Wales Property Market: Regional Analysis & County Comparison (2026)

The Wales region encompasses 5 counties, recording a combined 44,018 residential transactions over the past 12 months. The regional median property price stands at £225,000, with prices rising at +3.4% year-on-year.

New-build activity across the region totalled 951 completions, demonstrating an active development pipeline.

The table below compares all 5 counties in the Wales region, ranked by median property price. Click any county name for the full market report.

Property prices across Wales vary significantly. Cardiff commands the highest median price at £265,000, while Swansea offers the most affordable entry at £197,000 — a spread of £68k.

This price differential creates opportunities across the risk-return spectrum. Premium locations offer higher GDVs but require larger capital commitments, while more affordable areas can deliver stronger percentage returns on lower absolute investment.

The most active development markets in Wales, measured by new-build completions, are Cardiff (552 new builds), Swansea (211 new builds), Newport (147 new builds).

By total transaction volume — an indicator of market liquidity and exit confidence — Cardiff (20,970 sales), Swansea (13,511 sales), Newport (5,792 sales) lead the region.

Developers entering the Wales market should weigh these two metrics together: new-build activity shows where planning consent is achievable, while transaction volume confirms buyer demand.

Development finance across Wales varies by location and scheme size. In premium areas like Cardiff, typical scheme GDVs support larger facilities, while more affordable counties may suit developers using bridging finance for refurbishment-led strategies.

Senior development finance is available from 6.5% p.a. at up to 65-70% LTGDV, with mezzanine finance stretching total borrowing to 85-90% of costs. For developers building across multiple sites in the region, portfolio-level facilities can offer better terms.

Construction Capital sources terms from 100+ lenders across the Wales region. Submit your scheme through our deal room for indicative terms within 24 hours.