Glasgow vs Kilmarnock for Property Investment
Glasgow leads on gross yield at 6.5%, while Kilmarnock has the lower entry price at £115,000. Here is how the two markets compare on yield, price, deposit and tenant demand.
Glasgow vs Kilmarnock at a glance
| Metric | Glasgow | Kilmarnock |
|---|---|---|
| Average gross yield | 6.5% | 6.5% |
| Average property price | £185,000 | £115,000 |
| Implied monthly rent | £1,002 | £623 |
| 25% deposit | £46,250 | £28,750 |
| Stamp duty (additional property) | £9,250 | £5,750 |
| Population | 635,000 | 45,000 |
| Region | Scotland | Scotland |
| Investor rating | Excellent | Good |
Glasgow
Typical stock is a mix of terraces, ex-council semis and a growing number of apartment conversions closer to the centre. Tenant demand is underpinned by public-sector employers including hospitals and councils, local employment in services, healthcare and logistics, supported by a population of around 635,000. On the average £185,000 purchase, a 6.5% gross yield implies roughly £1,002 per calendar month in rent — a useful sanity check when you are reviewing a listing. Scotland's largest city with diverse economy and high yields.
- Strong fitStandard buy-to-let
- WorkableHMO / rent by the room
- Strong fitFirst-time landlord
Kilmarnock
Stock is dominated by Victorian and inter-war terraces, with two- and three-bed houses making up most of what comes to market. Tenant demand is underpinned by local employment in services, healthcare and logistics, supported by a population of around 45,000. On the average £115,000 purchase, a 6.5% gross yield implies roughly £623 per calendar month in rent — a useful sanity check when you are reviewing a listing. Ayrshire town with high yields.
- Strong fitStandard buy-to-let
- Consider carefullyHMO / rent by the room
- Strong fitFirst-time landlord
Which is the better investment?
If monthly cash flow is your priority, Glasgow is the stronger option on paper at 6.5% gross. If you want the lower capital commitment, Kilmarnock needs around £28,750 as a 25% deposit. Averages only take you so far, though — run the actual listing through PropertyROI before you offer.
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