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UK Area Guides › Hilsea
Portsmouth Postcodes: PO3

Hilsea cost of living, rent & area guide (2026/27)

Hilsea, located in the eastern part of Portsmouth, offers a residential feel with good access to local amenities. It's generally considered a safe area, appealing to families and professionals seeking a quieter base with convenient transport links to the city centre.

Avg 1-bed rent £850/mo City centre & suburbs
Flatshare room £580/mo Bills often included
Recommended salary £35,000/yr ~£2,361/mo take-home
Livability score 7.2 / 10 Safety: High

Housing market & rental breakdown in Hilsea

The property market in Hilsea primarily consists of terraced houses and some purpose-built flats, with a steady demand for rentals. The area is well-established, offering a mix of owner-occupied and rented properties, generally at more accessible price points than central Portsmouth.

2026/27 Affordability rule: To keep your 1-bedroom rent (£850/mo) at ~35% of net income under the 2026/27 UK PAYE tax code 1257L, a single professional in Hilsea typically needs a gross annual salary of around £35,000 (£2,361 net/month).

Public transport, commuting & connectivity

  • Trains/Metro: Hilsea Station (South Western Railway services to London Waterloo, Portsmouth, Southampton).
  • Buses: First Hampshire & Dorset services including routes 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 13, 21, 23, 25, 39.

Relocation links: Nearest Airport: Southampton Airport (SOU). Travel time: 45 min. Estimated taxi cost: £65. Major Rail Station: Portsmouth Harbour. Travel time: 20 min. Estimated taxi cost: £18.

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