All the Greater Manchester towns named the Best Places to Live by The Sunday Times

Each year, The Sunday Times releases its eagerly awaited list of the Best Places to Live in the UK, and Greater Manchester continues to punch well above its weight. From city-centre cool to charming market towns and green suburban gems, the region has consistently impressed the judges – and it’s easy to see why.

As The Sunday Times puts it, Manchester is in the midst of a cultural renaissance, and the “crane count” proves it. The city is no longer defined solely by its football and music scene. From its buzzing centre to leafy suburbs and hill-hugging towns, the variety and quality of life on offer here is unmatched.

So, whether you’re after urban grit and glamour, village charm, or green tranquillity, there’s a place for everyone in Greater Manchester – and The Sunday Times agrees.

Factoring in everything from schools and house prices to green space and community spirit, The Sunday Times has shone a spotlight on Greater Manchester’s rising stars and established favourites alike. Here’s a look back at the Greater Manchester towns and neighbourhoods that have earned a coveted spot on the list over the years.

2025: Mossley and The Heatons

Mossley took centre stage this year as one of the best places to live in the North West. Described as offering “access to wild countryside and the chance of a wild night out,” the OL3 postcode has become a hotbed for creative non-conformists, good schools, and scenic train commutes into the city. Read the article here

Also in 2025, The Heatons (Moor, Chapel, Norris, and Mersey) were celebrated once again, described collectively as a “super SK4 suburb.” Straddling the sweet spot between Manchester’s urban core and Stockport’s increasingly trendy scene, The Heatons were lauded for their classic yet increasingly vibrant suburban character. Read more here

2024: Stockport and Prestwich

In 2024, Stockport was crowned The Sunday Times‘ Best Place to Live in the North West, dubbed “one of the coolest little corners of the country.” With an ever-evolving town centre, cultural revival, and strong community identity, Stockport proved it’s no longer just a commuter town but a destination in its own right.

Prestwich also earned high praise for its combination of green spaces, terraced houses with gardens, and excellent connectivity, all while remaining relatively affordable and creative.

2022: Ancoats

Ancoats, once dismissed as a building site with potential, fulfilled its promise and was recognised once more in 2022. Its transformation into a buzzy, modern neighbourhood with canal-side bars, independent food spots, and loft living marked it as a standout city-centre district.

2020 & 2021: Altrincham

Altrincham topped the entire UK list two years in a row, a remarkable feat. Named Best Place to Live in the UK in both 2020 and 2021, it was praised for reinventing its high street, excellent schools, transport links, and vibrant food and drink scene. It set the benchmark for modern suburban living.

2019: Levenshulme, Ramsbottom, and Altrincham

In 2019, three Greater Manchester locations made the list.

Levenshulme was recognised as an up-and-coming suburb with a strong sense of community and a diverse, creative vibe.

Ramsbottom impressed with its top-rated schools, independent shops, foodie credentials, and beautiful countryside.

Altrincham began its reign here, acknowledged for its remarkable revival and community-centric charm.

2018: The Green Quarter

Manchester’s Green Quarter earned a spot as one of the “coolest places to live in the UK,” praised as an “urban oasis” with affordable homes and proximity to the city. It reflected a new era of city-centre living that combined convenience with calm.

Ongoing mentions and honourable highlights

Over the years, several other areas have been repeatedly lauded by The Sunday Times:

• Ancoats has transitioned from “promising” to polished – once predicted as a future gem, it has blossomed into a cool, cultural and culinary hotspot.

• Castlefield is cited as the best place for city-centre living, offering a blend of modern convenience and industrial heritage – minus the dust and disruption of ongoing developments.

• Chorlton, with its bohemian energy and musical heritage, has long been considered Manchester’s “funkiest suburb.”

• Saddleworth, a scenic cluster of Pennine villages, has made the list for its picturesque charm and rising popularity with commuters.

• Monton and Worsley are often “ones to watch,” praised for their village feel and easy access to both nature and city life.

• East Village, near Piccadilly Station, was flagged as an area with exciting potential, tied to ambitious development plans including the now-shelved HS2 terminal.