15 Best Places to Live in South East England
Relocating to the South East of England can be a life-changing decision, whether you’re searching for bustling town centres, spectacular coastlines, or peaceful countryside retreats.
This region is renowned for its rich heritage, diverse cultural scene, and excellent transport links.
It is a top contender for anyone hoping to combine modern living with classic English charm.
If you’re looking for a bustling social scene, you’ll discover lively festivals and various leisure activities that ensure you’ll never be short of weekend plans.
On the other hand, if serenity and green spaces are your priorities, the South East also boasts picturesque parks and rolling hills that allow you to unwind at your own pace.
One of the most significant benefits of settling in this region is the abundance of reputable schools and universities, ranging from smaller local academies to world-renowned institutions.
The area also caters well to professionals who commute to London, with many towns offering quick and convenient rail and road connections into the city.
Excellent amenities, including diverse shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, make daily life comfortable and enjoyable.
Plus, if you love travelling abroad, you’ll find several international airports within easy reach.
In this article, we’ll explore the fifteen best places to live in South East England.
Each location offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern facilities, perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Read on to discover where you’ll find your ideal home in this enchanting corner of the country.
1. Canterbury
Canterbury is a top choice for those considering a move to Kent.
Ancient, cobbled streets, a majestic cathedral, and a thriving cultural scene make Canterbury a truly special place to call home.
Its medieval architecture stands alongside modern eateries and boutiques, ensuring a perfect balance of old and new.
Canterbury is home to several highly regarded educational institutions, including Canterbury Christ Church University and The King’s School Canterbury, providing excellent opportunities for families looking to settle in the area.
The world-famous Canterbury Cathedral is an essential stop for history enthusiasts, while those craving retail therapy can head to Whitefriars Shopping Centre.
If you’re craving some open countryside, the Kent Downs are just a short drive away, offering rolling hills and scenic walking routes.
Thinking of buying a home here? You are in luck; Canterbury is very reasonably priced.
Homes sell for an average of £343,000.
2. Brighton
The culture and vibrant community found in Brighton is hard to beat.
Brighton’s reputation as a lively seaside destination has made it a favourite among professionals, artists, and families seeking a cosmopolitan atmosphere with coastal charm.
Well-known for its iconic pier and pebble beach, the city brims with independent shops, trendy cafés, and a vibrant nightlife.
Educational choices abound, including Brighton College and a campus of the University of Sussex.
Brighton also boasts an efficient rail service, which links residents to London in about an hour.
This is a win for commuters!
If you’re up for a day of exploration, wander through the bohemian streets of North Laine or experience the carnival spirit of Brighton’s annual festivals, such as Pride and the Fringe.
Apartments make up the majority of property sales in Brighton, and you can purchase a two-bedroom flat from around £200,000.
3. Winchester
Winchester is a great option for those seeking a balance of history and modern convenience.
Upmarket Winchester combines rich historical roots with modern suburban living, making it a top contender for those wanting a balanced lifestyle.
Its cathedral, one of the largest in Europe, dominates the skyline, while the surrounding streets host independent shops, markets, and a range of eateries.
Popular local schools, such as Peter Symonds College and Ofsted rated outstanding Westgate School, give families confidence in the city’s education system.
Commuters will appreciate Winchester’s direct train route to London Waterloo, which takes just under an hour.
The city’s friendly atmosphere, green spaces, and mix of classic and modern architecture truly set it apart and make it one of the most sought-after locations in the region.
Living in this stunning location doesn’t come cheap, with homes selling for an average of £601,000.
4. Guildford
A move to Guildford offers buyers plenty of excellent amenities.
Nestled amidst the Surrey Hills, Guildford delivers an appealing mix of modern amenities and scenic surroundings.
The River Wey flows through its charming town centre, dotted with upmarket shops, popular restaurants, and an eclectic arts scene.
Highly rated schools, including Guildford High School and George Abbot School, make this town a strong family choice.
With trains running regularly into central London, Guildford is a favourite among commuters seeking more space and a slightly slower pace of life.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Surrey Hills beauty spots, while culture lovers will appreciate venues like G Live for concerts and events.
Though there has been a drop in the cost of a home in Guildford, you can expect to pay around £500,000 for a detached property
5. Royal Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells is another excellent choice in Kent.
This historic spa town in Kent draws residents with its distinctive Georgian architecture and attractive green spaces.
The Pantiles, a collonaded walkway at the heart of Tunbridge Wells, hosts bustling markets, boutique shops, and charming cafés.
