Hastings

Affordable by regional standards but economically constrained, Hastings presents a difficult trade-off between low housing costs and significant social challenges. A median house costs 7.7 times annual pay, and rent consumes 33.3% of gross earnings, both figures sitting well below the South East median. However, these savings are offset by a Band D council tax of £2,677, which is higher than 96% of England authorities. The area also faces substantial pressures, with a deprivation score that is the highest in the region and a crime rate of 107.8 per 1,000 residents. With only 86.8% of pupils in Good or Outstanding schools, this location is best suited for those specifically seeking lower entry costs who are prepared to navigate a challenging local environment.

Written from the indicators on this page, 2026-10 data.

Colour shows quintile position against 361 UK Local Authorities. Green is the best position for someone moving here; red is the worst. Direction is set per indicator — higher pay, lower rent, less crime, less deprivation are all green.