Top 5 Up-and-Coming Areas to Buy in Cambridge in 2025

Posted on Friday, May 30, 2025

With Cambridge continuing to attract professionals, families, and investors alike, the city’s property market remains highly sought after. But with competition and prices rising in central areas, many buyers are looking towards up-and-coming locations that offer better value, strong community vibes, and long-term growth potential.

As local property experts, we’ve rounded up the top 5 up-and-coming areas to buy in Cambridge in 2025—places where buyers can still get ahead of the curve.

 

1. Cherry Hinton

South-East Cambridge
Cherry Hinton has seen significant development over the past few years, including new housing schemes and improved transport links.

Why it's rising:

  • Proximity to ARM headquarters and Addenbrooke’s Hospital

  • Planned infrastructure improvements (e.g., Cambridge South East Transport scheme)

  • Good schools and green spaces like Cherry Hinton Hall Park

Who it suits: Young families, NHS staff, tech professionals

 

2. Eddington (North West Cambridge)

Near Madingley Road / Huntingdon Road
A major development by the University of Cambridge, Eddington is becoming a vibrant new district, offering modern homes, sustainability credentials, and excellent amenities.

Why it's rising:

  • New homes with eco features and strong rental yields

  • New primary school, supermarket, community centre and GP surgery

  • Quick access to the M11, West Cambridge site, and city centre

Who it suits: Investors, university staff, environmentally-conscious buyers

 

3. Abbey & Barnwell

East of Cambridge City Centre
Often overlooked in the past, the Abbey area is beginning to attract attention due to its affordability and proximity to the city centre and Cambridge North station.

Why it's rising:

  • Cambridge North station boosting commuter interest

  • Planned regeneration around Newmarket Road and Abbey Stadium

  • Cheaper than other central areas but just a short bike ride to town

Who it suits: First-time buyers, young professionals, budget-conscious movers

 

4. Trumpington

South Cambridge / off M11 Junction 11
Once a small village, Trumpington has evolved into a modern suburb with new-build estates, shops, and schools—yet still retains its village charm.

Why it's rising:

  • Excellent Park & Ride and guided busway connections

  • New developments (Aura, Trumpington Meadows, etc.)

  • Walking distance to the Biomedical Campus and Waitrose

Who it suits: Commuters, families, professionals working at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus

 

5. Waterbeach (Greater Cambridge Area)

Just North of Cambridge
Although technically a village outside the city, Waterbeach deserves attention due to the Waterbeach New Town development—one of the most ambitious housing projects in the region.

Why it's rising:

  • 11,000 new homes planned over the next two decades

  • New schools, shops, parks and transport infrastructure

  • Quick access to Cambridge via train or A10

Who it suits: Buyers looking for long-term value, families, and investors