When it comes to finding the perfect place to raise a family on Merseyside, more and more parents are looking beyond the Liverpool city centre hustle and discovering what Sefton’s coastal communities have known for generations. Crosby and Formby have emerged as two of the region’s most sought-after postcodes for family buyers, and the numbers tell a compelling story. With regional property prices climbing by 14.8% and demand showing no signs of slowing, these L23 and L37 neighbourhoods are proving that coastal living and excellent schools create an irresistible combination for modern families.
Start your coastal move today – explore homes in Crosby & Formby now.
The appeal of buying a house in Crosby
Crosby has long been considered one of Sefton’s hidden gems, but the secret is well and truly out. This vibrant coastal suburb offers families the rare opportunity to enjoy seaside living whilst maintaining excellent transport links to Liverpool city centre, just six miles away. The area’s Victorian and Edwardian properties sit alongside contemporary family homes, providing options for buyers at various price points within the premium market.
The iconic Crosby Beach, home to Antony Gormley’s famous ‘Another Place’ installation, offers families 100 cast-iron figures dotting the shoreline and three miles of sandy beach to explore. Weekend walks along the promenade have become a cherished ritual for local families, whilst the nearby Crosby Coastal Park and Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre provide year-round outdoor activities that keep children engaged with nature.
Outstanding schools driving demand in L23
For families considering buying a house in Crosby, the education provision stands as perhaps the most compelling factor. The area boasts an exceptional concentration of outstanding and good-rated schools that consistently outperform national averages. Range High School, rated Outstanding by Ofsted, draws families from across Merseyside hoping to secure a place within its catchment area. This alone has created significant upward pressure on property values in the immediate vicinity.
St Michael’s Church of England High School offers another outstanding option for secondary education, whilst primary provision includes highly regarded establishments like St Luke’s Church of England Primary and Forefield Community Infant School. The presence of independent options such as Merchant Taylors’ Schools for both boys and girls adds further educational diversity, making Crosby particularly attractive to families prioritising academic excellence.
Formby’s enduring family appeal
Just a short drive up the coast, Formby represents the pinnacle of family living in the Sefton area. This affluent village community combines the best of coastal and countryside living, with the sweeping Formby Beach and its red squirrel population providing a natural playground that few other suburbs can match. The National Trust managed dunes and pine woods offer families hundreds of acres to explore, creating an outdoor lifestyle that feels worlds away from urban living.
Formby’s village centre along Chapel Lane and Three Tuns Lane provides an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants that foster a genuine sense of community. The weekly farmers’ market and local events throughout the year bring families together, creating the kind of neighbourhood connections that modern buyers increasingly value.
Property options in L37
The Formby property market offers everything from charming period cottages to substantial detached family homes on tree-lined avenues. Roads such as Freshfield Road, Victoria Road, and the areas around Formby Hall Golf Club feature some of the most desirable family homes in the entire Liverpool City Region. Properties here typically offer generous gardens, off-street parking, and the space that growing families require.
The recent 14.8% regional price growth has been particularly evident in Formby, where limited housing stock and high demand create a competitive market. However, families view this as an investment in quality of life as much as bricks and mortar, with many buyers planning to remain in the area long-term as their children progress through the excellent local schools.
Educational excellence in Formby
Formby’s schools are consistently ranked among the best in the North West. Formby High School achieves outstanding results and maintains a reputation for academic rigour and pastoral care that attracts families from across the region. Range High School also serves parts of the Formby area, extending its outstanding provision to L37 postcodes.
Primary education options include Woodlands Primary School, Holy Trinity Church of England Primary, and Freshfield Primary School, all of which benefit from strong community support and excellent facilities. The presence of Merchant Taylors’ Schools adds independent education options for families seeking that route.
Transport links and connectivity
Both Crosby and Formby benefit from excellent transport infrastructure that makes commuting to Liverpool city centre straightforward. Crosby has two railway stations, Blundellsands & Crosby and Hall Road, whilst Formby station provides regular services on the Northern Line to Liverpool Central in approximately 30 minutes. This connectivity allows parents to maintain careers in the city whilst providing their children with a coastal upbringing.
Road links via the A565 coastal road and easy access to the M57 and M58 motorways mean that Manchester, Southport, and other regional centres remain within comfortable reach for work or leisure.
Investment potential and market outlook
The 14.8% regional price growth reflects broader market confidence in Sefton’s coastal communities. Property in both Crosby and Formby has historically shown resilience during market downturns, with the combination of limited supply, consistent demand from families, and the enduring appeal of coastal living creating stable long-term value appreciation.
First-time family buyers and those looking to upsize are competing with downsizers who wish to remain in the area, creating a dynamic market where well-presented properties often receive multiple offers. The key for buyers is acting decisively when the right property becomes available, particularly those within the most desirable school catchment areas.
Thinking of selling before you move? Book a free valuation with our local experts today.
Making your move to Sefton’s coast
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant community feel of Crosby or the village charm of Formby, buying a house in Crosby or the surrounding Sefton coastal area represents an investment in your family’s future. The combination of outstanding schools, beautiful natural surroundings, strong community spirit, and excellent transport links creates a lifestyle that’s increasingly rare in today’s property market.
The current market conditions favour decisive buyers who understand the value these areas offer. With regional price growth demonstrating continued confidence and family demand remaining strong, the opportunity to secure your ideal home in L23 or L37 shouldn’t be delayed.
Ready to explore what Crosby and Formby have to offer your family? Contact Whitegates Sefton today to arrange viewings of our latest family homes in these sought-after coastal communities. Our local experts understand these neighbourhoods inside out and can help you find the perfect property to match your family’s needs and budget. Get in touch now and take the first step towards your coastal lifestyle.
