National Beach Day: Why coastal living in Scotland continues to appeal

25th Aug 2026

Community

In honour of National Beach Day, we thought we would take a moment to celebrate the beautiful coastline on our doorstep here in Scotland, and to look at some of the reasons living by the sea continues to appeal to homeowners and investors alike.

From wellbeing benefits to strong property values and investment potential, coastal living offers more than just a great view. Here's why buyers keep being drawn to life by the coast.

Wellbeing

Research has linked living closer to the coast with better self-reported general and mental health. At the same time, access to “blue spaces” can provide opportunities to relax, exercise and spend more time outdoors.

In Scotland, that means miles of dramatic, unspoilt coastline to explore from the fishing villages of Fife's East Neuk and the beaches of St Andrews, to the seaside towns of East Lothian like North Berwick and Dunbar, and even city-coast living in Edinburgh's Portobello and Cramond. Whether it's a bracing coastal walk or watching the sunset over a loch, Scotland's shoreline offers a slower pace and a real connection to the outdoors.

Property Values

Coastal locations can command a significant premium. Rightmove research found that homes with a sea view had an average asking-price premium of 32% compared with properties in the same coastal areas without one.

Scotland remains the most affordable part of Great Britain for sea view homes, with an average asking price of £166,068 – a fraction of what you would be paying if you were looking to buy south by the sea in England with the average house price being £416,375 a fraction of the £416,375 average in the South. That makes Scotland an appealing entry point for buyers who want the coastal lifestyle without the price tag seen further south.

Investment Potential

Some seaside markets can offer investors a combination of rental demand and long-term growth potential. Recent data also shows certain coastal locations outperforming the wider market for asking-price growth, although returns vary considerably by location and property.For investors, Scotland's relative affordability is its biggest draw, it offers a lower cost of entry into the coastal market, with plenty of scope across the Highlands, islands and east coast towns for those looking to combine lifestyle appeal with long-term potential.

Want to find out more?

Whether it's the lifestyle, the view or the investment potential, there are plenty of reasons why buyers continue to be drawn to life by the coast — and Scotland is no exception.

Thinking about making a move or your next investment in Scotland? Speak to your local property experts today.

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