The city has recorded a 1,883% increase in new build completions since 2020 according to ONS data.

This puts it significantly ahead of others with the second highest ranking city, Brighton & Hove, recording a 557.14% increase.

Norwich placed third with a 433.44% increase over the same period.

MRI Software — which specialises in footfall analysis — has declared Reading as the most attractive UK city to move to when combining new build completions with other metrics.

These include the number of jobs available (weighted by population), difference in footfall between 2023 and 2024, cost of living score and a safety rating.

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Based on all of these metrics, York was the second most attractive city to move to though its 200% increase in new build completions was the seventh highest.

Leicester ranked third based on overall attractiveness to live in. In terms of new build completions, it placed fourth with a 400% increase.

“These results show that people aren’t simply chasing affordability or job opportunity in isolation,” said Jenni Matthews, senior brand, PR and content specialist at MRI Software.

“The most attractive cities are those offering a well-rounded lifestyle, places where economic opportunity, safety, and day-to-day experience come together.”