Two neighbourhoods in the West Midlands have been celebrated as among the finest places to live in England, according to a prestigious national ranking for 2026.
Telegraph's Top 10 List Revealed
The Telegraph newspaper has published its list of the least deprived areas in the country, placing two West Midlands communities within the coveted top ten. The ranking, released on 17th December 2025, analyses 6,856 areas across England using the official Deprivation Index. This index scrutinises critical factors including income, employment, health, crime rates, education quality, access to local services, and the general living environment.
While the top spot was secured by Fleet South and Pondtail in Hampshire, the West Midlands made a strong showing. The neighbourhood of Stoney Hill in Bromsgrove claimed ninth place, with Monkspath North in Solihull taking the tenth position on the list.
Stoney Hill, Bromsgrove: A Family-Friendly Haven
Stoney Hill in Bromsgrove is highlighted as a highly desirable and family-oriented area. Its appeal is bolstered by excellent access to good schools, a pleasant town centre, and superb transport connections to Birmingham. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds, with the bustling city centre just a 30-minute journey away and the beautiful rolling countryside of north Worcestershire right on the doorstep.
Bromsgrove itself is a traditional market town, surrounded by attractive landscapes and a wide array of local attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.
Monkspath North, Solihull: Affluence and Green Space
Monkspath North in Solihull is renowned as one of the most affluent areas in the West Midlands. The neighbourhood boasts a strong community spirit, highly-regarded schools, and abundant green spaces such as Hilfield Park. Since the early 2000s, the area has seen significant commercial growth with the expansion of several business parks, including Monkspath Business Park and Solar Park.
Now primarily a large housing estate, it retains its charm with local landmarks like Shelley Farm, a surviving 19th-century building converted into a pub. The area is well-connected by the Number 5 bus route and is served by Widney Manor Railway station.
What the Ranking Means
The inclusion of these two areas in a national top ten underscores the enduring appeal of parts of the West Midlands, combining economic prosperity, quality of life, and community assets. The Deprivation Index provides a comprehensive, data-driven snapshot of what makes a location truly thrive, moving beyond mere aesthetics to measure tangible factors that impact daily living.
For prospective residents and current locals alike, this recognition confirms that these neighbourhoods offer some of the most balanced and high-quality living standards in England.
