When it comes to choosing where to live in Surrey, nothing tells the story quite like what people are actually searching for. Behind every Rightmove click is a daydream about a bigger kitchen, a shorter commute, a better school catchment area or a greener place to raise a family.
Looking back at 2025 Rightmove search data, we analysed where buyers and renters were focusing their attention across Surrey. The results give a fascinating snapshot of the towns and villages that truly captured people’s imaginations over the past year. Some areas consistently drew attention thanks to their fast links into London and bustling high streets. Others stood out for very different reasons: riverside walks, independent cafés, outstanding schools or easy access to the Surrey Hills. In many cases, it was the balance that made a place shine – that sweet spot between connectivity and countryside, convenience and community.
Of course, high search volumes are not just interesting statistics – they have real implications. For sellers, strong online interest can translate into competitive viewing levels and motivated buyers. For landlords, it signals sustained tenant demand. And for those planning a move, understanding which areas were particularly sought after can help shape strategy and expectations.
Below, we explore Surrey’s most searched locations in more detail, looking at what made each one so appealing. Whether you are considering buying, selling, letting or renting, these insights offer a useful guide to where demand has been strongest – and where interest is likely to remain focused.
The most popular places to live in Surrey for buyers
1. RH1 – Redhill
Redhill tops the list for sales searches in 2025. Its continued popularity is largely driven by excellent transport links into London, particularly fast services to London Bridge and Victoria, combined with more accessible price points compared to many parts of north Surrey.
Buyers are attracted by the town’s ongoing regeneration, improving retail and leisure offer and a strong choice of schools. Redhill appeals to first-time buyers, upsizers and investors alike, making it one of the most competitive sales markets in the county.
2. GU21 – Woking
Woking remains a firm favourite with buyers looking for a balance between London connectivity and modern town living. The station offers one of the fastest rail services into Waterloo and the town centre continues to benefit from significant redevelopment and investment.
Search demand reflects strong interest from professionals and families, with buyers drawn to new apartment schemes, established residential roads and easy access to green spaces including the Surrey Hills.
Guildford High Street
3. GU1 – Guildord
Guildford’s enduring appeal is reflected in its position as the third most searched area for sales. A historic town centre, excellent shopping and dining, highly regarded schools and a strong employment base all contribute to its popularity.
Buyers often view Guildford as offering a more traditional Surrey lifestyle, with attractive period homes, riverside walks and a vibrant cultural scene, while still maintaining fast rail connections to London.
4. KT12 – Walton-on-Thames
Walton-on-Thames continues to attract strong buyer interest, particularly from families moving out of London. The area offers a combination of riverside living, good schools and a welcoming town centre.
With direct rail services into Waterloo and a wide range of housing styles, from modern apartments to substantial family homes, Walton remains a highly searched and competitive market for sales.
5. GU15 – Camberley
Camberley completes the top five for sales searches in 2025. Buyers are drawn to its relative affordability, access to major road networks including the M3 and a growing retail and leisure offering.
The area appeals to a broad range of buyers, from first-time purchasers to families, particularly those working in nearby commercial hubs across Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire.
A view of Onslow Village in Guildford, Surrey
The most popular places to live in Surrey for tenants
1. GU1 – Guildford
Guildford takes the top spot for lettings searches, reflecting strong rental demand from students, young professionals and relocating families. The presence of the University of Surrey plays a significant role, alongside the town’s thriving employment market.
Rental properties close to the town centre and station are particularly sought after, with demand often outstripping supply.
2. GU21 – Woking
Woking’s excellent transport links make it a natural choice for renters commuting into London. Modern apartment developments around the station and town centre continue to attract high levels of interest.
The strong lettings search volumes highlight Woking’s status as one of Surrey’s key rental hubs, with consistent demand across a range of property types.
Woking, Surrey
3. RH1 – Redhill
Redhill ranks third for lettings searches, mirroring its popularity in the sales market. Renters are attracted by value for money, fast rail connections and improving local amenities.
The area is particularly popular with professionals seeking more space than London rents typically allow, while maintaining an easy commute.
4. KT19 – Epsom
Epsom features prominently in lettings searches, driven by its strong commuter appeal, respected schools and proximity to green open spaces including Epsom Downs.
Rental demand is robust, particularly for family homes and well-presented apartments within walking distance of the station.
5. GU15 – Camberley
Camberley also appears in the top five for lettings searches, highlighting its broad appeal across both markets. Competitive rents, good transport links and access to employment centres continue to attract renters.
What this means for buyers, sellers, landlords and renters
High search volumes typically translate into strong competition. For sellers and landlords, this often means shorter marketing times and sustained pricing, provided properties are priced and presented correctly. For buyers and renters, popular areas require a proactive approach. Being financially prepared, flexible on requirements and acting quickly can make all the difference in competitive markets.
If you would like tailored advice on buying, selling, letting or renting in any of these Surrey locations, our local Curchods teams are on hand to help. With decades of experience across the county, we understand what drives demand and how to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
