The research, carried out by Outdoortoys, analysed factors including crime rates, childcare costs, school standards, green space and access to family attractions to determine where family life is easiest to manage across England.
Swindon achieved an overall “child raisability score” of 6.7 out of 10, placing it behind only Sheffield and Milton Keynes in the national rankings.
One of the biggest factors behind Swindon’s high position was its low crime rate, which the report said was the lowest of any area included in the study at 68 incidents per 1,000 people.
Researchers said lower crime levels can have a major impact on daily family life, allowing children greater independence and giving parents more confidence about outdoor play and travelling locally with friends.
The report also highlighted Swindon’s comparatively affordable childcare costs, averaging £900 per month for preschool care, alongside strong school ratings and good access to green space.
According to the study, 66 per cent of schools in the area are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted, while residents benefit from nearly 1,000 square metres of green space per person.
The findings come as Swindon continues to push its image as a growing family and commuter town, with ongoing investment in housing developments, transport links and leisure facilities across the borough.
However, the research is likely to spark debate locally, particularly among residents concerned about pressure on GP services, school places, congestion and rapid housing expansion in some parts of the town.
The methodology of the study and rankings are based on weighted data chosen by the researchers rather than official Government league tables.
At the opposite end of the rankings, Manchester was named the most challenging place in England to raise a family, largely due to high crime levels.
Alex Price, Product Manager at Outdoortoys, said outdoor access remains one of the biggest influences on childhood development. He said:
“When there’s somewhere nearby to play, a local park, safe open space, or even a garden with swings or climbing frames, children tend to spend more time being active and independent.
“Over time, that builds confidence, social skills, and a sense of freedom that’s much harder to develop when outdoor time is limited or heavily planned.”
Councillor Gary Sumner, who is expected to become the new Leader of Swindon Borough Council following next week’s annual council meeting, said the ranking reflected many of the town’s strengths, but warned there was still more to do to support future generations. He said:
“Swindon is a safe and welcoming place to make your home and raise your family, and this recognition reflects the hard work of local schools, community groups and families across the borough. But we also need to be more ambitious for future generations.
As Swindon continues to grow, we must make sure development is shaped with children and families in mind, delivering new schools, GP surgeries, green spaces and accessible play parks alongside new homes. We want Swindon to remain not just one of the best places to raise a family today, but for decades to come.”
