Discover the Top 10 Places to Live in London

Capital of the United Kingdom, London is the cornerstone of culture, commerce, and global influence. Home to over 9 million people with 32 boroughs and provides everything from royal parks and iconic landmarks to thriving local markets and international cuisine.

Each part of the city has its own history, rhythm of daily life, and story to tell. Which leaves the question: “Which London borough is the best place to live?”

Whether you’re relocating for work, raising a family, or in search of a creative and financial hub, choosing the right borough in London can be a difficult decision, full of possibility.

In this article, we take you through the ten most popular boroughs to live, pairing local insight with up-to-date data, to help you discover the best place to live in Greater London. Let’s jump in.

Why London is a Great Place to Live

With its rich history, diverse communities, and world-class amenities, it’s no surprise London is regarded by many as a great place to live. Home to some of the highest ranked universities and thriving job opportunities, to its unparalleled mix of arts, food, and green space – there really is something for everyone.

For families in particular, there’s no shortage of parks, top-rated schools, and spacious homes in boroughs that balance city living with a sense of local calm. And while the idea of living in “The Big City” might at first raise an eyebrow, many outer boroughs offer that rare combination: access to inner-city opportunities with the open space, greenery, and slower pace that can be found in more suburban areas.

In truth, if you’ve already started your research on the best places to live in London with a family, you’re likely to find several spots on our list that tick all the boxes.

And for professionals or creative minds looking to immerse themselves in culture, London’s inner zones continue to impress. Whether you’re after a modern flat, a Victorian terrace, or something with a little more edge, there’s likely a postcode that matches all of your needs.

At Boon Brokers, our dedicated mortgage advisers understand just how competitive London’s property market can be. As an independent, fee-free mortgage broker, we specialise in helping clients find the right London mortgage for their needs. Whether you’re buying in the heart of the city or a quieter outer borough – our team can help guide you every step of the way.

Let’s jump into the top 10 places to live in London, starting with one of its most iconic and culturally rich boroughs: Camden.

1. Camden

Famed for its music and markets, Camden is one of London’s most distinctive boroughs. Drawn to its eclectic charm – where vintage shops, live music venues, and leafy canal walks meet a thriving food scene – Camden is home to both families and professionals alike.

Notably, Camden Market is the area’s cultural heartbeat, And yes, if you’re wondering “Is Camden Market open on Sunday”, it absolutely is. In fact, Sundays in Camden are the most vibrant days to visit. From sizzling Korean pancakes to vegan bao buns, some of the best food in Camden Market is found tucked between its pop-up stalls and riverside corners.

Driven by strong demand from professionals and creatives seeking centrality with cultural flair, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) report that the average house price in Camden is now £781,000. Meanwhile, monthly rent for houses in Camden stands at £2,822, reflecting its popularity and walkable links to King’s Cross Station.

2. Islington

Those exploring houses in Islington will find a varied housing stock, from period townhouses to contemporary developments, blending historic charm with modern flair. Due to its cultural depth and unbeatable connections, it’s a borough that attracts both those looking for creative adventures, families, and commuters alike.

As for things to do in Angel Islington, the list is both long and eclectic. From canal-side strolls, vintage treasure hunts in Camden Passage, live jazz venues, and popular cafés and cocktail bars.

The average house price has slightly climbed in recent years to £675,000, which places Islington as a slightly more affordable neighborhood than surrounding boroughs – without compromising on lifestyle. The ONS reports monthly rents to average at £2,700, reflecting the popularity for top-rated schools, excellent transport links, and a strong sense of community

3. Greenwich

Tucked along the Thames in southeast London, Greenwich is the perfect cocktail of royal landmarks and everyday charm. With leafy parks, riverside pubs, and that unmistakable maritime history, it’s a place where the past and present feel both uniquely and comfortably connected.

Following the ONS, the price of an average house in Greenwich sits at £474,000, making it one of the most affordable boroughs featured on this list. Rents hover around £1,870 a month, which can be especially beneficial to those who seek the thrill of London living with a bit more breathing room than many parts of central London.

