The town has taken ninth position in property company Rightmove’s Happy at Home Index for 2025.
Its ranking also makes it the happiest place in the South West.
The top 10 locations in the index were:
- Skipton
- Richmond upon Thames
- Camden
- Harrogate
- Woodbridge
- Altrincham
- Macclesfield
- Stirling
- Cirencester
- Hexham
Cirencester was also the only place in southern England to appear in the index’s top 10 along with Richmond upon Thames and Camden.
It noted the average asking price in the area is £472,990, while the average asking rent per calendar month is £1,975.
Rightmove’s annual Happy at Home Index, now in its 14th year, explores what makes people feel content about where they live and reveals the happiest places in Great Britain for this year.
Thousands of householders across more than 200 spots discussed what they loved or didn’t about their community, including the friendliness of neighbours, green space access and job opportunities.
A spokesperson for Rightmove said: “In this year’s survey, as in previous years, we saw many of the ingredients to happiness at home are simple things that make daily life easier, safer and more enjoyable.
“Feeling part of a community is among the strongest drivers of happiness.
“Being surrounded by welcoming neighbours and within close proximity to friends and family can drive a real sense of belonging and connection.
“Safety also plays an important role, as does access to essential services such as schools, hospitals and employment opportunities.
“This year’s survey shows how the physical environment of a town or a city can have a major bearing on happiness.
“Green spaces were shown to be one of the most valued features in the index, offering places to relax, exercise and connect with nature.
“Those who lived in a rural location were more likely to say they felt happy where they lived than urban and suburban dwellers.
“Riverside, woodland or coastal locations were more likely to have happy householders, while the study also revealed those who live close to a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are happier on average than those who don’t.
“At the same time, walkability and vibrant high streets also matter to people.
“Being able to stroll to local shops or make use of a bustling town centre adds convenience to everyday life.
“Interestingly, this year’s survey shows our happiness with where we live often grows with age.
“Householders aged 18 to 24 were the least likely to say they felt happy where they live.
“Happiness then increases through the age brackets, with those aged 65 and over being the most likely to feel happy with where they live.
“This year’s results show householders in the South West are the happiest with where they live.
“Scandinavian countries such as Finland and Denmark consistently top international happiness charts due to their high-quality public services, social trust and the accessibility and inclusivity of cultural life.
“But these traits aren’t unique to Scandinavia.
“Towns with green spaces, walkable streets and active high streets can provide the same amenities and sense of connection.
“Access to cultural activities – whether that’s local festivals, theatres or community events – can also make a big difference.”