Families with children can explore top-rated schools, such as Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School and The Skinners’ School.
Commuters enjoy trains to central London in under an hour, making it possible to work in the city while savouring the comforts of a smaller town.
Parks like Dunorlan Park and Calverley Grounds provide tranquil spots to unwind, while the local events calendar keeps residents busy throughout the year.
Although the town has royal connections, homes are not as expensive as you might think. Three-bedroom detached homes cost just under £ 500,000.
6. Oxford
Oxford is a city packed with character.
Synonymous with academic excellence, Oxford is far more than just a university city.
Yes, the prestigious University of Oxford draws in students and visitors from around the world.
Still, the city’s character reflects its thriving arts and music scenes, booming tech industry, and excellent restaurants.
Housing options range from period townhouses to modern apartments, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Families can benefit from a selection of top-rated primary and secondary schools and great weekend diversions like punting on the River Cherwell or exploring the Ashmolean Museum.
Proximity to the M40 and good rail connections ensure straightforward travel to London and beyond.
Oxford has long been a favourite with inner London escapees.
The property market here is incredibly diverse,, with homes selling for as little as £ 100,000 and as much as £15,000,000 for a Grade II-listed abbey.
7. Chichester
Chichester provides the perfect mix of modern living and historic charm.
Renowned for its stunning cathedral, Chichester seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary living.
This location is in high demand, and property prices are among the highest in this part of the UK.
Compact yet lively, the city centre features exclusive shops, art galleries, and theatre venues.
Families can take advantage of reputable schools like Bishop Luffa School and Chichester College.
Meanwhile, culture lovers will enjoy performances at the acclaimed Chichester Festival Theatre.
A short drive will take you to the gorgeous West Wittering Beach, popular with both sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts.
Plus, if you’re interested in weekend trips to London, direct train links cut down on travel time, giving you more time to soak up the coastal atmosphere.
House prices in Chichester have an overall average of £433,134 over the last year.
Chichester manages to tick so many boxes for would-be newcomers.
8. Reading
Reading is a top choice for commuters.
Thanks to its fast rail routes into London and excellent motorway connections, reading has long been considered a practical hub for businesses and commuters.
Beyond its reputation as a commercial centre, Reading offers a lively social scene, showcased by the annual Reading Festival and an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and shopping outlets, such as The Oracle.
The town caters well to families too, hosting top-performing schools like Reading School and Kendrick School.
Residents can visit the scenic Thames Path or explore the local green spaces at Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park for tranquil escapes. In short, Reading’s urban buzz complements its inviting suburban charm.
The good news is that Reading homes are among some of the cheapest in our “Best Places” list, with the average home selling for £407,000.
9. Southampton
Southampton is ideal for those seeking a modern, well connected city to call home.
Southampton combines maritime history with modern city life, making it a prime choice for those who love being near the water.
Known for its busy port and departure point for cruise liners, the city boasts a range of shopping facilities, including Westquay Shopping Centre, alongside a rich cultural heritage.
History buffs will enjoy learning about the Titanic connection at the SeaCity Museum, while nature enthusiasts can relax at Southampton Common’s expansive green space.
Educational institutions such as the University of Southampton contribute to a young, energetic atmosphere with plenty of popular clubs and pubs.
In addition, extensive road, rail, air, and ferry links make it simple to commute or embark on weekend adventures abroad.
Southampton not only has the most homes for sale on our list, but it is also ranked the cheapest place to buy a home at an average of £283,000!
10. Farnham
Farnham is a good location for buyers seeking a more peaceful place to live.
Farnham is a quaint market town in Surrey that attracts people who want a peaceful retreat without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Georgian architecture dominates the town centre, where you can browse unique shops, discover independent cafés, or catch a show at Farnham Maltings.
Good schools, such as Farnham Heath End School, serve the community, and the town’s location near the A31 and A3 gives easy access to surrounding areas and London.
Outdoors, the rolling hills of the Surrey countryside invite weekend walks, while Farnham Park’s extensive grounds offer a refreshing green oasis closer to home.
Though Farnham would suit almost anyone, it has become a firm favourite with retirees, with plenty of homes for sale aimed at the over-60s.
Living relatively close to the capital means that a home’s cost is high, at an average of £630,000.
11. Maidenhead
Maidenhead is a great spot for commuters seeking a rural haven to call home.
Situated along the River Thames, Maidenhead boasts swift rail services to London Paddington, which take as little as 15–20 minutes, making daily commuting a breeze.
A short stroll along the riverbank reveals green spaces, marinas, and picturesque footpaths perfect for family outings.
