Richmond upon Thames has been named Britain’s happiest place to live in 2026, topping Rightmove’s annual Happy at Home Index for the second time in three years.
The leafy borough was praised for its blend of green spaces, community spirit and access to amenities. But happiness there comes at a price: the average asking price for a home in Richmond now stands at £1,021,256.
Nancy Baldwin, councillor and mayor of Richmond upon Thames, said: “This recognition is especially meaningful because residents highlighted their pride in the local area, our beautiful parks and green spaces, and the local services they rely on every day.”
“Above all, it is our people and communities that make Richmond special.”
The Rightmove survey, now in its 15th year, gathered responses from more than 24,000 people. Richmond was previously named the happiest place to live in 2023 and finished second last year. Across Britain, 81 per cent of those surveyed said they were happy with where they live.
Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, said: “Richmond stands out for offering a combination many people value: easy access to nature and green spaces, without having to give up local services, places to eat and shop, or employment opportunities.”
“That balance between greenery and everyday convenience runs through the wider findings.”
Within London, Richmond led the rankings, followed by Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston upon Thames, Westminster and Wandsworth.
Amy Reynolds, head of sales at estate agent Antony Roberts, said: “Families are drawn to Richmond for its excellent schools and green spaces, and they stay for the strong sense of community.”
“With Richmond Park and the Thames on the doorstep, a thriving town centre and plenty of places to eat, shop and spend time, it offers a quality of life that’s hard to match in London.”
“Add in the easy journey into central London, and it’s easy to see why people are so happy to call Richmond home.”
Graham Price, director at Randall Price, said: “What makes Richmond upon Thames such a happy place to live is the balance it offers.”
“There’s a real sense of community, plenty going on locally, and people can enjoy the best of both worlds: a great place to call home while still feeling well connected.”
“It’s the kind of area people put down roots in, and once they’re here, many don’t want to leave.”
Ian Harris, president of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) Propertymark, said: “For some buyers, being close to work, good transport links and a lively social scene will be top of the list.”
“For others, it’s having a garden, good schools nearby or being able to walk to the local shops and know their neighbours.”
“These priorities also change as people move through different stages of life.”
The borough is also known for its connections to popular culture, including being a filming location for the TV series Ted Lasso.
It is not the first London borough to win praise in recent weeks: Greenwich was named one of the UK’s best places to live for 2027. The ranking also comes as house prices across the capital have been falling.
