Paisley has long stood in the shadow of its big-city neighbour, Glasgow. But for savvy investors and landlords, that might just be its greatest asset. With property prices significantly lower than in the city centre and a strong pool of tenants to draw from, Paisley is fast becoming one of Scotland’s most interesting buy-to-let locations.
So where should you be looking if you want to invest in Paisley’s rental market? Let’s explore the data, the demand, and the districts that could deliver great returns.
Why invest in Paisley?
Paisley offers a compelling mix of affordability and tenant demand. Average property prices are consistently lower than those in Glasgow, yet rents remain competitive. That means the potential for higher yields is very real.
According to the latest figures from Rightmove, average property prices in Paisley currently sit at around £130,000. Flats come in even lower, averaging £79,000, while terraced houses hover around the £110,000 mark. Meanwhile, rental prices remain strong: a two-bedroom flat typically rents for between £600 and £800 per month and the potential to earn up to a 10% yield.
Paisley is also home to the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), drawing in thousands of students each year. Add in its close links to Glasgow via road, rail, and air, and you have a broad and consistent tenant base, from students and young professionals to airport workers and families.
Paisley rental market snapshot
To make informed investment decisions, understanding current market dynamics is key. Here’s a quick look at Paisley’s buy-to-let landscape:
- Average property price: £130,000 (Rightmove HPI)
- Average rent: £700 – £750.00 pcm for a two-bed flat
- Gross yields: Martin & Co Paisley are currently achieving between 8% and 10%, depending on location and property type.
- Tenant demand: Consistently high due to students, commuters, and families
With this in mind, let’s break down the best areas in Paisley for buy-to-let investors.
Paisley town centre
For landlords looking for high footfall and consistent demand, the town centre is a great starting point. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional sandstone tenements and modern flats, many of which are popular with students, key workers, and young professionals.
Properties are well-priced, with many one- and two-bedroom flats available under £100,000. Rental yields in the centre are some of the strongest in Paisley, often topping 7% for well-located flats.
The proximity to the UWS campus, shops, cafes, and the Gilmour Street train station makes this area incredibly appealing for tenants without cars. There’s also regeneration in the works, including the refurbishment of historic buildings and improved public spaces — making it a smart long-term play for capital growth.
Renfrew Road and Gallowhill
Stretching northeast from the town centre, Renfrew Road and the adjoining Gallowhill neighbourhood have become increasingly popular with both tenants and investors.
Homes here tend to be a mix of ex-local authority properties and private semi-detached houses. While prices are slightly higher than in the town centre, there’s still excellent value to be had, especially if you’re open to light refurbishment projects.
The area benefits from great transport links, with quick access to the M8 motorway and bus routes into Glasgow. It’s particularly popular with families and working professionals, thanks to local schools, supermarkets, and amenities.
Yields here are solid, often ranging between 7% and 8%, with minimal void periods. For landlords seeking long-term tenants, it’s a strong option.
South Paisley (including Glenburn and Dykebar)
Heading south, Glenburn and Dykebar offer a quieter, more residential feel. These are leafy suburbs popular with families looking for more space and a garden. Semi-detached and detached homes dominate the landscape, many of which were built in the post-war years and offer excellent room sizes.
While property prices are higher here — often above £150,000 — the quality of tenants and longer tenancies can offset the lower yields. This area tends to attract families and older renters who are seeking stability, so landlords benefit from reduced maintenance costs and reliable income.
South Paisley is ideal for landlords focused on long-term returns and capital appreciation.
Foxbar and Ferguslie Park
For experienced landlords with an appetite for higher yields and a willingness to manage their portfolio actively, Foxbar and Ferguslie Park are worth considering.
These areas offer some of the most affordable housing in Paisley. Entry prices can dip below £75,000 for a flat, with rental income of £500-£600 per month achievable. That makes for some of the highest gross yields in the town, sometimes upwards of 8%.
That said, tenant vetting is crucial, and hands-on property management is often required. If done right, though, these areas can deliver excellent return on investment and portfolio diversification.
Don’t overlook the student market
With a growing student population attending the University of the West of Scotland, there are opportunities to cater to this sector, particularly around the town centre and west Paisley.
HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) properties can deliver high yields, but they do come with tighter regulations and licensing requirements. If you’re considering a student let, make sure you understand the compliance obligations, including fire safety, space standards, and council permissions.
Still, with thousands of students looking for affordable housing each year, this niche can offer steady income when managed well.
Infrastructure and regeneration on the rise
Paisley is undergoing a significant transformation. Several regeneration projects are underway, including:
- Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA): A multimillion-pound development to create a business and innovation hub near the airport, bringing jobs and housing demand.
- Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS): A major new economic zone with world-class infrastructure and training centres.
- Town centre upgrades: Investment in public spaces, historic buildings, and retail streets to enhance the liveability and attractiveness of the centre.
These developments will likely boost house prices and rental demand in the medium to long term. Buying in before the uplift is fully realised can give investors a head start.
Who rents in Paisley?
Understanding your target market is crucial. In Paisley, tenants include:
- Students — attending UWS, often looking for central, affordable, shared accommodation
- Young professionals — commuting to Glasgow or working at the airport or local businesses
- NHS staff and care workers — seeking reliable, quality rentals near hospitals and transport
- Families — drawn to the suburbs, good schools, and quieter streets
By tailoring your property and rental strategy to these groups, you can reduce void periods and attract long-term tenants.
Tips for landlords buying in Paisley
If you’re considering a Paisley investment, here are some final pointers:
- Partner with a knowledgeable agent. Martin & Co Paisley are local experts who can guide you on high-demand streets, tenant preferences, and achievable rents.
- Get a rental valuation. Knowing the likely income before you buy is essential. Book a free rental review at https://www.martinco.com/valuation/.
- Consider your goals. Are you focused on cash flow or long-term growth? That will shape your location and property type.
- Don’t neglect compliance. From EPC ratings to landlord registration and safety checks, staying compliant protects your investment and your tenants.
Ready to invest in Paisley?
Paisley has all the makings of a profitable and sustainable investment location. From affordable town centre flats to family homes in the suburbs, there are opportunities at every price point. And with infrastructure improvements and rising demand, the outlook is bright.
Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or just starting out, Martin & Co Paisley are here to help.
Talk to our friendly team today about:
- Finding high-yielding properties
- Understanding tenant demand
- Managing your property effectively
Start your journey with a no-obligation rental review or chat with our team at Martin & Co Paisley.
