How to Decide Where to Live in London

Living in London means every day is different. From world-class dining and unforgettable nights out to iconic landmarks and hidden local gems, the capital never runs out of ways to surprise you. But with so many incredible neighbourhoods to choose from, deciding where to put down roots can feel like the toughest decision of all.

If you want to make sure you end up in a place that truly feels like home, here’s what to keep in mind when picking your perfect corner of London:

Key Considerations 

What's Your Budget? 

There’s no getting away from it: London can be an expensive place to live. So, before you put pen to paper on your dream home, make sure you're buying in an area you can afford.

Our top budgeting tips:

• Always do your research to work out which neighbourhoods suit your budget. While the centre of London is likely to set you back much more, there are lots of areas on the outskirts where you can enjoy London life for much less.
• There are plenty of schemes out there to help. If you’re struggling to save a lump sum deposit, investigate Shared Ownership homes in London. Other popular schemes include London Living Rent and Affordable Rent, both of which can help you in your journey to find your next home. 
• Always account for hidden costs along the way, including stamp duty, solicitor costs and moving expenses.

London Transport Links 

You might think you’ve landed the apartment of your dreams, but that’s no good if your commute takes up to two hours. To avoid needing to wake up at 6 am and spending a substantial amount on transport, start your house-hunting by identifying how close you are to your school or place of work. It’s also worth looking at new developments in London, as they are often walking distance from a handy tube or train line for easy access into the centre.

Lifestyle and Character 

One of the biggest perks of living in London is that there’s something for all kinds of lifestyles, from vibrant neighbourhoods full of entertainment to more peaceful, family-friendly areas. 

Places like Hendon are great for commuters and families seeking a balance between urban living and scenic green escapes. Meanwhile, neighbourhoods like Lewisham offer vibrant, affordable living with excellent transport links. So, before you start house-hunting, decide what you want from your next area.

Services and Amenities 

Nearby amenities are important for enhancing your lifestyle. If you love wandering through nature, finding an area with plenty of green space should be a priority. At Square Roots, all our homes boast private outdoor space, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or getting some much-needed headspace after work. 

Look at the lifestyle perks located in proximity to properties you’re interested in. Things like supermarkets, cafes and popular eateries can make all the difference in how at home you feel in an area.

Connect with your Local Community

Want to get a background check on what your living area is like? Why not find out from the people who live there? 

There are lots of ways you can connect with your local community, from joining a Facebook group dedicated to the area, to striking up a conversation with your potential neighbours. Check in with the locals, and you can expect an honest and unbiased view of what to expect from your area. 

The Best London Areas 

When it comes to finding the perfect balance of value, lifestyle, and investment potential, a few London locations stand out. At Square Roots, we handpick locations that offer a range of benefits for our residents. Hendon offers excellent London transport links, and a thriving community feel, making it ideal for both professionals and families. Lewisham is a vibrant, well-connected hub with a growing cultural scene and competitive property prices. 

Looking ahead, planned developments in Kingston and Crayford promise exciting opportunities for early movers, with improved infrastructure and amenities set to enhance these already appealing areas.

Rent before you buy 

Considered everything and still unsure about where to live in London? To avoid making a financial investment that you regret, it might be a good idea to spend a year or two renting to get a feel for your new area. This will save you the trouble and pain of having to go through the selling process a few years down the line. At Square Roots, you can rent a high-quality home at a 20% reduction of the market rate, freeing you up to save to buy a home in the future.

With a selection of new build apartments dotted all over London, Square Roots can get your home-owning journey started in style. Take advantage of affordable options like Shared Ownership and Affordable Rent, and you can enjoy an area you love, without the financial burden.