The area features well-regarded schools, including Newlands Girls’ School and Furze Platt Senior School.
Shopping enthusiasts can explore both High Street favourites and smaller independent businesses, while foodies will appreciate its array of restaurants.
Maidenhead’s prime location also means quick getaways to Windsor or the Chiltern Hills for an afternoon of exploration.
Although properties sell for an average of around £550,000, they are still much cheaper than in London.
12. Epsom
A move to Epsom ensures buyer have a wonderful suburban location.
Surrey is home to many very exclusive locations, including Epsom.
This town captures the essence of suburban living with a dash of historic charm.
Famous for its Epsom Downs Racecourse, the town also offers an array of leisure facilities, from modern gyms to picturesque parks.
Shoppers can browse Ashley Centre’s high-street brands, while smaller independent stores and local markets add character to the town.
Commuters benefit from excellent rail links into central London, typically taking under 40 minutes.
For families, there is a good choice of primary and secondary schools, and weekend activities often centre around the surrounding Surrey Hills—perfect for hikers, cyclists, and anyone looking to embrace the outdoors.
The housing market in this region is competitive, and the majority of properties sold in Epsom during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £606,825
13. Hastings
Those seeking a coastal location should consider a move to Hasting.
Hastings has experienced a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a traditional seaside resort into a creative community that welcomes young professionals and families in equal measure.
The Old Town’s half-timbered houses, quirky shops, and vintage markets set a relaxed tone, while the seafront’s trendy bars and cafés serve as popular social hubs.
Educational options include several good schools like Ark Alexandra Academy.
To learn more about local fishing heritage, visit the Hastings Fishermen’s Museum.
Thanks to the annual Hastings Festival and an ever-growing roster of galleries, arts and culture flourish.
With a mixture of sandy and pebbled beaches plus direct rail connections to London, Hastings is becoming an increasingly appealing place to settle.
The great news about Hastings is that the local housing market is particularly well-priced.
If you are willing to make some improvements, you can pick up a one-bedroom flat for an astonishing £45,000!
14. Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks is a top pick for commuters.
Sevenoaks, Kent, offers a blend of quaint market-town charm and excellent transport options, making it a desirable destination for people from all walks of life.
With its scenic countryside views and proximity to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Sevenoaks provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and a peaceful lifestyle without compromising on access to urban amenities.
The town boasts some excellent educational institutions, including the renowned Sevenoaks School, which is known for its strong academic tradition and extracurricular opportunities.
Sevenoaks benefits from efficient transport links, particularly via Sevenoaks railway station, which delivers fast services to London Bridge and Charing Cross (35 mins).
This makes it an attractive location for commuters who want to enjoy a more relaxed environment while maintaining city access.
The town centre is home to a variety of independent boutiques, lively cafes, and farmers’ markets, fostering a close-knit community spirit.
This convenience attracts a mix of families and professionals, driving property demand and, consequently, prices.
As of 2025, the average house price in Sevenoaks is higher than the broader South East average, often surpassing £832,000.
15. St Albans
St Albans is a town packed with charm.
St Albans, located in Hertfordshire just north of London, is another highly sought-after area in South East England.
This historic city is steeped in ancient Roman history and features landmarks like St Albans Cathedral, which add to its unique charm.
Residents enjoy a vibrant mix of modern amenities and traditional English culture, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and heritage trails to explore.
The city is famed for its excellent schools, such as St Albans School, which enhance its appeal to families seeking top-tier education.
St Albans benefits from convenient transport options, including a well-connected rail station that provides quick access to central London, making it ideal for commuters.
The community is active, with regular markets, festivals, and open-air events promoting a welcoming atmosphere.
Abundant green spaces, like Verulamium Park, provide scenic spots for relaxation and recreation.
Whether it’s the rich history, strong community ties, or excellent connectivity, St Albans stands out as a fantastic place to live in the South East.
Most properties sold in St. Albans during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £593,448.
Does Moving to the South East Sound Appealing?
Deciding where to live in the South East of England is a hugely personal choice, but each of these thirteen towns and cities offers something unique, be it stunning coastal views, scenic countryside, or a bustling urban scene.
From the academic buzz of Oxford to the creative energy and waterside location of Hastings, there’s no shortage of standout locations ready to welcome you with their own special charm.
By weighing up factors such as schools, transport links, local amenities, and cultural life, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect spot that feels like home somewhere in the South East.
Good luck with your search, and here’s to a bright new chapter in one of England’s most diverse and exciting regions!
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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.
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