Best Places To Live in London
London stands out as one of the greatest cities globally, blending gritty historic charm with dazzling modernity. As the UK’s capital, it offers world-class culture, cutting-edge fashion, and a surprisingly innovative food scene. With one of the best transit systems in the world, getting around is a breeze.
But if you’ve decided that London is your destination, how do you determine which neighborhood is the best fit for you? Whether you’re looking for the best parks and playgrounds, the top craft beer spots, vibrant outdoor yoga scenes, trendy bookstores, or all-night eateries, London has it all. To help you navigate this diverse city and find your ideal spot, here’s our guide to the best places to live in London.
What’s it like to live in London?
London is a sprawling, global metropolis with a population of nearly 9 million, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the authentic buzz of urban culture, the dynamic energy of commercial hubs, or a more relaxed, family-friendly environment, London has it all.
For modern city living, Canary Wharf stands out, while the vibrant neighborhoods of Brixton, Hackney, and Tottenham serve up a rich mix of international cuisine and culture. If you prefer a slower pace, the leafy areas of West London along the Thames might be ideal. In North London, Islington, Camden, and St. John’s Wood cater to the city’s trendsetters and professionals, offering a stylish and sophisticated lifestyle.
10 Best places To live in London
1. Camden
2. North Greenwich
3. Shoreditch and Hoxton
4. Putney
5. Marylebone
6. Brixton
7. Dulwich
8. Bermondsey
9. Highbury and Islington
10. Clapham
1. Camden
Situated just north of St Pancras, the capital’s only international station, Camden is renowned as one of North London’s most vibrant neighborhoods. At its core, Camden Lock offers a dynamic mix of canalside bars, cafés, market stalls, and creative spaces. It also features some of London’s premier live music venues, such as the Electric Ballroom and the iconic Roundhouse. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby parks abound, with Primrose Hill standing out for its stunning panoramic views of the city.
For those seeking the best places to live in London, accommodation near Camden Town metro station typically consists of apartments. If you’re after more spacious homes, the exclusive Primrose Hill area adjacent to the park is an excellent choice. While Camden’s boho-chic atmosphere comes with a higher price tag, more budget-friendly options can be found in nearby neighborhoods like Chalk Farm, Kentish Town, and Barnsbury.
2. North Greenwich
While North Greenwich isn’t commonly listed among the best places to live in London yet, this is likely to change in the coming years. The Greenwich Peninsula neighborhood is undergoing rapid development, extending south from the iconic dome of The O2 leisure complex. This area now boasts modern residential high-rises along the River Thames, alongside a growing selection of restaurants, cafés, and world-class retail outlets. Residents enjoy popular riverside trails and a stunning driving range that keep them active and engaged.
North Greenwich is predominantly made up of apartments, making it a popular choice for young professionals and couples. It’s an excellent option for those working in Canary Wharf, just one metro stop away, or frequent travelers due to its proximity to London City Airport. For families seeking more traditional homes, the nearby historic neighborhood of Greenwich offers family-friendly options and is home to the renowned Royal Observatory.
3. Shoreditch and Hoxton
Once the hub of London’s budget clothing industry, this former industrial area in East London now boasts a vibrant and trendy scene, particularly in the neighborhoods of Shoreditch and Hoxton. These areas have become a magnet for stylish locals, offering a diverse range of clubs, bars, restaurants, and shops. Although green spaces are limited, Shoreditch Park is a popular spot where people gather when the weather is nice.
Shoreditch and Hoxton are dynamic communities blending young creatives, local families, city professionals, and even celebrities. The housing here largely consists of older council estates and terraced houses, but modern touches are present throughout. Prices tend to decrease as you move east from Liverpool Street station, with more affordable options available along the Regent’s Canal. Houseboats are also becoming a trendy choice for young Londoners seeking a unique living experience.
4. Putney
If you’re searching for one of the best places to live in London that offers a quieter atmosphere while still being easily accessible to central London, Putney might be the perfect choice. Situated along the scenic banks of the River Thames in South West London, Putney has a distinct market town feel rather than a typical London suburb. The central area of Putney features a charming mix of local independent shops and national retailers, as well as a variety of inviting pubs to explore. The picturesque Thames riverside provides excellent walking and running trails, and for a true escape from city life, Richmond Park—three times the size of New York’s Central Park—is just a short distance away.
Though Putney is the furthest from the city center compared to other neighborhoods on this list, it boasts a direct rail link to Waterloo Station, with a journey time of about 15 minutes. The housing market in Putney offers a diverse range of options, including new apartments, family homes, and elegant Edwardian mansions, all nestled along tranquil residential streets. This blend of features makes Putney a sought-after location for young couples seeking more space and families in search of a community-friendly environment.
