One in ten prospective homebuyers in the UK is seeking to purchase property specifically to own a pet, according to new research from Skipton Building Society.
The lender’s data reveals that an additional 11% of buyers are actively searching for pet-friendly properties, suggesting animals are playing an increasingly significant role in property purchasing decisions.
Skipton Building Society has launched a pet-friendly property index ranking UK locations based on facilities for pet owners, including dog-friendly pubs and cafes, availability of veterinary services per 100,000 residents, and access to green spaces. The index also incorporates affordability data for buyers.
Regional rankings
Nottingham ranked first in the index, recording 6.63 green spaces within a 1,000-metre radius and 33.4 dog-friendly venues per 100,000 residents. However, the Skipton Group Home Affordability Index shows only 8% of first-time buyers in Nottingham can afford to purchase property without financial assistance.
York placed second, with the highest concentration of veterinary practices at 17.2 per 100,000 residents. First-time buyer affordability in York stands at 7% without external support.
Brighton and Hove recorded the highest number of dog-friendly venues at 47.3 per 100,000 residents, placing third overall. The city demonstrated comparatively stronger affordability, with 16% of first-time buyers able to enter the market independently.
London featured in the top ten despite having 546 dog-friendly venues, but registered the lowest affordability rate with only 4% of first-time buyers able to purchase without help. Glasgow also appeared in the top ten rankings.
Market implications
Jen Lloyd, Head of Mortgage Products and Proposition at Skipton Building Society, said the Renters’ Rights Act is providing more flexibility for pet ownership in rental properties. She noted that buyers are now considering factors beyond traditional metrics such as transport links and property size.
“Affordability remains important but many are factoring in pet-friendly surroundings and access to outdoor space too,” Lloyd stated.
The findings come as UK home searches have risen despite declining purchasing power, suggesting buyers are weighing multiple factors in their property decisions. The research indicates a shift in buyer priorities, with lifestyle amenities for pets joining conventional considerations in property selection.
The data highlights a growing market segment focused on pet-friendly features, though affordability constraints continue to limit first-time buyer access across most ranked locations. The gap between demand for pet-friendly properties and actual purchasing capacity remains significant in higher-ranked cities.
