St Andrews, on the east coast of Fife, is a historic town renowned as the ‘home of golf’ and features the world-famous Old Course. It is also home to Scotland’s oldest University and the third oldest in the UK. The East Neuk of Fife lies on the eastern corner coastal region of Fife, just south of St Andrews. Known for beautiful beaches and vibrant communities, these small coastal villages and towns offer stunning views across the Firth of Forth and are ideal places for those seeking a coastal lifestyle.

Our team at Rettie is deeply rooted in St Andrews and the East Neuk, with first-hand experience of living and working in such a vibrant and thriving part of Scotland. That perspective provides valuable insight into the area’s continued popularity, where lifestyle, community and market strength come together to create one of the country’s most compelling residential markets.

George Lorimer
Director

Key Findings

The main St Andrews & East Neuk settlements rank in the top 15 settlements in Fife based on average house price.

Over the last 12 months, Elie & Earlsferry has the highest average house price in Fife, at just under £550,000. St Andrews is ranked second, with an average price a little over £480,000. Crail and Pittenweem are also in the top 10 in Fife, with St Monans and Anstruther inside the top 15. Across the whole of St Andrews & East Neuk, the average house price is over £400,000, nearly double the national average.

Most St Andrews & East Neuk settlements have had increases in average house prices above the national average since 2020.

Since 2020, the average house price in Scotland has increased by 21%. Across much of East Neuk, this rise has been higher, with some areas having very significant rises (St Monans up by 53% and Crail by 39%). However, higher value areas have seen more limited growth, with St Andrews up 10% and average prices stable in Elie & Earlsferry over this time.

Detached properties command a clear premium in the area and well above the national average.

Detached properties carry a particular premium in St Andrews & East Neuk. All the main settlements have an average detached house price well above that of Scotland’s, which in the last 12 months averaged around £350,000. Elie & Earlsferry have the highest average detached house price in the local area, at £617,500 in the last 12 months. St Andrews ranked second at just under c.£580,000, followed by Pittenweem at just under £440,000.

The number of property listings in St Andrews & East Neuk spiked in late 2024 before settling back, but has continued to grow for prime listings.

The count of properties listed for sale in the area has steadily increased since 2022, hitting a peak of just under1,600 listings towards the end of 2024 and the start of 2025.This could partly be due to the 200% Council Tax premium on second homes implemented by the Fife Council at the beginning of 2024. However, over 2025-26 to date, listings have retreated to more normal levels.

St Andrews West Apartments

The reception for St Andrews West since launch has been fantastic to see, with sustained demand from both national and international buyers. The development combines contemporary architecture and strong sustainability credentials with a coastal town lifestyle that few locations can match. For golf enthusiasts, residents are eligible to apply for a St Andrews Links Ticket, offering direct access to the town's historic courses. It really is a considered, forward-thinking extension of the town itself, and with a selection of apartments and houses now available, it's a great time to secure a home in this new community.

Claire Birrell
Associate Director

Summary

The St Andrews and East Neuk property market continues to stand out as one of Scotland’s strongest, with average house prices nearly double the national average, sustained long-term growth across many local settlements, and continued demand in the prime market. For homeowners, buyers and investors alike, the region’s combination of lifestyle appeal, market resilience and high-value properties makes it an exceptionally attractive place to live and invest. To discuss your next move, get in touch with the Rettie St Andrews team for expert local advice.

Contact Rettie St Andrews
Lead Researcher
Dr John Boyle MRICS
Director of Research & Strategy
Consultancy & Research
Published: 6 Jul 2026
Research
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