5. Marylebone
Nestled quietly between Paddington and Euston stations, Marylebone is one of the best places to live in London for those seeking a tranquil yet vibrant neighborhood. This charming area offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Oxford Street, with its peaceful residential streets and an array of eclectic dining options. Families and young professionals alike are drawn to Marylebone’s unique character.
At the heart of the neighborhood is the bustling Marylebone High Street, lined with a variety of pubs and cafés. The area is distinguished by its grand terraced houses and secluded parkland squares. While many original homes have been converted into flats or offices, some still retain their traditional charm, offering more spacious living options.
Though living in the city center is typically costly, Marylebone is slightly more affordable compared to nearby areas like Mayfair and Fitzrovia. Its central location also means you can save on transport costs, with much of London’s West End within easy walking distance.
6. Brixton
Few London neighborhoods can match the vibrancy of Brixton. As soon as you emerge from the metro station, you’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere, with enticing aromas, dynamic sounds, and a vibrant display of colors all around. Once known for its turbulent past, Brixton has evolved into a multicultural hub that embodies the essence of modern London. This eclectic area in South London is celebrated for its diverse dining, drinking, and socializing options, all underpinned by a strong community spirit.
Brixton’s energetic vibe has made it a hotspot for young professionals moving to the city, which has driven up rental and housing prices. Nevertheless, compared to other sought-after London neighborhoods, Brixton remains relatively affordable. The housing stock here is varied, including terraced houses, historic council estates, and contemporary new developments. With excellent metro connections, Brixton is a favored choice for commuters heading to areas like Soho and King’s Cross.
7. Dulwich
Another excellent choice for expats is the leafy South London neighborhood of Dulwich, which stands out among the best places to live in London. Despite its lack of a metro station, Dulwich remains a well-kept secret for many Londoners. This has allowed the area to cultivate a charming small-town atmosphere, reflected in the laid-back pubs and cafés that line its main streets. Dulwich Park, with its popular boating lake, and the local football team, Dulwich Hamlet FC, add to the area’s appeal.
The village-like ambiance of Dulwich has made it a favorite among families and young professionals seeking a unique London lifestyle. Direct trains from Dulwich to London Bridge take about 15 minutes, and cycling routes into the city are continually improving. The housing stock primarily consists of Edwardian and Victorian buildings, with some converted into flats. Expect to pay a premium for properties with park views or those close to a mainline train station with easy access to central London.
8. Bermondsey
If you’re exploring the best places to live in London, Bermondsey presents a captivating choice for expats. Located just east of London Bridge station, this riverside neighborhood offers a blend of modern city life with a distinctive charm. Bermondsey Street stands out with its eclectic mix of quirky cafés, restaurants, and one of London’s most unique weekly antique markets. Around Butler’s Wharf, converted dockside warehouses now house trendy waterfront eateries, and further east, Southwark Park provides a popular green space.
When considering a move to Bermondsey, you’ll find a variety of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets. Along the River Thames, modern apartments and stylish waterfront lofts are prevalent. Moving slightly inland, you’ll discover a more affordable selection of terraced houses, older council estates, and new-build developments. The area’s excellent transport links, including its proximity to Bermondsey station and just two metro stops from Canary Wharf, make it an ideal location for those working in the City or Canary Wharf.
9. Highbury and Islington
Highbury and Islington in North London have long been among the capital’s most desirable neighborhoods. Centered around bustling Upper Street, Islington buzzes with activity, boasting a vibrant array of bars, cinemas, theaters, and diverse shops. In contrast, Highbury, located to the north, offers a more residential feel, with charming pubs and stylish cafés. However, expect increased crowds on match days when Arsenal FC plays at their home ground.
Islington’s main residential zone stretches north from the Regent’s Canal, featuring streets and squares adorned with elegant old terraced houses. Beyond this, the housing mix varies, with social housing interspersed among Victorian and Georgian townhouses. Highbury is particularly family-friendly, offering spacious homes and green areas. Both neighborhoods provide excellent connections to the West End and the City, making them ideal for expats settling in London.
10. Clapham
When Londoners refer to Clapham, they might be talking about various neighborhoods surrounding the expansive Clapham Common park. For expats new to the area, this can be a bit confusing. Clapham High Street, known for its lively bars and restaurants, draws a younger crowd, while Clapham Old Town offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its boutiques, cafés, and delis catering to local families and young professionals. On sunny days, Clapham Common becomes the focal point, attracting visitors from across the capital.
As one of the best places to live in London, Clapham’s popularity is reflected in its house prices. The housing options include terrace homes, modern new-builds, and council estates, catering to a range of budgets. For those seeking more affordable rentals and purchases, areas like Tooting and Balham, situated further down the Northern line, present viable alternatives. These neighborhoods remain conveniently accessible to central London, making them attractive choices for expats.
