Reading is the UK’s most attractive city to move to, according to a new study from MRI Software. The city has topped an index of ‘move-in magnets’ created by the software company, which tracks and forecasts footfall and performance metrics across the UK.

By analysing data on new-build development trends, job availability, cost of living and footfall, the index identifies the UK cities offering the strongest balance between opportunity, affordability, and quality of life – which it says are the factors that define a ‘move-in magnet’.

Over the past five years, Reading has seen a boom in housing construction, with a 1883% rise in new build completions. The city also has a healthy job market, with approximately one job for every nine to ten residents – the highest ratio among the cities analysed.

York is in second place on the index, which MRI Software said stands out for its exceptional safety score of 73.3, the highest among the top five. York’s job market is the fifth highest amongst the top 10, offering around one job for every 25 people. The cost of living in the city is positioned between the more affordable Midlands cities such as Derby, Reading and Oxford.

Leicester takes third place, with a 4% rise in new builds and a cost-of-living score of just 61.2, one of the lowest in the ranking. While footfall rose slightly by 0.22%, Leicester’s affordability is a major draw for young professionals and families seeking value outside larger metropolitan areas. With over 12,000 jobs currently available, the city’s growing employment market supports its continued rise as a regional hub.

Coming in fourth, Nottingham continues to perform strongly thanks in part to a steady flow of new housing developments (up 3.2% in five years). The city’s mix of affordability (cost of living 62.9) and connectivity makes it a practical and popular choice for renters and buyers seeking to relocate within the Midlands.

Norwich rounds out the top five, leading on both new-build activity and safety. Its 4.3% rise in housing development and strong safety score (73.9) position Norwich as a thriving yet secure destination for those seeking a high quality of life outside London’s commuter belt, the authors on the index said.

Commenting on the index, MRI Software’s Jenni Matthews said:

“These results show that people aren’t simply chasing affordability or job opportunity in isolation. The most attractive cities are those offering a well-rounded lifestyle, places where economic opportunity, safety, and day-to-day experience come together. Reading, York, and Norwich are great examples of how modern cities can thrive when they balance growth with liveability.”

 

City
Five year % difference in new build completions

Reading
1,883.33%

Brighton & Hove
557.14%

Norwich
433.33%

Leicester
400.00%

Nottingham
316.67%

Derby
243.75%

York
200.00%

Swindon
190.48%

Oxford
161.54%

Liverpool
127.66%

Source: MRI Software