There’s plenty to explore in Greenwich, especially in and around North Greenwich. Whether it’s heading up The O2 to catch a show, or hopping on the Emirates Air Line for a sky-high view, there’s never a moment to ask for things to do in North Greenwich.

Questions about cuisines? The choice of food places in Greenwich ranges from old-school fishmongers to pop-up street food and indie bakeries – whatever your fancy, Greenwich will be able to provide.

4. Brixton

Set in stone as a musical legacy, Brixton stands as one of London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.

Brixton has long been known for its musical roots and cultural energy – an area where creativity and community combines to achieve greatness. From the bustle of Electric Avenue to the independent traders of Brixton Village, it’s a neighbourhood that wears its identity proudly.

For those who are seeking the hustle and bustle of an active lifestyle – there’s no shortage of things to do in Brixton. From catching a gig at the O2 Academy, browsing local art at pop-up exhibitions, or sampling global flavours at Brixton’s many restaurants and rooftop bars, there is never a boring moment living in Brixton.

Currently, according to Rightmove (2025), Brixton’s property market reflects its popularity among young professionals and creatives alike with the average house price in Brixton is £593,000. If you’re searching for a property to rent, the average monthly rent currently stands at £2,150.

5. Shoreditch

While once a gritty industrial pocket, Shoreditch has evolved into East London’s creative core – known for its street art, nightlife, and start-up energy.

Home to some of the best street art culture, Shoreditch is a neighbourhood where converted warehouses now sit alongside pop-up galleries, and where the line between work and play is often blurred.

There’s always something happening in Shoreditch. Whether it’s pop-up markets, late-night gigs, or outdoor cinemas, the area thrives on constant reinvention. If you’re in search of things to do in Shoreditch, start with its creative street art, pop-up galleries, and booming food scene. And for a weekend wander, head to a market in Shoreditch – you might just come across second-hand vinyl, handmade jewellery, or the next big art exhibition.

Average house prices in Shoreditch sit at around £590,000, with monthly rents at £2,300, according to the ONS. It’s a snapshot of Hackney’s ongoing development and Shoreditch’s creative  appeal.

6. Notting Hill

While the name may ring bells thanks to the star-studded film, Notting Hill is actually best known for its pastel façades, Portobello Road Market, and the world-renowned carnival. In short, this West London borough is one of the most highly sought out for its perfect blend of elegance with edge.

Whether you’re browsing for vinyl in a market, brunching on Westbourne Grove, or catching a film at the Electric Cinema, there’s always something happening in Notting Hill. Notably, the carnival in Notting Hill headlines each summer, but all year round you will find quiet garden squares, antique stalls, independent cinemas, bookshops, and galleries at your convenience.

According to Rightmove (2025), the average house price in Notting Hill is £1,774,105, with monthly rents typically ranging between £3,500 and £4,000. It remains one of the most expensive areas in the capital – reflecting an increased demand for its picture-postcard charm and cultural status.

7. Kensington and Chelsea

The famous location of Kensington Palace and long associated with grandeur and diplomacy, Kensington and Chelsea is a borough where embassies, museums, and garden squares sit side by side.

From the sophisticated stucco-fronted terraces of South Kensington to the boutiques of King’s Road, Kensington and Chelsea boast a postcode that uniquely blends heritage with high fashion. Whether you’re catching a play at the Royal Court Theatre, wandering through the Saatchi Gallery, or taking a stroll along the Thames, there’re plenty of things to do in Chelsea.

According to the ONS (May 2025), the average price of a house in Chelsea is £1,174,000, with monthly rents averaging £3,663. This price is among the highest in the capital but accurately reflects the demand of living in prestige and privacy with easy access to central London.

8. Tower Hamlets

Situated on the north bank of the River Thames, Tower Hamlets stands as a borough of contrasts, where Canary Wharf’s glass towers rise just streets away from historic terraces, grassroots markets, and riverside parks.

