In honour of National Beach Day, we thought we would take a moment to celebrate the beautiful coastline on our doorstep here in the South, 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.
Along the Sussex and Hampshire coast, that means everything from the beaches and promenade at Worthing and Littlehampton, to watersports on the Solent and Southampton Water, and easy access to the South Downs National Park for those who want their coastal walk to end in rolling countryside.
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.
The Southeast is Britain's most expensive region for sea view homes, with an average asking price of £416,375. Worthing stands out as one of the country's biggest sea view hotspots, with sea view homes commanding a £99,262 premium on average.
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.
With strong and consistent demand across Sussex and Hampshire's coastal towns, and excellent commuter links into London and along the south coast, the region continues to be a popular choice for both homeowners and investors seeking long-term value.
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 Sussex and Hampshire are no exception.
Thinking about making a move or your next investment across Sussex or Hampshire? Speak to your local property experts today.
Sources
Rightmove Press Centre — “Price of a sea-view home up 27% since 2019”: rightmove.co.uk/press-centre/price-of-a-sea-view-home-up-27-since-2019
Data cited: national and regional sea-view asking-price analysis (2019 vs. 2026), Rightmove, published 30 July 2026.