Choosing where to live – or where to invest – is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. And for many, Inverness is climbing rapidly to the top of the list. Known as the capital of the Highlands, it combines stunning scenery, a strong economy, and a growing property market.
But is it the right place for you? Whether you’re thinking about moving your family or building your property portfolio, this guide will help you decide if Inverness fits your plans in 2025.
Why Inverness is on the map
Inverness isn’t just picturesque – though it certainly ticks that box with the River Ness, historic architecture, and the nearby Moray Firth. It’s also practical.
- Connectivity: Inverness Airport offers flights to London, Manchester, and Amsterdam, while regular trains link the city to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
- Employment: Sectors like renewable energy, tourism, healthcare, and IT are thriving. NHS Highland is a major employer, alongside growing private businesses.
- Education: The University of the Highlands and Islands brings students into the city and contributes to rental demand.
- Lifestyle: From weekend hikes to a lively arts scene, Inverness offers more than most towns of its size.
These factors make it appealing to home movers looking for balance – and investors looking for sustainable demand.
What’s happening in the Inverness property market?
The Scottish housing market has remained resilient, and Inverness has been no exception. According to the Registers of Scotland, the average house price in the Highlands in early 2025 is around £220,000, slightly below the Scottish average of £227,000. Inverness city itself typically commands higher prices than rural Highland areas, but remains more affordable than Edinburgh or Aberdeen.
Rental demand is equally strong. Zoopla reports that average rents in the Highlands and Islands are up by 6% year-on-year, reflecting the national trend of high demand and limited supply.
Gross rental yields in Inverness currently sit between 4.5% and 5.2%, depending on property type and location. While that’s not the very highest in the UK, investors often balance yield with Inverness’s strong capital growth prospects, fuelled by its expanding economy and housing demand.
Is Inverness right for home movers?
For those considering relocating to Inverness, here’s what stands out:
- Family life: Areas like Crown, Balloch, and Holm Mains are popular with families thanks to good schools and green space. Detached and semi-detached homes here are in steady demand.
- Commuter convenience: Professionals working in the city or at Raigmore Hospital often look to live within walking or short driving distance.
- Lifestyle seekers: Those moving from larger cities often appreciate the slower pace of life, alongside easy access to the Highlands for outdoor activities.
The main consideration for movers is balancing affordability with availability. Family-sized homes near the city centre can attract competition, but widening your search to areas like Culloden or Smithton often provides more space for the money.
Is Inverness right for investors?
Inverness is particularly appealing for buy-to-let investors for three reasons:
- Tenant demand: Students, young professionals, NHS staff, and families all drive consistent rental demand.
- Capital growth: Property values in Inverness have steadily increased over the last decade and show signs of continued growth as the city expands.
- Diverse stock: From city-centre flats to modern new-builds and suburban family homes, investors can choose the strategy that fits their budget and goals.
Areas worth considering include:
- Crown: Close to the city centre, Crown is highly desirable for professionals and commands premium rents.
- Culloden: Popular with families, offering newer builds at more affordable prices.
- Inverness city centre: Flats here are in demand from young professionals and students.
- Merkinch and Dalneigh: More affordable options, often offering stronger yields.
The lifestyle factor
Numbers are important, but lifestyle often seals the deal. Inverness offers something unique:
- Outdoor living: Loch Ness, Cairngorms National Park, and the Black Isle are all within easy reach. For those who love walking, cycling, or skiing, it’s a paradise.
- Culture and community: The Eden Court Theatre, regular festivals, and a lively music scene add vibrancy.
- Food and drink: From traditional pubs to high-quality restaurants, the city has a growing food scene.
- Health and wellbeing: Clean air, access to green spaces, and a close-knit community contribute to quality of life.
It’s this mix of practical opportunity and lifestyle appeal that makes Inverness such a compelling choice for both movers and investors.
Key considerations before making the move
If you’re weighing up Inverness in 2025, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Supply and demand: Property stock is limited, and competition can be fierce for the best homes.
- Transport links: While well-connected, travel times to Scotland’s central belt are longer than some buyers expect.
- Weather: The climate is cooler and wetter than southern England — though many movers see this as a small trade-off for the scenery.
- Investment balance: Yields are steady but not sky-high, so investors should think long-term.
How Belvoir Inverness can help
Whether you’re buying a family home or looking for your next investment, local insight makes all the difference. At Belvoir Inverness, we combine national strength with local knowledge to give you a clear picture of the market.
We can help you:
- Understand which areas best fit your goals
- Set realistic expectations for buying or letting
- Connect with trusted landlords, buyers, and tenants
- Manage your property with full compliance and care
Book your free property valuation with Belvoir Inverness
Final word
So, is Inverness right for you? If you’re after a city that combines affordability, opportunity, and quality of life, the answer is likely yes. For movers, it offers family-friendly communities, a slower pace, and easy access to the Highlands. For investors, it delivers steady yields, capital growth, and a resilient rental market.
At Belvoir Inverness, we believe property is personal. And whether you’re moving home or expanding your portfolio, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re a hands-on investor or want a fully managed experience, our team at Belvoir Inverness is here to help. Start with a free rental appraisal or a chat about your goals.
