New data reveals the UK cities with the highest per capita searches for porn-related keywords. London makes the list, showing that curiosity and desire are thriving even beyond London’s borders.
For years, conversations around porn consumption were framed in silence or shame. But in 2025, sexual literacy, pleasure, and consent are now part of everyday discourse, Curious Brits are taking to search engines in record numbers, including London.
TDM Agency’s new analysis using Google search data exposes the UK’s most porn-curious cities, adjusted for population size. These figures highlight not just shifting norms in how we engage with sex and media but also point to rising comfort in exploring desire online, particularly among younger or digitally native populations.
Top 15 UK Cities with Highest Search Volumes for Porn (Per Capita)
| Cities |
|---|
| Manchester |
| Newcastle-upon-Tyne |
| Norwich |
| Durham |
| Plymouth |
| Salford |
| London |
| Salisbury |
| Birmingham |
| Wakefield |
| Newry |
| Wolverhampton |
| Wrexham |
| Stirling |
| Edinburgh |
You may view the full data set here.
- Manchester – Topping the list, Manchester’s vibrant university population, tech-savvy culture, and strong LGBTQ+ community likely contribute to its high adult content search rates. The city’s open social atmosphere may also reduce stigma around digital intimacy.
- Newcastle-upon-Tyne – With a significant student population and an active nightlife, Newcastle shows high levels of digital engagement. The city’s younger demographic often leads in online media consumption, including adult content.
- Norwich – A surprising contender, Norwich consistently ranks high in digital literacy. The city’s quiet size contrasts with its high online search activity, suggesting that curiosity thrives in smaller, digitally-connected hubs.
- Durham – Home to one of the UK’s top universities, Durham’s rankings are driven by a concentrated student population known for active online habits and openness toward sexual exploration.
- Plymouth – This coastal city’s youthful and military-influenced population may shape its high engagement with adult content, alongside fewer entertainment alternatives compared to larger cities.
What This Means for Culture and Desire
High porn search volumes in a city are cultural indicators. Areas with higher digital literacy, younger populations, or open sexual norms tend to engage more with adult content. For professionals in sex education, tech policy, or relationship therapy, these numbers offer insight into where support and conversation are most needed.
The Effects of High Porn Search Engagement
- Mental Health: Excessive use may impact self-esteem, anxiety levels, or real-world intimacy.
- Relationships: Conflicts may arise when porn use isn’t communicated or aligns poorly with partners’ values.
- Sexual Expectations: Heavy consumption can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations about sex or body image.
- Time Management: Habitual viewing can negatively affect productivity or sleep routines.
Tips for Navigating Porn Use in a Healthy Way
- Set screen time boundaries or app timers.
- Practice mindful viewing: choose content that aligns with your values and doesn’t leave you feeling depleted.
- Talk openly with partners about boundaries and preferences.
- Avoid using porn as a coping mechanism for stress, boredom, or loneliness.
“These numbers don’t surprise me. In 2025, online desire is less about taboo and more about curiosity and comfort. Cities with younger, more digitally native populations are naturally more open to exploring their sexuality through search. What’s more interesting is the shift from large cities to regional hubs: places where tech access meets sexual self-discovery.
We’re also seeing a cultural move toward destigmatising adult content. For LGBTQ+ users, kink communities, or couples exploring together, these platforms serve real relational and emotional needs. This is not just about porn; it’s about understanding digital intimacy,” says Digital Intimacy and Relationship Expert, Liam Turnbull from TDM Agency.
