The Top 10 Cheapest Areas to Live in London

Living in London can be expensive, but there are still pockets of affordability within the city's boundaries. Here are the top 10 cheapest areas to live in London, considering factors such as property prices, rent, transport links, amenities, and overall living costs.

Below are some of the cheapest areas to live in London:

1. Barking

Affordability: Barking is one of the most affordable areas in London, with lower-than-average property prices and rent.

Transport Links: Served by the District Line, Hammersmith & City Line, and Overground, Barking offers good connectivity to central London.

Amenities: Barking has a growing town centre with shops, markets, and eateries. It also has parks like Barking Park for green spaces.

Living Costs: Overall living costs, including groceries and entertainment, are relatively low in Barking compared to central London.

2. Dagenham

Affordability: Dagenham offers some of the cheapest housing options in London, with affordable rent and property prices.

Transport Links: The District Line serves Dagenham, providing straightforward access to central London.

Amenities: The area has essential amenities, including shops, supermarkets, and schools. There are also several parks and recreational areas.

Living Costs: Dagenham is known for its lower living costs, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents.

3. Croydon

Affordability: Croydon provides a variety of affordable housing options, from flats to family homes.

Transport Links: Croydon has excellent transport links, including multiple train stations with services to central London and the Tram Link system.

Amenities: Croydon boasts a large shopping district, numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It also has green spaces like Lloyd Park.

Living Costs: The cost of living in Croydon is reasonable, with competitive prices for food, entertainment, and services.

4. Hounslow

Affordability: Hounslow offers affordable housing options, making it one of the cheaper areas in the western part of London.

Transport Links: Served by the Piccadilly Line and South Western Railway, Hounslow has good transport links to central London and Heathrow Airport.

Amenities: Hounslow has a variety of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. It also has parks such as Hounslow Heath.

Living Costs: Overall, Hounslow has a relatively low cost of living compared to central London.

5. Newham

Affordability: Newham, which includes areas like East Ham and Plaistow, offers affordable property prices and rent.

Transport Links: The area is well-connected with several Underground lines (District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee) and the DLR.

Amenities: Newham has diverse shopping areas, markets, and eateries. There are also several parks and recreational facilities.

Living Costs: Living costs in Newham are lower than in many other parts of London, making it a budget-friendly option.

6. Bexley

Affordability: Bexley is one of the more affordable boroughs in London, offering competitive property prices and rent.

Transport Links: Bexley has good transport links with South Eastern trains providing services to central London.

Amenities: The borough offers a range of amenities, including shopping centres, restaurants, and parks like Danson Park.

Living Costs: The cost of living in Bexley is relatively low, with affordable prices for food, services, and entertainment.

7. Sutton

Affordability: Sutton provides affordable housing options, particularly appealing for families and first-time buyers.

Transport Links: Sutton has excellent transport links, with multiple train stations offering services to central London and surrounding areas.

Amenities: Sutton has a vibrant town centre with shops, cafes, and entertainment venues. It also has several parks and green spaces.

Living Costs: Overall living costs in Sutton are reasonable, making it a cost-effective place to live in London.

8. Redbridge

Affordability: Redbridge offers affordable housing, especially in areas like Ilford and Gants Hill.

Transport Links: The Central Line and several bus routes provide good connectivity to central London.

Amenities: Redbridge has diverse amenities, including shopping centres, restaurants, and parks such as Valentines Park.

Living Costs: Living costs in Redbridge are lower compared to many other London boroughs, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.

9. Enfield

Affordability: Enfield is one of the more affordable areas in London, offering a range of property options.

Transport Links: Enfield is well-served by multiple train lines, providing access to central London and other parts of the city.

Amenities: The area has a variety of shops, eateries, and leisure facilities. Enfield also boasts several parks and green spaces.

Living Costs: The cost of living in Enfield is relatively low, with affordable prices for housing, groceries, and entertainment.

10. Havering

Affordability: Havering, which includes areas like Romford and Hornchurch, offers affordable housing options.

Transport Links: The area is well-connected with train services to central London and the upcoming Crossrail (Elizabeth Line) enhancing its connectivity further.

Amenities: Havering has a good selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. There are also several parks and recreational areas.

Living Costs: Havering has a relatively low cost of living, making it one of the cheaper areas to reside in London.

Conclusion

While London is known for its high cost of living, areas like Barking, Dagenham, Croydon, Hounslow, Newham, Bexley, Sutton, Redbridge, Enfield, and Havering offer more affordable options. These neighbourhoods provide a variety of housing choices, good transport links, essential amenities, and lower living costs, making them attractive for those looking to live in London on a budget. Explore these areas to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and financial needs.

4o