City Centre
LS3 – 10.3% Yields
LS3, encompassing parts of the city centre and areas like Burley, is a dynamic and fast-paced environment primarily home to young professionals and students. Its main draw as one of the best places to live in Leeds is its unparalleled proximity to the business district, major retail hubs like Victoria Leeds, and a vast array of cultural attractions including theatres, arenas, and vibrant nightlife. The presence of several universities nearby fuels a constant demand for rental properties, particularly apartments and purpose-built student accommodation. For property investors, LS3 offers the highest estimated rental yield among the listed areas, driven by this strong and consistent demand from a transient population. While property prices can be higher than in outer areas, the potential for high occupancy rates and strong rental income makes it an attractive proposition for those seeking yield in a prime urban location undergoing continuous regeneration.
Burley
LS4 – 8.9% Yields
Located to the northwest of the city centre, LS4, which includes much of Burley, is a popular residential area with a mixed demographic. Historically a student hub due to its proximity to the universities, it also attracts young professionals and families looking for slightly more space and a community feel than the immediate city centre, while retaining easy access. Attractions include local parks, independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs. Its appeal lies in this blend of relative affordability compared to Headingley or the city centre, coupled with good transport links and a lively atmosphere. For property investors, Burley offers a strong rental yield, benefiting from both the student market and the increasing number of young professionals seeking rental accommodation outside the most central zones. The mix of terraced houses and some newer developments provides a range of investment opportunities.
Featured Development
The Pointe, Wakefield
West Yorkshire
Discover a premium investment opportunity in a growing market
- 1-Bed apartments and duplexes available
- Wakefield property prices set to increase by 28% by 2028 (Savills)
- 6.7% Projected gross rental yields
- Average rents in Wakefield have increased by 7% YoY (23-24)
- Just 13 minutes from Leeds via train
- 20% Deposit required
- Estimated completion Q4 2025
Prices From
£124,950
Woodhouse
LS2 – 8.2% Yields
LS2, covering Woodhouse and parts of the city centre fringe, is another area with a significant student population due to its adjacency to the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University. Beyond the student demographic, it is also home to a diverse mix of longer-term residents. Woodhouse Moor is a major green space offering recreational opportunities, and there are local amenities catering to the student and residential communities. Its primary attraction for many is its extremely close proximity to the universities and the city centre, making it highly convenient for studying and working. Property investors are drawn to LS2 for its consistently high rental demand, largely from students, contributing to a strong estimated rental yield. The area, often lauded as one of the best areas to live in Leeds, primarily consists of terraced housing, offering opportunities for HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) which can be particularly lucrative in this market.
Harehills
LS2 – 8.2% Yields
Harehills, located to the east of the city centre, is a diverse and multicultural area with a strong sense of community. It is a more affordable option compared to many other areas of Leeds, attracting families and individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. Harehills has a vibrant local market and numerous independent shops and eateries reflecting its diverse population. While it may not have major tourist attractions, its character lies in its lively streets and strong community ties. For property investors, Harehills offers a higher rental yield than some more affluent areas, primarily due to lower property entry prices.
Holbeck
LS9 – 7% Yields
LS12, encompassing Holbeck and areas to the southwest of the city centre, is an area undergoing significant transformation, particularly with the ongoing South Bank regeneration project nearby. Historically industrial, it is evolving into a more mixed-use area attracting a diverse population including young professionals and those working in the emerging creative and digital sectors in the South Bank. Attractions include the remnants of its industrial heritage and proximity to the revitalised waterfront areas. While its estimated rental yield is lower than some northern areas, the ongoing regeneration and development are key factors for property investors. The potential for future capital appreciation as the area is regenerated and attracts more residents and businesses makes LS12 an area to watch for long-term investment.
Chapel Allerton
LS7 – 4.3% Yields
Chapel Allerton, a desirable suburb to the north of the city centre (LS7), is known for its distinct village-like atmosphere, independent shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants that make it one of the best places to live in Leeds. It attracts a mix of professionals, families, and downsizers who appreciate its relaxed pace of life while still being well-connected to the city. The area boasts attractive parks and a strong community feel. While the estimated rental yield is lower than more central or student-dominated areas, property investors are interested in Chapel Allerton for its stability, popularity as a place to live, and potential for steady capital growth. Properties here tend to be in demand from reliable, longer-term tenants, making it suitable for investors seeking a more stable income stream and lower tenant turnover.
Featured Development
Boundary View
Yorkshire
Introducing the final launch at The Halcyon. 54 Premium apartments overlooking Crossflatts Cricket Club.
- 1 & 2 Bed apartments available
- Leeds property prices set to increase by 28.2% by 2028 (Savills)
- Just 24 minutes from Leeds and 18 minutes from Bradford
- Leeds properties achieving average yields of 5.96%
- Parking available
- 20% Deposit required
- Estimated completion Q4 2026
Prices From
£159,950
Hyde Park
LS6 – 7.3% Yields
LS6, covering the vibrant area of Hyde Park and parts of Headingley, is synonymous with Leeds’ large student population. Located between the main university campuses, it is the heartland for student accommodation, characterised by large Victorian terraces converted into multi-room lets. Beyond students, the area also attracts some young professionals. Hyde Park itself is a significant green space, and the area has a lively mix of independent shops, cafes, and music venues catering to its youthful demographic. Property investors are drawn to Hyde Park for its consistently high rental demand from students, resulting in a strong estimated rental yield. While the market is dominated by student lets and requires specific management considerations (like HMO regulations), the potential for high occupancy and rental income makes it a popular choice for investors targeting this market.
Bingley
BD16 – 6.5% Yields
Bingley, located in the Aire Valley in West Yorkshire, offers a different pace of life compared to the bustling Leeds city centre, though it remains well-connected. This market town primarily attracts families, older residents, and professionals who commute to nearby Leeds or Bradford, seeking a balance between accessibility and a more semi-rural environment. Bingley boasts a strong sense of community and is surrounded by attractive countryside, being on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.Key attractions include the remarkable Bingley Five Rise Locks and Three Rise Locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which are impressive feats of engineering and popular spots for walkers. The nearby St Ives Estate is a large country park offering woodlands, open spaces, and recreational activities. The town centre itself provides a range of local shops, cafes, and amenities.
Kirkstall
LS5 – 5.1% Yields
Kirkstall (LS5), situated to the northwest of the city centre along the River Aire, offers a blend of historical interest and modern amenities. Its most notable attraction is the historical Kirkstall Abbey and the surrounding parkland. The area attracts a mix of residents, including families, young professionals, and students, drawn by its more suburban feel, green spaces, and improving transport links, including the Kirkstall Forge train station. For property investors, Kirkstall presents a reasonable rental yield and a diverse tenant pool. The ongoing development in and around Kirkstall Forge is enhancing the area’s appeal and could lead to future rental and capital growth.