London, with a population of 9 million, is the largest city in the United Kingdom.
It dwarfs its close contenders of Birmingham and Manchester, which have a combined population of 5.34 million.
London’s population continues to grow at a rate of 1.22% every year. Its vast population shows no sign of slowing despite how pricey it is.
If you are one of those 1.22% looking to move to the big smoke, then you’re in the right place.
This blog post will help you do London on a budget, detailing the best cheap places in London.
Contents
- 0.1 How expensive is London?
- 0.2 Why is London so expensive?
- 0.3 1. Bexley
- 0.4 2. Croydon
- 0.5 3. Hillingdon
- 0.6 4. Sutton
- 0.7 5. Barking and Dagenham
- 0.8 6. Camden
- 0.9 7. Newham
- 0.10 8. Lewisham
- 0.11 9. Bromley
- 0.12 10. Woolwich
- 0.13 11. Acton
- 0.14 12. Hounslow
- 0.15 13. Havering
- 0.16 14. Waltham Forest
- 0.17 15. Redbridge
- 1 Top 10 Attractions Located in the Cheapest Areas in London
How expensive is London?
In two words – extremely expensive. London is the most expensive city in the UK, with the cost of living being higher than in 95% of cities worldwide.
The housing crisis has made finding affordable places in London more difficult. Let’s take a look at the statistics.
It is estimated that a single person living in London requires a monthly income of £3,311.
There is a significant disparity between this figure and the average monthly salary of £2,573.
This disparity is even more apparent when compared to the average house price of £711,000, meaning it would take the average earner in London 276 years to pay for their homes outright.
Why is London so expensive?
The most expensive areas in London are costly. Several factors contribute to these extreme living costs:
- It is the financial capital of the world:
- Greenwich Mean Time gives London an edge over other capital cities worldwide. London’s market is open from when the Asian markets close until the start of trade on the North American Markets, crossing with 27 other markets globally.
- People are willing to pay the price:
- Shops would immediately lower their prices if everyone refused to spend so much money and shopped elsewhere. The issue is that most people living in London do not have the time or resources to travel out of the city to find cheaper products, so they end up paying more than they have to.
- Housing density:
- Most people moving to London want to live centrally, in zone 1 or 2, one of the London Fare Zones. However, unlike most capital cities where skyscrapers are prevalent, much of the architecture in central London is spread across two or three floors. People continue to move into zone 1 and 2, despite this lack of housing density, driving overcrowding, and absurd property pricing.
It is not all doom and gloom, though, as it is possible to find cheap places in London.
You just have to know where to look. This blog post will ignore the most expensive areas in London, and instead, highlight the most affordable places to live.
- Check out our guide to Safest Places and Most Dangerous Areas in London before you visit London.
- Before you consider moving to London, Check out our guide to Best Places to Live in London.
- If you are going to Buy A House In London, check out our detailed guide to Best Places To Buy A House In London.
- You might want to take a look at the best places to live outside London. Check out our guide to the 10 best Commuter Towns to London.
- Living in London is not cheap, here is a list of the 15 Most Expensive Areas In London, which we call the richest part of London.
- Here is the guide to the Most Dangerous Cities and Safest Cities in the UK.
- Want to move to the UK, but have no idea what places to choose? Check out our guide to Best Place to Live in the UK.
