Manchester has become a prime investment location over the last few years with swaths of development and regeneration projects having taken place – and plenty still planned. Cementing its reputation as a big business hub, some of the world’s best known brands including Google, Amazon and Microsoft have settled in the city. What’s more, investment analysts believe this is just  the start for Manchester, with JLL predicting a property price increase of 19.3% by 2028; making it the second strongest city for house price growth!

So, what makes Manchester City Centre apartments such a solid bet for property investment?

1. High Rental Demand and Rental Yields

The vast urban regeneration of Manchester, Salford, and the surrounding areas have resulted in a thriving rental sector, with over 31% of the city’s population renting privately. This high demand for quality rents is keeping investors and estate agents across Manchester busy with a constant flow of tenants looking for new homes and a great deal of rental income being processed. With such high demand, void periods are low and in many cases downtime on properties is just days.

The average rent per room in Manchester was £454 in 2024, with the average one-bed apartment coming in at £1,200 per month. This ranks the city within the highest in the UK for rental returns, with an average yield considerably higher than most of the country. Analysts predict a further growth of 16.5% for properties in Manchester by 2030 – a growth rate almost as high as the capital.

The capital appreciation of properties continues with prices increasing some 5.6% in the last 15 years, and the average price having grown to almost six times the level of that 25 years ago.

2. Economic Growth and Job Opportunities

The development of so much of the Greater Manchester area has seen a myriad of household names move into the city, establishing a new reputation as a fintech hub. Believed to have already contributed some £1 billion to the economy from this sector alone, Manchester has also been named the ‘most AI-ready city in the UK’ by the SAS AI Cities Index.

Indeed over the last few years professionals have flocked to Manchester to take advantage of rapidly growing start-ups, established brands opening new offices and a wealth of job opportunities across all sectors and industries. Combined with an ever-growing number of graduates choosing to stay in the city after their studies end and a number of companies choosing to relocate to Manchester, the job market is booming and attracting more and more professionals all the time.

3. Ongoing Regeneration and Development Projects

While many regeneration projects tend to spike a peak in interest before tapering off, Manchester’s initiatives are continuing into the long term, sparking the opportunity for capital gains over years as further developments increase demand. An unrivalled level of sustainability and focus in the city’s regeneration and development plans are resulting in a longevity amongst the market that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

Projects through Greater Manchester running into the long term include a £2 billion replacement of the Old Trafford stadium (attracting new jobs, national and international tourists alike), the development of Trafford Wharfside into an emerging neighbourhood, a 20-acre development across the NOMA site, new developments next to Cornbrook tram station and the gentrification of Wythenshawe town centre.

Find out more about investing in VIVERE Residences, Cornbrook – Manchester

4. Accessibility and Transport Links

Manchester is fantastically connected with public transport nationally and internationally, allowing residents to travel out and commuters to travel in easily. The city’s transport networks are multi-modal and include a comprehensive rail network, inter-city tram services, an outer ring road spanning some 30 miles and an international airport.

Furthermore, the Metrolink is set for expansion and the plans for this include connections to nearby Heywood, Middleton and Stockport. This enhanced connectivity will only further attract more tenants and increase property values, as well as see demand grow for properties close to transport links.

5. Diversified Property Options and Development Trends 

The broad spectrum of developments planned for Manchester alongside the impressive growth seen already makes the city ideal for a variety of investor profiles. 

First-time buyers, buy-to-let investors and off plan property investors can all benefit from Manchester’s diverse property options and high yields. Even those looking to invest in serviced apartments (particularly amongst the high end of the market) can find ample opportunity in the city.

Conclusion

With high rental yields, regeneration driving demand up and up, vast property diversity and unprecedented economic growth, it’s no surprise that Manchester is a prime locale for property investors.

But why now? Despite the city’s rapid growth and development, there’s no sign of it slowing – and ongoing developments are only further sparking market potential. Forshaw Land & Property Group can help you find the right investment for you, no matter your experience or budget. Get in touch to learn more by filling out the form below: