12 Best Places to Live in London

City life is not for everyone; however, many of those who choose to live in London wouldn’t have it any other way.

Whether you’re drawn to the bustling centre of the capital or its sleepier outskirts, London has an area fit for everyone’s needs.

But with so many incredible boroughs to choose from, finding the right one for you may take some time and require some assistance.

Our compelling guide to 12 of the best places to live in London is designed to capture your interest and help you make an informed decision if you are planning to move to this amazing city.

For added information, we have included the cost to buy and rent a home in each of the areas, although we would recommend keeping up to date with the latest prices and things change quickly in the capital!

London offers endless opportunities for entertainment, career advancement, cultural experiences and forging new friendships.

Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or an expat, London’s vibrancy and excellent amenities make it an ideal place to call home.

1.) Camden

Camden is a truly iconic area of London, with is famous market and street art.

Camden Town stands out as one of the best places in the capital, famous for its alternative culture, bustling markets, and vibrant music scene.

This lively area is a magnet for creatives and young professionals who enjoy its unique blend of eclectic shops, live music venues, and eclectic nightlife (there really is something for everyone here).

The streets of Camden are lined with street art and upmarket galleries, creating an artistic vibe that embodies everything the area is about.

The market is a highlight, a treasure trove of vintage finds that attracts people from all over the city and beyond.

Food lovers will also appreciate Camden’s diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving cuisine from around the globe.

Residents can enjoy a picturesque canal-side walk, adding a charming touch to everyday life.

Nearby Primrose Hill offers fresh air and stunning city views, the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts or a lovely summer picnic.

The average house price in Camden is £1,290,675 while renting a one-bedroom flat starts at £1,950.

Camden Town is well-connected, even for London, with excellent transport links, including the Northern Line and numerous bus routes ensuring locals have easy access to central London and other parts of the city.

2.) Kentish Town

Kentish Town is a great alternative to the highly-priced Camden.

Kentish Town retains Camden’s arty, lively vibe but at a more affordable price point.

Known for its amazing choice of pubs and bars, the area is a favourite among people of all ages and is considered a very trendy spot.

Whether you prefer a traditional British pub or a trendy bar, Kentish Town’s nightlife offers variety without the premium prices found in more tourist-heavy areas, making it a haven for many locals.

Keep in mind, these are still London prices, so don’t expect a pint for £1!

Beyond its vibrant nightlife, Kentish Town is well-connected with excellent transport links, allowing easy access to the rest of London.

Many of the area’s streets are lined with charming Victorian houses, quirky apartments, and plenty of parks and outdoor areas like the popular Hampstead Heath.

Living in Kentish Town offers more than just affordability; it also ensures a high quality of life.

The area boasts a variety of local shops, markets, and cafes, ensuring residents have everything they need at their doorstep.

The current average house price in Kentish Town is £810,501, with one-bedroom flats starting from £1,550.

This excellent neighbourhood combines the best of city living with a lower price tag, making it a top choice for those looking to enjoy a lively yet affordable lifestyle in one of London’s most popular areas.

3.) North Greenwich

North Greenwich has quickly become one of the most desirable places to live in London, thanks to significant investment and regeneration efforts over recent years.

Nestled along the Thames, Greenwich offers its residents the epitome of modern living and urban convenience.

One of North Greenwich’s standout features is its stunning new apartment buildings, which provide breathtaking views of the river.

These contemporary residences are complemented by a wealth of amenities, including a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and even an outlet shopping centre, catering to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

The O2 Arena, a premier entertainment venue, adds an extra layer of excitement, hosting world-class concerts and events.

Excellent transport links whisk locals effortlessly away to the rest of London, the Jubilee Line offers quick access to Canary Wharf and Central London, while the Emirates Air Line cable car provides a unique commuting experience across the Thames with panoramic city views.

Buses and riverboat services also serve the area, ensuring a range of convenient and unconventional travel options.

Property prices in North Greenwich have seen a steady rise, reflecting the area’s growing popularity and development.

The current average house price in North Greenwich is £669,949 and renting a one-bedroom flat starts from £1,400

4.) Richmond

Richmond is one of the most scenic spots in the capital.

Richmond upon Thames in South West London is known for its scenic beauty and tranquilly.

The area offers a unique blend of city convenience and natural beauty, yes in London!

A standout feature of Richmond is its distinction as the only London borough situated on both sides of the Thames.

This unique location adds to the charm of the area, making it a sought-after location for those seeking a home on the river whilst maintaining a lively city feel.

Richmond Park, the largest royal park in London, spans 2,500 acres and serves as a national nature reserve.

It is home to diverse wildlife, including herds of deer, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

Living in Richmond means having easy easy access to lush local landscapes as well as London’s bustling heart.

Just 8 miles from Charing Cross, Richmond has excellent transport links, with the District Line and numerous bus routes making travel quick and seamless.

Unsurprisingly, life in Richmond comes at a premium; however, the area continues to attract residents due to its safe, community-oriented environment.

The current average house price in Richmond is £947,187 while renting a one-bedroom flat starts from £1,250.

5.) Notting Hill

A London west-end gem, Notting Hill is packed with cultural richness making the area stand out as a premium location in the capital.

This iconic neighbourhood, known for being featured in the movie of the same name, offers an exciting blend of high-end restaurants, charming cafes, and unique boutique shops frequented by the occasional celebrity.

The local community thrives on its cultural events and lively festivals, making every day a new adventure.

One of Notting Hill’s standout features is its annual festivals, most notably the world-famous Notting Hill Carnival.

This must-see event celebrates Caribbean culture with colourful parades, music, and street food, drawing crowds from all over the globe.

Additionally, the famous Portobello Road Market offers an eclectic mix of antiques, fashion, and fresh produce, providing locals with a unique shopping experience right on their doorstep.

Notting Hill’s family-friendly environment and picturesque streets, lined with pastel-coloured houses, make it one of London’s most desirable places to live.

The neighbourhood is known for its affluence, with the average home price currently around £2,049,422 and one-bed rentals starting from £1,700pcm.

Despite the high property prices, the quality of life and the rich cultural tapestry justify the investment.

6.) Kensington

Kensington is one of London’s most iconic areas.

Kensington, located in the prestigious Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, epitomises luxury living in central London.

This upscale region of the capital is renowned for its elegant streets, grand Victorian architecture, and close proximity to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural institutions.

Life in Kensington means having the world-famous Hyde Park practically at your doorstep!

Its prime location also places residents close to the River Thames, Westminster, and the popular Hammersmith and Chelsea areas, what more could you want?

Kensington is a cultural and historical hub home to Albertopolis, a district named after Prince Albert.

Here, you’ll find some of London’s finest museums, including the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, which are ideal for a great day out but also host numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year.

The area is known for its safety, lavish lifestyle, and choice of high-end boutiques, top restaurants, and a great cafe culture.

Add to the mix excellent schools and easy access to central London’s amenities it is a very hard location to beat.

However, living in Kensington comes with a significant price tag.

The average property price in the area is currently around £2,401,572 and one-bedroom flats for rent from £2,000, reflect its status as one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods.

7.) Fulham

Fulham’s riverside location makes it an especially popular area.

Situated within the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham in South West London, Fulham is one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods.

Fulham offers locals a lifestyle of great diversity with the tranquillity of nearby parks and bustling streets full of activity all year round.

Bishops Park and Fulham Palace Gardens provide beautiful, serene spots for outdoor activities, family picnics, and leisurely strolls along the Thames.

Fulham is also a culinary hotspot, packed with high-end restaurants.

The Michelin-starred River Café stands out, renowned for its exceptional Italian cuisine and picturesque riverside terrace.

For a more casual dining experience, Fulham’s diverse food scene caters to all tastes, with numerous options for every palate.

Easy access to several underground stations and plenty of bus routes make commuting into central London and beyond easy.

This excellent connectivity, combined with picturesque surroundings and great amenities, makes Fulham an exceptional place to live.

The average property price in Fulham is £1,283,443, with one-bedroom rentals costing approximately £1,500 per month.

Despite the premium prices, the quality of life and rich array of amenities justify the investment, making Fulham one of the best places to live in London.

8.) Hammersmith

Next on our list of best places to live in London is Hammersmith.

Hammersmith, a vibrant and sought-after area in West London, offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and a calm riverside atmosphere.

Located within the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, this mostly middle-class neighbourhood is ideal for families and singles alike, thanks to its diverse amenities and strong community feel.

One of this area’s most prominent features is its excellent transport links, which are better than those of most of our other top picks on this list.

Residents enjoy easy access to Central London and Heathrow Airport with multiple Tube stations, including Hammersmith on the Piccadilly, District, and Hammersmith & City lines.

There is no need to travel far to enjoy a variety of entertainment options, from the iconic Hammersmith Apollo, which hosts world-class concerts and events, to numerous pubs, bars, and restaurants.

Moving with children? Local educational institutions include the Godolphin and Latymer School and the Latymer Upper School.

Highly regarded, they deliver quality education options for local children.

Again, house prices in Hammersmith are relatively high, more so than those available in neighbouring Fulham that we just discussed, with an average property price of around £989,030.

To rent a one-bedroom flat, you can budget for upwards of £1,582pcm

9.) Herne Hill

Herne Hill is a top choice for commuters and families.

Nestled between the London Boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark, Herne Hill is a sophisticated neighbourhood in southeast London and has been popular with affluent Londoners for quite some time.

Located approximately 4 miles south of Charing Cross, Herne Hill is bordered by Camberwell to the north, Peckham, and Dulwich Village to the east, Tulse Hill to the south, and Brixton to the west.

Despite its compact area, Herne Hill makes up for its size with an abundance of amenities, making it a highly desirable place to live.

This leafy suburb is renowned for the sprawling 125-acre Brockwell Park, a beloved green space perfect for a dose of greenery.

The park, combined with a variety of independent shops, charming eateries, and excellent Zone 2 transport links, makes Herne Hill a great choice for families and homebuyers seeking a convenient commute.

Olley’s Fish and Chips, a renowned local eatery, highlights Herne Hill’s culinary scene and attracts both residents and visitors.

Herne Hill’s quirky boutique stores and local shops are complemented by the lively Herne Hill Market, which spreads across the area outside the station every Sunday.

The market features a diverse array of stalls, offering everything from vintage clothing to fresh cheese, adding a vibrant touch to the community.

Herne Hill’s housing market features a mix of newer and older properties, including many larger homes.

This variety appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers, from young professionals to growing families.

The average house price is £1,029,900 and rentals can be found from £1,283pcm.

10.) Putney

There are plenty of reasons to settle in Putney, a charming area of south-west London sitting along the banks of the Thames.

Though it may appeal to a range of buyers, this location is especially suited for families.

The area has a choice of highly rated state and private schools, making it a popular choice for those with children.

Putney’s excellent commuter routes also provide easy access to central London, just six miles away.

Once a quaint waterside village, its rich past includes notable figures such as Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s chief minister!

A blue plaque on Brewhouse Lane commemorates Cromwell, who was born in Putney in 1485.

Aside from its rich history, the river plays a central role in life here.

East of Putney Bridge, you’ll find riverside restaurants, pubs, and modern homes in the Putney Wharf development.

The riverbank is lined with boathouses on the west side, creating a picturesque setting for walkers and rowing enthusiasts.

However, there is a slight downside, Putney Bridge is one of London’s busiest Thames crossings meaning rush-hour commutes can be lengthy.

Putney High Street has seen significant improvement in recent years, now offering a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Housing options in Putney are diverse, ranging from Victorian cottages and large Edwardian mansions to period conversion flats and modern apartments along the river and Upper Richmond Road.

This variety allows residents to easily upsize or downsize, fostering a strong sense of community as people tend to stay in the area.

Cost-wise, the average property in Putney currently stands at £817,887 with rentals starting at £1,420pcm.

11.) St Johns Wood

Moving to St. John’s Wood offers numerous advantages, making it a top choice for those contemplating a move to London.

St. John’s Wood stands as one of London’s most coveted locales, seamlessly blending village life’s charm with Central London’s excitement.

Though it feels a world away from the centre of London, it’s just a short hop from the heart of the city.

This prestigious area is a haven for celebrities and musicians who seek the peace of a village whilst remaining very well yet connected.

Safety is a significant draw for people moving here, with St. John’s Wood boasting lower crime rates compared to many London boroughs.

Another top feature of this area is its stunning Edwardian and Victorian-style homes, which are complemented by tree-lined streets, creating a hard-to-beat picturesque setting.

Designated as a Conservation Area in the 1960s, many homes are listed by English Heritage, ensuring the preservation of their architectural splendour.

The family-friendly atmosphere is evident in its community-centric lifestyle, with numerous green spaces and top-rated schools enhancing its appeal.

In essence, St. John’s Wood is a prime choice.

It is a serene, upscale neighbourhood with a welcoming family vibe, providing the perfect blend of city convenience and suburban tranquillity.

You can’t buy a home here for less than £500,000, and the average price is £2,218,028 while renters can budget for a one-bedroom flat, which will cost £2,925pcm.

12.) Brixton

Brixton is one of the cheaper options on our list but doesn’t mean locals have to compromise.

Four miles from central London, Brixton is a dynamic hotspot brimming with cultural diversity and excitement.

An easy eleven-minute ride on the Victoria line connects you from Victoria to Brixton, placing you right in the heart of this lively neighbourhood in the borough of Lambeth.

Once home to famous personalities like David Bowie and John Major, Brixton boasts a rich history and a promising future. Originally a rural farming community, Brixton transformed into a bustling middle-class suburb with the arrival of the railways in the 19th century.

However, post-war challenges led to socio-economic difficulties, marked by poor housing, unemployment, and tensions that culminated in the riots of the 1980s and 1990s.

Today, Brixton stands as a testament to the successful regeneration projects that have been rolled out across London in recent years.

This multicultural corner of the capital celebrates its diversity with a crazy nightlife, global cuisines, a rich music and cultural scene, and a plethora of festivals.

The area’s eclectic vibe attracts young professionals, long-time residents, and young families, all of whom enjoy the competitive property prices that have seen significant growth in recent years.

Connectivity is seamless in Brixton. As the starting point of the Victoria line, Brixton station ensures easy access to central London, with a comfortable seat during rush hour often a pleasant surprise.

A quick trip to London St. Pancras takes just under half an hour, making commuting a breeze.

Those considering a move to Brixton are in for a treat as it is the cheapest location on our list when it comes to property values.

Its lower rent prices and an influx of young adults who have moved to the area make it a very lively location to consider moving to.

The average price for a home here currently stands at £616,180, and if you are renting, you can budget upward of £1,350 for a one-bedroom flat.

Ready to Move to One of the Best Places to Live in London?

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Are you considering a move to London?

Our guide to the best places to live in our capital city can help you find the perfect spot.

Rely on White & Company to make your move easier.

Established well over 150 years ago, we have become a trusted name in the London house removal industry.

To start planning your dream relocation, contact us today or fill out a quick quote form to see how we can help you make your move to London a reality.

We can arrange for a surveyor to call in person; alternatively, we now offer a video service.

We can conduct a survey at a time that suits you.

Our surveys are totally free of cost, and there is no obligation to proceed.

You can be sure that White & Company is here to help you transition to one of the best places to live in London, seamlessly and as stress-free as we can possibly make it.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.