But while central Salford and MediaCityUK have grabbed the headlines, investors are turning their attention to neighbouring areas like Eccles—a town that offers all the right fundamentals, but at a far more accessible price point.

The Salford Effect

Salford is no longer just riding on Manchester’s coattails. It’s become a powerhouse, driven by:

- MediaCityUK, home to the BBC, ITV, and a fast-growing tech and creative sector

- A major £2.5 billion regeneration programme, including the transformation of the Crescent, Chapel Street, and Greengate areas

- Investment in infrastructure, education (University of Salford), and housing

- A young, professional population drawn to vibrant urban living with lower costs than Manchester city centre

According to ONS data, Salford’s population grew by over 15% between 2011 and 2021, one of the fastest growth rates in the region. This demand is directly fuelling property price rises and rental growth.

So What About Eccles?

Eccles, located just a few miles west of Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, is perfectly positioned to benefit from this momentum. While average house prices in Manchester now exceed £295,000, Eccles properties remain more affordable. According to Rightmove, the average house price in Eccles (M30 postcode) was £258,478 in 2024, up 8.6% year-on-year.

Yet affordability doesn’t mean compromise. Eccles offers:

- Strong transport links (Metrolink, train services, and easy motorway access)

- Proximity to Salford Quays and Central Manchester

- A growing number of local cafes, retail spaces, and green areas

- A strong rental market, driven by young professionals and families seeking good value near the city

Rental yields in the area are averaging 5–6%, with some smaller properties achieving even higher returns depending on location and tenant type.

Why Investors Should Pay Attention

What makes Eccles stand out is that it’s still early in its investment curve. As regeneration spreads out from central Salford, property values and rents are expected to climb further. Investors entering now can still capitalise on relatively low entry prices with strong potential for both yield and capital growth.

In short: Eccles offers the best of both worlds—the benefits of Salford’s rapid development, without the inflated costs of more saturated markets.

If you’re an investor looking to tap into the North West’s ongoing property boom, don’t overlook Eccles. With rising demand, improving infrastructure, and its strategic location between Salford and Manchester, it’s fast becoming one of the region’s most promising investment hotspots.