My London
·24 Aug 2026
Underrated commuter town 28 minutes from London where house prices are falling fast
Rightmove research shows Haywards Heath in West Sussex had the sharpest annual decline in asking prices among commuter locations around six major UK cities, falling 4.8% to £461,066 in the year to July 2026. The town is 28 minutes from East Croydon and under 45 minutes from central London, making its lower prices potentially attractive to buyers previously priced out of commuter hotspots. Other major declines included Maidenhead, Bath and Leamington Spa, while more affordable commuter areas around Glasgow and Manchester saw prices rise. Estate agents said buyers are increasingly seeking locations that combine manageable city access with amenities, community and green space.