Perfect for both professionals and family, the Tower Hamlets is a place that combines modern finance with a sense of deep-rooted community, where cultures from around the world shape everyday life.

From Brick Lane’s curry houses to Columbia Road’s flower market, Tower Hamlets is full of local flavour. And for a weekend wander, a Tower Hamlets market is the place to be – these pop-up spots capture the borough’s character with a mix of street food, handmade crafts, and vintage finds.

According to the ONS (May 2025), the average house price in Tower Hamlets is £490,000, with monthly rents around £2,100. The Tower Hamlets borough is positioned as a relatively affordable, mid-range option, for those looking to stay close to the City without central London prices.

9. Croydon

Thanks to a host of development and regeneration projects, Croydon is now firmly on the up and coming list of the best places to live in London. These initiatives are set to improve transport, provide more leisure centres, and a growing overall creative scene. From new-build flats to period semis, those looking to explore houses in Croydon are certain to be surprised to find some of the best value in the capital.

From Boxpark’s street food and live events to local art hubs and galleries, there’s no shortage of things to do in Croydon. The borough’s cultural revival is visible in its creative spaces, independent venues, and growing events calendar. Equipped with fast trains reaching London Bridge in just 15 minutes, Croydon continues to offer a rare mix of space, value, and connectivity.

According to ONS (2025), the average house price in Croydon is £397,000, with monthly rents averaging £1,516 – making Croydon the standout borough in terms of affordability. As such, this borough might be the perfect place to live for new families, commuters, or professional’s looking for early career moves.

10. Clapham

Clapham blends sociable living with family appeal. At the heart of it all is Clapham Common: a 220-acre green space lined with cafés, sports clubs, and weekend yoga sessions that draw locals year-round.

The list of things to do in Clapham is ever-changing. From comedy nights and rooftop brunches to Venn Street Market and late-night cocktails in Clapham Old Town, it’s a neighbourhood that balances laid-back charm with lively energy.

According to Rightmove (2025), the average house price in Clapham is £840,093, with monthly rents typically ranging between £2,300 and £2,500. It’s a reflection of the area’s popularity among young professionals looking for space, lifestyle perks, and quick Zone 2 station connections.

Average House Prices in London

London’s housing market is anything but uniform, in fact, London’s housing market shifts dramatically from one postcode to the next. Whether you’re after period charm or modern convenience, what you’ll pay for a property in London will wholly depend on where you choose to settle.

Latest research shows the average house price across London comes in at £566,600, a rise of 2.6% in just one month, and up 3.3% year-on-year. But in truth, this figure only tells part of the story.

In the City of London, average property prices sit around £893,416, with most transactions involving flats priced near £871,227. Terraced homes, though fewer and farther between, can reach the hefty costs of  £1.77 million.

To illustrate this point, those looking to secure a house in Camden can expect to pay an average of £781,000. In comparison to a borough like Greenwhich, where the average house price is closer to £470,000, there is nearly £310,000 difference to consider. This example is just a snapshot of just how dramatically price tags can swing across borough lines.

With such variation in price from one area to the next, having the right mortgage advice is more important than ever. As a leading mortgage broker in London, Boon Brokers has the in-depth knowledge of London’s property landscape to help you navigate complex local markets with confidence.

Whether you’re looking to buy in a prime central postcode or an up-and-coming area on the edge of the city, we offer tailored, fee-free mortgage advice to suit your budget and long-term goals.

Living in London and Finding a Mortgage

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, long-time Londoner, or incoming student, the great UK capital offers something for everyone.

fast-paced energy, green escapes, and a lifestyle that shifts from borough to borough. But while finding the right home is a major milestone, securing the right mortgage is just as important.

In truth – living in London isn’t cheap, and with average house prices continuing to rise, getting the best mortgage deal can make a real difference.

At Boon Brokers, our expert mortgage advisers understand the London market inside out. As a Whole of Market, fee-free mortgage broker, we compare deals across a panel of lenders in order to help you find the right mortgage for you.

Contact Boon Brokers today and arrange your free consultation to take the first step towards your perfect London property.