New Industry Rankings Highlight Reading’s Growing Appeal

Reading’s growing reputation as one of the most desirable places to live and work within easy reach of London has recently been reinforced by a series of new accolades.

The town has been recognised for its relocation appeal, suitability for hybrid working and rising national profile, with new research pointing to a place that is increasingly attracting attention from buyers, renters, employers and investors alike.

A Place to Put Down Roots

Reading recently secured the number one spot as the most “up-and-coming” town for those relocating from London, in credit card provider Aqua’s latest report, reflecting growing demand among buyers seeking better value, more space and a stronger work-life balance.

The research analysed factors such as relocation rates, earnings growth, and commuting characteristics to identify the most attractive commuter towns for relocation. According to the data set, Reading has one of the fastest earnings growth rates, at 8.3%, with around 6% of residents having moved to Reading from elsewhere.

Located just 25 minutes from London Paddington via the Elizabeth Line, Reading offers those considering a move out of London excellent transport links, a growing local economy and superb amenities. The town also benefits from a vibrant retail, dining and cultural scene, access to riverside walks and green spaces, and a strong choice of schools and employment opportunities - making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a better balance between city connectivity and everyday quality of life.

A Town Suited to Hybrid Working

Reading has also been recognised as the UK’s second-best city for hybrid working in the latest International Workplace Group plc Hybrid Commuter Index, thanks to its fast transport links, strong employment base and range of flexible workspaces.

The index ranks locations based on how well they support hybrid working, evaluating factors such as connectivity, affordability, green space and access to flexible workspaces.

This increased interest in local workspaces reflects a broader shift in how people live and work. Hybrid working has changed what many buyers and renters want from a home. Space, connectivity and lifestyle are now just as important as proximity to the office.

With its wide choice of places to work, meet and unwind, Reading is well placed for those seeking flexibility without compromise.

A Town Earning National Recognition

Further recognition has come from The Telegraph, which recently included Reading in its feature on England’s top ten most underrated county towns, underlining the town’s rising profile as a destination with more to offer than many might expect.

A Town Backed by Strong Economic Fundamentals

Beyond the latest rankings, Reading’s wider economic credentials continue to support its growing appeal. The town is not simply benefiting from lifestyle trends; it is underpinned by one of the strongest local economies in the UK.

According to the EY Regional Economic Forecast 2025, Reading is forecast to be the UK’s fastest-growing local economy outside London over the next three years. This places Reading ahead of major regional cities including Manchester, Bristol and Cambridge, and above the UK average.

Reading businesses have been reported to pay the fourth-highest average wages in the UK, at £44,586, supported by a strong export base and a cluster of high-tech, knowledge-led companies. Furthermore, the town also benefits from a highly skilled labour pool, with around 62% of the working-age population qualified to NVQ4 level or equivalent.

Together, these figures point to a town with much more than commuter appeal. Reading combines fast connections to London with a deep employment base, a highly skilled workforce, strong business growth prospects, and a lifestyle offering that continues to attract buyers, renters, employers, and investors alike.

Riverside Living at Reading Riverworks

Berkeley’s Reading Riverworks offers a rare opportunity to enjoy contemporary riverside living within one of the South East’s most dynamic and increasingly sought-after locations.

The development features a collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed for modern living, drawing on the area’s industrial heritage for architectural inspiration.

Located on the banks of the River Thames, it will create a vibrant new gateway, with a tree-lined avenue linking the river directly to the station and the town centre, whilst opening up access to the waterside walkway and Christchurch Bridge.

Discover Reading Riverworks

With Reading continuing to earn national recognition as a place to live, work and relocate, Reading Riverworks offers a timely opportunity to be part of the town’s next chapter.

To find out more about the homes available at Reading Riverworks, register your interest or arrange a visit to the Sales & Marketing Suite.