A recent study identifying the most challenging places for raising children in 2026 has ranked a northern city at the top due to its crime rate, which is double the national average. The research, conducted by Outdoor Toys, evaluated factors such as green space availability, child-friendly attractions, childcare costs, and school rankings in various UK towns and cities, assigning them a ‘child raiseability’ score out of ten.
Manchester was identified as the worst city for raising children, scoring only 3.39 out of 10. Despite having ample green space and 18 child-friendly attractions, its high crime rate significantly impacted its ranking. With 145 incidents per 1,000 people, Manchester’s crime rate was double the national average and three times that of Swindon, the city with the lowest crime rate in the study.
Although 64% of schools in Manchester were rated as good or outstanding by OFSTED, the average monthly childcare cost of £1,096, while close to the national average, was still considered expensive. Outdoor Toys noted that concerns about safety could diminish the benefits of these positive aspects, affecting children’s outdoor activities and independence.
Bradford in West Yorkshire ranked second-worst in the study, with a score of 3.62 out of ten. Despite having the lowest childcare costs at £605.84 per month on average, the city faced challenges due to a high crime rate of 121 incidents per 1,000 people and a limited number of child-friendly attractions.
Bristol, although a popular choice for families relocating from London, ranked third from the bottom in the study, primarily due to its high childcare costs. With an average monthly cost of £1,749.80, Bristol posed a financial burden on families. Additionally, only 54% of schools in the city were rated as good or outstanding by OFSTED, potentially making it challenging for families to find suitable educational options.
On a positive note, Bristol offered numerous family-friendly activities and ample green spaces, making it an attractive option for families despite its drawbacks.
Conversely, Sheffield was recognized as the best city for raising children, scoring well in terms of green spaces, attractions, and school quality. Milton Keynes and Swindon followed closely, with Milton Keynes offering a wide range of family-friendly activities and Swindon standing out for its low crime rate and below-average childcare costs.