ONS figures show 8.6 million people lived alone in 2025, accounting for 29.5% of UK households. Almost half were aged 65 or over.
For homeowners thinking of selling, this is a reminder that your next buyer might be purchasing alone. A manageable garden, lower running costs, good security and proximity to shops could be just as persuasive as an extra bedroom. Your marketing should explain how your home suits someone’s life, alongside showing its rooms.
For landlords, the figures highlight why it pays to understand local demand from single occupants. Affordable running costs, practical layouts and convenient locations can matter particularly when one person pays all the bills. However, living alone does not automatically mean wanting a one-bedroom flat. Some people need space for visiting family, hobbies or working from home.
The lesson? Before selling or letting your Baldock or Letchworth home, consider who your property could suit and what matters to them. Understanding the person behind the enquiry can help you present your home more effectively.