matthew Hooker, commented:

“The advice from the Government is clear. Stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. The areas identified by our research have found the most affordable locations for successful self-isolation and minimal risk of bumping into the small minority of people still flouting the rules.

Whilst our research is definitely more aspirational than realistic at this present time it may, however, make for interesting reading for those thinking of moving once the lockdown and COVID-19 are a distant memory. Although, for now, we must continue to adhere to the Government guidance and stay put!

During an uncertain time, many tenants and landlords have become concerned over the flexibility currently afforded by the private rented sector. Cash flow is now more important than ever and the disruption to our everyday lives caused by the pandemic has highlighted, now more than ever, the need for market choice, transparency and support. As a provider of a deposit replacement scheme, it is our responsibility to assist tenants, landlords and agents providing them with the freedom to adjust, adapt and overcome, but to ultimately come out stronger.”