Buying and Renting in Newtownabbey: A Neighbourhood-by-Neighbourhood Guide

Newtownabbey is a borough rather than a single town, and the experience of living here varies significantly depending on which neighbourhood you choose. From affordable starter homes in Glengormley to loughside properties in Jordanstown, the borough covers a wide range of property types, price points, and lifestyles.

Our office is on the Antrim Road in the heart of Newtownabbey, and we have been selling and letting properties across these neighbourhoods for over a decade. This guide breaks them down so you can work out which part suits you best.

The neighbourhoods

Glengormley

The largest residential area within Newtownabbey, Glengormley is popular with families for its schools, local shops, and easy access to the M2. Property here ranges from starter terraces around £85,000 to larger detached homes above £200,000. The area has a strong community feel and reliable demand from both buyers and renters. For a full breakdown, see our Glengormley area guide.

Jordanstown

Jordanstown sits along the shore of Belfast Lough and has a more affluent feel. The former Ulster University campus is here (now being redeveloped), and the Shore Road provides a scenic route into Belfast. Properties tend to be larger and more expensive than in Glengormley, with detached homes on the lough side commanding premiums. Three-bedroom semis in Jordanstown typically range from £170,000 to £240,000.

Jordanstown has its own train station on the Belfast to Larne line, making it a good option for commuters who prefer rail to road. The loughshore path is ideal for walking, running, and cycling.

Whiteabbey

Whiteabbey sits between Glengormley and Jordanstown, with a village centre, local shops, and a quiet residential atmosphere. It has a mix of older housing stock and newer developments. Prices generally sit between Glengormley and Jordanstown levels. The village has its own train halt on the Belfast to Larne line.

Carnmoney

Carnmoney offers a semi-rural feel while still being minutes from the M2 and Sandyknowes. The area is centred around Carnmoney Hill, a public park with walking trails and panoramic views. Property here is predominantly semi-detached and detached, with three-bedroom semis ranging from £150,000 to £200,000. It is popular with families who want green space on their doorstep without moving to a rural location.

Transport

Transport links are one of Newtownabbey's strongest selling points. The M2 motorway runs through the borough, putting Belfast city centre within 10 to 15 minutes by car (outside rush hour). The Antrim Road provides an alternative route into north Belfast.

Train stations at Jordanstown, Whiteabbey, and Mossley West serve commuters heading into Belfast Central or Great Victoria Street. Journey times are typically 15 to 25 minutes, and services run regularly throughout the day.

Metro bus services connect all the main residential areas to Belfast, and the Glider rapid transit route is accessible from the city centre end of the commute.

Shopping

The Abbey Centre is Newtownabbey's main shopping destination. It has a full range of high street names, a food court, supermarkets, and free parking. For day-to-day essentials, each neighbourhood has its own local shops and convenience stores.

Belfast city centre, with its Victoria Square and CastleCourt shopping centres, is a short drive or bus ride away for anything the Abbey Centre does not cover.

Schools

Newtownabbey has a strong selection of schools at all levels. Post-primary options include Glengormley High School, Edmund Rice College, Newtownabbey Community High School, and several others. For grammar school places, pupils typically transfer to schools in Belfast (Belfast Royal Academy, Belfast High School, Dominican College) or Ballyclare.

Primary school provision is good across all neighbourhoods, with both controlled and maintained sector options. The borough also has nursery and pre-school facilities.

Property market overview

The Newtownabbey property market has been consistently strong. Demand comes from a mix of first-time buyers, growing families, and downsizers. The area offers genuine value compared to south and east Belfast, without sacrificing convenience or quality of life.

As a rough guide to current prices for a three-bedroom semi-detached house:

• Glengormley: £110,000 to £155,000
• Whiteabbey: £140,000 to £190,000
• Jordanstown: £170,000 to £240,000
• Carnmoney: £150,000 to £200,000

Detached homes and properties on larger plots can push well beyond these ranges, particularly in Jordanstown and the semi-rural edges of the borough.

Rental market

The rental market in Newtownabbey is strong and getting stronger. Demand for two and three-bedroom properties outstrips supply, and rents have increased noticeably over the past two years. A two-bedroom apartment in the area typically lets for £550 to £700 per month. Three-bedroom semis command £700 to £900+ depending on condition and location.

For landlords, Newtownabbey offers solid yields and low void periods. The combination of transport links, schools, and affordability makes it popular with tenants who cannot yet afford to buy or who want flexibility.

If you are looking to rent, browse our properties to rent in Newtownabbey. Our lettings team manages a portfolio of properties across the borough and can help you find the right place.

Why buyers keep choosing Newtownabbey

It comes down to the combination. Good transport, solid schools, a range of property types and prices, and a location that puts you close to Belfast without being in the thick of it. Add in the loughshore, Cavehill on the doorstep, and the Abbey Centre for convenience, and you have an area that ticks most of the boxes for most buyers.

Browse our properties for sale in Newtownabbey, or book a free valuation if you are thinking of selling. Our office is on the Antrim Road, and we are always happy to have a chat about the local market.