Edinburgh’s emerging property hotspots: The areas set to watch in 2026

ESPC, the leading property portal for Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, and the Scottish Borders, has identified six key areas that have seen the biggest rise in listings this year and are expected to remain highly sought-after in Scotland’s housing market in 2026. As buyers widen their search for property for sale in Scotland that offers value, space, and lifestyle-driven locations, both established urban districts and fast-growing suburban areas are expected to remain popular in 2026.

Leith – A cultural hub with ongoing regeneration

Leith continues to be one of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhoods, fuelled by waterfront regeneration, a thriving hospitality scene, and excellent transport links in Edinburgh. The area’s mix of modern flats in Leith and characterful period properties in Edinburgh draws a wide range of buyers, making it one of the city’s most consistently active Edinburgh housing markets.

Average 2025 house price: £250,816

Musselburgh - Coastal value and strong commuter appeal

Situated just beyond Edinburgh’s eastern edge, Musselburgh offers a compelling blend of coastal property in Scotland, good commuter links to Edinburgh, and strong local amenities. Its relative affordability and broad choice of houses for sale in Musselburgh mean demand from families and commuters continues to strengthen, pushing listing volumes upward in this popular East Lothian property market.

Average 2025 house price: £241,387

Morningside - Premium living with broad buyer appeal

Morningside remains one of Edinburgh’s most desirable areas to live and one of the city’s most recognisable neighbourhoods. Known for its period homes in Morningside, independent shops, and excellent Edinburgh school catchments, the area benefits from sustained demand across all buyer groups. Listing growth in 2025 has offered more choice in a traditionally competitive premium Edinburgh property market.

Average 2025 house price: £414,208

South Queensferry - Expanding waterfront community

South Queensferry is rapidly developing as one of the city’s strongest suburban property hotspots in Edinburgh. A combination of major new housing developments in South Queensferry, strong transport links, and scenic waterfront property in Scotland has widened its appeal, particularly among families seeking more space without sacrificing access to Edinburgh.

Average 2025 house price: £295,866

Trinity - Leafy residential streets with enduring demand

Trinity has long been regarded as one of Edinburgh’s best residential areas, and 2025 saw healthy growth in both listings and buyer enquiries. Its blend of spacious family homes in Trinity, proximity to the coastline, and quiet neighbourhood feel makes it a reliable choice for those seeking established Edinburgh family properties.

Average 2025 house price: £366,935

Gilmerton - One of Edinburgh’s fastest-growing suburbs

Gilmerton continues to stand out for its significant new-build development in Edinburgh and strong year-on-year listing growth. Offering modern homes in Gilmerton at accessible price points, it has become a key destination for first-time buyers in Edinburgh and young families. Ongoing investment in local amenities is expected to support further interest in 2026.

Average 2025 house price: £236,678

Looking ahead to 2026 - Edinburgh property market forecast

With strong listing activity and an increasingly diverse buyer pool, these six areas are positioned to remain highly competitive as Edinburgh’s housing market moves into 2026. Whether through regeneration, affordability, lifestyle appeal, or new development, each neighbourhood offers distinct advantages that are shaping the next phase of the city’s Scottish property market.