| Area | Population | Population Density | Total Area | Average Property Price | Average Rental Price | Median Household Income |
| Bexley | 248,287 | 11,000/sq mi | 23.38 square miles | £555,549 | £1,200 | £25,000 |
| Croydon | 379,000 | 2.7 residents per square km | 33.6 square miles | £463,000 | £1,250 | £41,700 |
| Hillingdon | 308,870 | 6,900/sq mi | 44,76 square miles | £496,225 | £921 | £51,600 |
| Sutton | 206,349 | 12,000/sq mi | 16.93 square miles | £499,296 | £1,175 | £29,279 |
| Barking and Dagenham
|
212,906 | 15,000/sq mi | 13.93 square miles | £300,517 | £1,200 | £29,420 |
| Camden | 270,029 | 32,000/sq mi | 8.4 square miles | £737,000 | £2,000 | £33,300 |
| Newham | 353,134 | 25,000/sq mi | 13.98 square miles | £409,587 | £1,600 | £28,780 |
| Lewisham | 60,573 | 23,000/sq mi | 13.57 square miles | £560,961 | £1,350 | £31,000 |
| Bromley | 332,336 | 5,700/sq mi | 59 square miles | £568,793 | £1,300 | £38,900 |
| Woolwich | 84,959 | £449,663 | £1,852 | £35,084 | ||
| Acton | 62,480 | 17,590/sq mi | 3.55 square miles | £876,894 | £2,000 | £30,000 |
| Hounslow | 271,523 | 13,000/sq mi | 21.61 square miles | £451,124 | £1,300 | £38,800 |
| Havering | 259,552 | 6,000/sq mi | 43.35 square miles | £462,752 | £1,400 | £33,317 |
| Waltham Forest | 279,983 | 18,000/sq mi | 14.99 square miles | £546,267 | £1,350 | £35,000 |
| Redbridge | 305,222 | 14,000/sq mi | 21.78 square miles | £563,174 | £1,275 | £37,700 |
1. Bexley
- Population: 248,287
- Population Density: 11,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 23.38 square miles
- Average Property Price: £555,549
- Average Rental Price: £1,200
- Median Household Income: £25,000
Bexley is a Borough in south-east London, situated 16.5 miles from the infamous Oxford Circus, which is located in central London.
It is a cheap place in London because it is situated in zone 6. As mentioned previously, there is a desire amongst Londoners to live in zone 1 or 2, so this zone 6 location deters people from Bexley.
As a result, this lack of demand drives prices down. It also lacks some of the hustle and bustle that people moving to London desire, having more of a ‘village-like’ feel.
Bexley was once a part of Kent, with many of those living in Bexley today still classifying it as part of Kent.
This, and the fact that Bexley was ranked the 2nd safest London Borough, contributes to the quaint atmosphere.
With more than 100 parks, Bexley is one of the greenest cheap places in London. Danson Park, which has a 200-year old oak tree, is arguably the most well-known.
The park also has a number of great activities to keep your children occupied, including sailing, paddle sports, and powerboating!
The village-like atmosphere, combined with the low crime rates and vast open spaces, makes the area best suited to the older generations or families with young children.
2. Croydon
- Population: 379,000
- Population Density: 2.7 residents per square km
- Total Area: 33.6 square miles
- Average Property Price: £463,000
- Average Rental Price: £1,250
- Median Household Income: £41,700
Croydon is another Borough located in South London, around 13 miles from Oxford Circus.
This journey would take approximately 34 minutes on public transport. It is one of the cheapest places in London for similar reasons to Bexley.
It is not located on a Tube line, meaning it does not have a Tube station which drives house prices down.
To get into Central London, you would have to catch the train. Although the area lacks Tube stations, it makes up for in fast and reliable trains and buses.
You can get to London Bridge in 15 minutes or Victoria in 20 minutes on the City Thameslink Service.
Croydon’s tram network makes it unique from other areas in London.
Croydon has a buzzing nightlife, including a number of independent nightclubs, bars and restaurants.
It also has its own Arts Quarter – perfect for creatives. The fantastic transport links and buzzing nightlife make Croydon well-suited to young professionals who want the London life on a budget.
3. Hillingdon
- Population: 308,870
- Population Density: 6,900/sq mi
- Total Area: 44,76 square miles
- Average Property Price: £496,225
- Average Rental Price: £921
- Median Household Income: £51,600
Hillingdon is the second-largest borough in London. It is located around 15.9 miles from Oxford Circus, with this journey taking 54 minutes by public transport.
Similarly to both Bexley and Croydon, Hillingdon is one of the cheapest places in London because it is located in the outer west region of the city.
Heathrow Airport is located in Hillingdon – making it an ideal place for those who frequently travel abroad to live.
The European offices of a number of large corporations are also situated in Hillingdon.
Hillingdon is much quieter than central London, with a much lower crime rate, making it best suited to the older generations.
There are several attractions great for retirees, including:
- Little Britain Lakewhich is a lovely place to walk at any time of the year.
- Court Parkwhich is a nice, safe park with an outdoor gym, tennis courts and lawn bowls.
4. Sutton
- Population: 206,349
- Population Density: 12,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 16.93 square miles
- Average Property Price: £499,296
- Average Rental Price: £1,175
- Median Household Income: £29,279
Sutton is a borough located in the south of Greater London. It takes 51 minutes to get from Sutton to Oxford Circus, a distance of 13.4 miles.
The borough is famous for its village-like feel, created by its smaller districts.
It is one of the cheapest places in London because it is far from zone 1.
Moreover, it is also an inexpensive area because of its village, family-like feel which deters young professionals who want to experience the buzz of central London.
Sutton is attractive to young families because it ensures a high level of education for children, with most schools being ranked as “good” by Ofsted.
Some of the best schools include:
There are also two private schools available in the area.
Its abundance of expansive green spaces make it a great place for days out with the family.
Some of these green spaces are as follows:
Lastly, a number of famous food chains suitable for the whole family are situated in Sutton, including Zizzi’s, Prezzo’s and Wildwood.
The combination of great schools, vast green space, and child-friendly eateries makes Sutton ideal for families with young children.
5. Barking and Dagenham
- Population: 212,906
- Population Density: 15,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 13.93 square miles
- Average Property Price: £300,517
- Average Rental Price: £1,200
- Median Household Income: £29,420
Barking and Dagenham is a cheap place in London to buy a house – in fact the house prices in this borough are the lowest in Greater London.
These low house prices can, in part, be explained by the low median household income.
Barking and Dagenham, being one of the most affordable places in London, can also be explained by its high crime rates which drive down house prices.
Last year, the average crime rate per 1,000 people was 87, making it amongst the top 20 most dangerous London boroughs.
This might discourage those with young families and more vulnerable groups from moving to Barking and Dagenham.
However, Barking and Dagenham has got a lot of potential. Its economy and population are growing, with over £1 billion being invested in the borough in recent years.
The up-and-coming atmosphere of the borough, combined with the quick commute to central London of just 45 minutes, draws young professionals who are eager to work in zone 1 or 2 but cannot justify the rental prices.
6. Camden
- Population: 270,029
- Population Density: 32,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 8.4 square miles
- Average Property Price: £737,000
- Average Rental Price: £2,000
- Median Household Income: £33,300
Camden is ideal for those who wish to live more centrally on a budget. It is located in zone 2, just 2.6 miles from Oxford Circus.
Camden is one of the most expensive areas in London when compared with the other boroughs we have discussed so far. The reason for this is because it is located in zone 2.
Whilst the price point will dissuade many, it has a buzzing nightlife and arty vibe, which can be attributed to its markets, live music, and theatre. This makes Camden a perfect place for creatives!
7. Newham
- Population: 353,134
- Population Density: 25,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 13.98 square miles
- Average Property Price: £409,587
- Average Rental Price: £1,600
- Median Household Income: £28,780
Newham is located in the eastern region of Greater London. It would take around 40 minutes to travel the 9.5 mile journey to Oxford Circus by public transport.
Newham is one of the cheapest places in London because it is situated in zone 3.
The Hammersmith & City Line, District Line, and Jubilee Line, as well as the DLR, are all operational in Newham, providing commuters with a hassle-free ride to the city, Canary Wharf, and other locations.
You can reach Canary Wharf from West Ham in only 5 minutes. These city connections make Newham ideal for young professionals working in London.
You can find one of the top dining scenes in London in Newham with international cuisines such as Indian, Bangladeshi, and Caribbean.
It also has an exciting nightlife, increasing its suitability for young professionals.
8. Lewisham
- Population: 60,573
- Population Density: 23,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 13.57 square miles
- Average Property Price: £560,961
- Average Rental Price: £1,350
- Average Income: £31,000
Lewisham is a borough located in south London. It is approximately 7.9 miles from Oxford Circus, with the commute taking 56 minutes.
Due to slower gentrification than in neighbouring south-east hotspots such as Peckham and Greenwich, Lewisham has become one of London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods in recent years.
It is especially suited to first-time buyers seeking a little more for their money.
Moreover, Lewisham is great for young professionals since it is located in zone 2, meaning it has great transport links.
Not only is it suitable for young professionals but for families with young children as well with its fantastic schools and beautiful parks.
Plus, it is also home to a culturally-diverse range of restaurants, with the Model Market being a must-visit. This brings together bars, music, and food for a night of fun and laughter.
9. Bromley
- Population: 332,336
- Population Density: 5,700/sq mi
- Total Area: 59 square miles
- Average Property Price: £568,793
- Average Rental Price: £1,300
- Median Income: £38,900
Bromley is a borough located in the south of Greater London. It is 11.9 miles from Oxford Circus, with the commute taking around 40 minutes by public transport.
Although the average house price seems slightly higher in Bromley, it is still modest compared to the average house price of £711,000 in London.
Bromley is one of the best places to buy a house in London and among the inexpensive places to live, which can be explained by the fact that Bromley does not have a Tube station, making transport to Central London a little more difficult.
The lack of Tube stations makes the area better suited to the older generations who may not have as much of a desire to experience the hustle and bustle of the inner city.
Bromley is also amongst one of the top 10 safest boroughs in London, with a crime rate of 67 per 1000 people.
The elderly may enjoy the day trips on offer from Bromley, including:
- A day trip to the historic Hever Castle & Gardens
- A day trip to Chartwell House
10. Woolwich
- Population: 84,959
- Average Property Price: £449,663
- Average Rental Price: £1,852
- Median Household Income: £35,084
Woolwich is located in the east of Greater London. It is 11.1 miles from Oxford Circus, with the commute taking approximately 40 minutes by public transport.
Similar to the other areas mentioned above, it is an affordable place to live since it does not have a London Underground Tube station.
As one might anticipate from a community where the majority of people are in their early to mid-30s, Woolwich is a prosperous commuter town.
A short trip across the river will take you to London City Airport, which offers quick and convenient transportation between Central London, the UK, and many significant European cities.
The town has some excellent transportation links connecting it to inner City London and major national train services.
There are also various delicious restaurants in the area, including Dial Arch, The Guardhouse and China City, making Woolwich a foodie’s paradise.
This, combined with bars such as Galyons Bar & Kitchen and the Rooftop Lounge, make Woolwich appealing to young professionals.
11. Acton
- Population: 62,480
- Population Density: 17,590/sq mi
- Total Area: 3.55 square miles
- Average Property Price: £876,894
- Average Rental Price: £2,000
- Median Household Income: £30,000
Acton is located in west London, approximately 7 miles from Oxford Circus. This commute would take 35 minutes by public transport.
It is considered a cheap place to live in because it is situated on the boundary of zone 2 and zone 3.
The wealthy, older generations move to the multicultural residential hub of Acton from the most expensive areas in London in quest of larger, more affordable houses and close proximity to green spaces like Gunnersbury Park and Ealing Common.
Additionally, Acton is a commuter’s paradise with no less than seven railway stations, convenient access to the M4 corridor, and more.
Acton has a rich history, being one of the few places in London with evidence of Stone Age Worship. It boasts a Bronze Age cemetery which history lovers will enjoy.
12. Hounslow
- Population: 271,523
- Population Density: 13,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 21.61 square miles
- Average Property Price: £451,124
- Average Rental Price: £1,300
- Median Average Income: £38,800
Hounslow is a borough located in the west of Greater London. It is approximately 13 miles from Oxford Circus, with this commute taking around an hour by public transport.
The far distance from the centre of the city makes Hounslow an affordable place to live.
Some people describe Hounslow as the worst area to live in London on account of its cheap housing and distance from the city centre.
However, Hounslow’s recently renovated high street, first-rate transportation options, and lovely parks have contributed to its rising popularity among homebuyers.
It is ideal for young families with places to enjoy great days out for the kids such as Hounslow Urban Farm.
13. Havering
- Population: 259,552
- Population Density: 6,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 43.35 square miles
- Average Property Price: £462,752
- Average Rental Price: £1,400
- Median Average Income: £33,317
Havering is located in east London. It is approximately 18 miles from Oxford Circus, with the commute taking 40 minutes by public transport.
It is one of the most affordable boroughs in London as of 2022 with an average property price of £462,752.
