Manchester is a growing city and with more professionals choosing to live in places such as Didsbury and Prestwich, finding the cheapest places to live is becoming more problematic. However, as parts of the city grow and expand which attracts buyers, there are still some less expensive places to live that offer opportunities for those who want to save money.
What follows are the five cheapest places to live in Manchester in terms of purchasing homes. Such prices change considerably if your desire is to rent a living space instead of making a purchase. The northwest regions of Manchester are the locations in which many people can find an affordable place to live.
Bolton
Although many consider Bolton a commuter town, it is much more than that thanks to the many shops and features which make this community unique. There are plenty of things to do for individuals, couples, and families who live in Bolton ranging from beautiful parks to dining and shopping opportunities. The average price for a detached property is around £170,000. For those looking at getting a starter home while still having easy commuting opportunities, Bolton offers excellent choices.
Hindley
Located near Wigan, Hindley offers good public transportation into the city along with shopping opportunities. The average home price in Hindley is £140,000 to cash buyers which makes the suburb an affordable option for those who want to live and work in the greater Manchester area. Lots of shops, pubs, and a friendly atmosphere make Hindley an attractive place to live for many. However, it may not be for everyone depending on where their job is located.
Rochdale
What sets this community apart, other than the relatively low average home prices of £140,000, is the picturesque countryside and some of the most highly rated restaurants in the region. However, Rochdale is arguably best known for its accessibility and ease of traveling into Manchester. It also helps that Rochdale has some excellent places to shop and offers a small-town like atmosphere. This makes it the perfect community for young families looking for a nice place that is not that expensive to live.
Westhoughton
The community of Westhoughton is undergoing a rebirth as it is fast becoming an ideal location for commuters. Its proximity to the centre of Manchester combined with its emphasis on restaurants and shopping opportunities have made this once-industrial town a popular place for younger people. It helps that the average home price is £180,000 which is not too bad considering all the benefits that this location has to offer.
Wigan
Located not far from Hindley, Wigan offers the same desirable features which include low home prices, easy access to the rest of Manchester, and plenty of shops and pubs for entertainment. The average price for a detached property is over £200,000, but you can find cheaper two-bed terraced homes for under £100,000.
Keep in mind that all five communities mentioned have smaller, terraced homes which are not detached properties, but do provide a cheaper alternative for home buyers.