Given that Havering has a lower population density than the majority of London’s boroughs, it benefits from having a lot of wide-open green space.
You can spend time outdoors with nature in several places, including Raphael Park, Hornchurch Country Park, and Eastbrookend Country Park.
For recreational activities, check out Stubbers Adventure Centre and Top Meadow Golf Club. This may appeal to the older generations who enjoy walks in the peaceful countryside.
Romford is the central town in Havering, which boasts a number of shops, bars and nightclubs.
This combined with the reasonable commute into central London, also makes Havering suitable for young commuters.
14. Waltham Forest
- Population: 279,983
- Population Density: 18,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 14.99 square miles
- Average Property Price: £546,267
- Average Rental Price: £1,350
- Median Household Income: £35,000
Waltham Forest is a borough located in the north east of the city. It is approximately 12.5 miles from Oxford Circus, with this commute taking 30 minutes by public transport.
The fact that Waltham Forest is one of the cheap places in London is surprising considering that it is serviced by the Victoria line.
The area boasts many activities, including mountain biking in the forest, gyms and leisure centres, and horse riding.
Due to this, the borough is home to active people who enjoy the great outdoors and walking or cycling.
The vast choice of activities, cafes, ease of transport, and good schools make Waltham Forest ideal for families with older children.
Special mention should go to Henry Maynard Primary which gets outstanding remarks by Ofsted.
It is also multi-cultural, with Halal butchers, Oriental supermarkets, and Afro-Caribbean and Turkish restaurants.
15. Redbridge
- Population: 305,222
- Population Density: 14,000/sq mi
- Total Area: 21.78 square miles
- Average Property Price: £563,174
- Average Rental Price: £1,275
- Median Household Income: £37,700
Redbridge is a borough located in the north east of London. It is approximately 14.5 miles from Oxford Circus, with this commute taking 40 minutes by public transport.
It is a culturally diverse borough, with 40% of its population hailing from an ethnic minority background; the most prevalent origin nations are India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Deprivation levels are lower than the London average, and crime levels are 10% lower than the London rate of 87 per 1,000 residents.
These factors all make Redbridge an extremely safe place to raise your children.
Redbridge also has:
- Great transport links including the Elizabeth Line, London Underground, and Bus.
- Good state-funded primary schools, secondary schools, and several independent schools
- Several Independent local shops
- Vast green spaces such as Fairlop Waters Country Parkand Hainault Forest Country Park
All the factors mentioned make Redbridge one the best cheap places in London for families.
Top 10 Attractions Located in the Cheapest Areas in London
Now that you know a little about the best cheap places in London, you might want more detail about these locations’ key attractions.
I will detail 10 of the top attractions located in the cheap places in London below.
Camden Market
在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子
Address: Camden High Street, Camden NW1 8AL
Danson House and Park
Address: Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HL
Havering Museum
Address: 19-21 High Street, Romford, RM1 1JU
Contact: 01708 766571
Crofton Roman Villa
Address: Crofton Road, Orpington
Contact: 01689 873038
Horniman Museum
Address: 98E London Road, SE23 3PE
Contact: 020 8699 1872
Emirates Airline Cable Car
Address: Unit 1, Emirates Cable Car Terminal, Edmund Halley Way, London, SE10 1FR
Brockley Market
Address: Lewisham Way, London, SE4 1UT
Contact: 020 7676 7575
Croywall Climbing Centre
在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子
Address: Unit 7, New South Quarter, Whitestone Way, Croydon, CR0 4WN
Contact: 020 3026 4967
Croydon Airport Visitor Centre
Address: Airport House, Purley Way, Croydon, CR0 0XZ
Contact: 020 8680 5878
Jazz Cafe
在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子
Address: 5 Parkway London, NW1 7Pg
Contact: 020 7485 6834
What Are Your Thoughts?
You are now an expert on the best cheap places in London. What do you think? Will you choose to live in Bexley, or Hillingdon? Or perhaps Acton?
Have I converted you from wanting to live in zone 1 or 2, to being happy to live in zone 6?
It is clear that London has so much more to offer than its central region, and I hope you get to experience that!
If you want to know more about places to live in London, please have a read of our articles about the most expensive areas in London and the best places to live outside London.
