Where is the best place to live to commute to London?
If you’re looking for the best commuter towns near London, a few locations really stand out.
These towns not only provide quick access to London but also offer a friendly community atmosphere, making them ideal for families and professionals alike.
Here are some of the top contenders:
1. Guildford
Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes to London Waterloo
Average house price: £516,000
Highlights:
Picturesque surroundings with a historic town centre
Excellent schools and universities nearby
Thriving cultural scene with theatres and galleries
Guildford is a top pick for commuters seeking a perfect blend of convenience and charm.
With direct trains whisking you to London Waterloo in just about 35 minutes, you can easily enjoy the buzz of the city while retreating to a picturesque town filled with character.
Guildford’s stunning countryside views and historic architecture create a lovely backdrop for everyday life.
The town centre offers a delightful mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for weekend outings or after-work catch-ups with friends.
Families will appreciate the excellent schools and safe environment, while nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Surrey Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
In Guildford, you get the best of both worlds: easy access to the capital and a welcoming community that feels like home.
2. St Albans
Travel time: Around 20 minutes to central London via train
Average house price: £584,000
Highlights:
Rich in history with a stunning cathedral
Vibrant market and high street
Great schools and parks
St Albans is a gem of a commuter town, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to balance the buzz of city life with the charm of suburban living.
Just a quick 20-minute train ride from central London, you can enjoy easy access to the capital while soaking in the rich history and vibrant culture of St Albans.
Plus, with great schools and a friendly community vibe, it’s perfect for families and professionals alike.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a local café or exploring the stunning St Albans Cathedral, this town has everything you need to feel right at home.
3. Bromley
Travel time: Approximately 25 minutes to London Victoria
Average house price: £504,000
Highlights:
Mix of suburban living with a lively town centre
Plenty of green spaces and parks
Good local amenities and schools
Bromley stands out as a brilliant choice for commuters, thanks to its unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience.
Nestled in the heart of Kent, this town offers a delightful mix of leafy streets and vibrant local culture.
What sets Bromley apart is its impressive array of parks, such as Crystal Palace Park, where you can spend weekends strolling through gardens or enjoying a picnic.
The local community thrives on its friendly atmosphere, with farmers’ markets and community events that bring everyone together.
Not to mention, Bromley’s impressive shopping scene, including the Glades shopping centre, caters to all your retail needs.
With its excellent transport links, you can head into London via Victoria station for work and still come back to a town that feels like a retreat from the city hustle.
Where to live 30 minutes from London?
Want to live somewhere super-close to London, so you don’t have a long commute?
These towns are ideal for those who want a manageable commute while enjoying the perks of suburban living:
4. Woking
Travel time: About 25 minutes to London Waterloo
Average house price: £457,000
Highlights:
Modern town centre with plenty of shops and restaurants
Beautiful parks and a theatre
Good schools and a family-friendly vibe
Woking is a fantastic choice for those commuting to London, offering a perfect blend of convenience and quality living.
With just a 25-minute train journey to the heart of the city, you can enjoy the excitement of London while retreating to a town that feels like home.
Woking boasts a lively town centre filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, so there’s always something to do on the weekends.
The local parks and green spaces provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely weekends, whether you’re picnicking with friends or enjoying a peaceful stroll.
And the strong sense of community here makes it a welcoming place to settle down, making it ideal for everyone from young professionals to families seeking a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
5. Watford
Travel time: About 20 minutes to London Euston
Average house price: £351,000
Highlights:
Plenty of green spaces, including Cassiobury Park
Good schools and family amenities
Reasonable house prices
Watford is a brilliant option for anyone looking to commute to London while enjoying the perks of a vibrant town life.
With swift train services getting you into Euston in just around 20 minutes, you’ll find it super easy to pop into the city for work or fun.
This lively town boasts an array of shops, entertainment venues, and dining options, meaning there’s always something happening.
Plus, Watford is surrounded by beautiful parks, offering the perfect escape for weekend picnics or leisurely walks.
With a friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of community, it’s an ideal spot for families and young professionals alike.
You get the excitement of city life and the comforts of suburban living, making Watford a fantastic place to settle down!
6. Iver
Travel time: About 30 minutes to London Paddington
Average house price: £471,000
Highlights:
Charming village atmosphere with a rich history
Excellent transport links to London and surrounding areas
Close to beautiful countryside and local parks
Iver is an appealing choice for commuters looking for a quieter lifestyle while still being within easy reach of London.
With a direct train service getting you to Paddington in around 30 minutes, you can seamlessly blend your work and personal life.
This quaint town offers a delightful mix of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for leisurely weekends or after-work outings.
The community is warm and welcoming, creating a friendly environment where you can easily make connections.
For those who love the outdoors, Iver is surrounded by picturesque countryside, providing plenty of opportunities for scenic walks and weekend adventures.
With its good schools and family-friendly amenities, it’s an excellent spot for families and young professionals alike.
In Iver, you’ll find the ideal balance between the vibrancy of city life and the peace of suburban living, making it a fantastic place to call home!
What towns are nice to live outside London?
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are many lovely towns just outside London.
These towns offer a delightful blend of community spirit, amenities, and access to nature, making them appealing places to live outside of London:
7. Leighton Buzzard
Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes to London Euston
Average house price: £343,000
Highlights:
Quaint town with a friendly atmosphere
Access to beautiful countryside, including the Grand Union Canal
Affordable housing options
Leighton Buzzard is a fantastic choice for commuters who appreciate a charming, close-knit community while still being within easy reach of London.
Just a short train journey of about 35 minutes to Euston means you can hop into the city for work or leisure whenever you like.
The town is known for its picturesque streets and delightful countryside, providing a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
With a variety of local shops, cafes, and parks, there’s always something to explore on the weekends.
It’s a lovely place to call home, where you can enjoy the best of both worlds — town charm and city convenience!
8. Dartford
Travel time: About 30-40 minutes to London Bridge
Average house price: £346,000
Highlights:
A dynamic town rich in history and culture
A variety of shopping and dining options, including the popular Orchards Shopping Centre
Abundant green spaces, such as Central Park and Dartford Heath
Dartford is an excellent choice for commuters seeking a blend of convenience and community while working in London.
With quick train connections whisking you into the city via London Bridge in about 30 minutes, you can enjoy both the hustle of urban life and the comforts of home.
This energetic town features a diverse range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring there’s always something to explore.
Dartford’s vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to connect with friends and meet new people in a welcoming environment.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous parks and open spaces that Dartford offers, perfect for weekend strolls or family outings.
With its good schools and family-friendly facilities, it’s an attractive place for households of all shapes and sizes.
In Dartford, you’ll find the perfect balance between the fast-paced city and the tranquility of suburban life, making it a fantastic place to call your own!
9. Basingstoke
Travel time: Roughly 45 minutes to London Waterloo
Average house price: £363,000
Highlights:
Modern town centre with a variety of shops and restaurants
Access to parks and recreational activities
Great transport links to London and other nearby towns
Basingstoke is a hidden gem for commuters looking for a blend of convenience and community spirit.
With trains whisking you into London in about 45 minutes, you can easily balance the demands of city life with the comfort of a more relaxed setting.
The town is known for its modern amenities, including shopping centres and a variety of dining options, making it a lively place to unwind after a busy day.
Families will love the abundance of parks and recreational activities available, plus there are excellent schools in the area.
What sets Basingstoke apart is its rich history combined with a forward-thinking vibe — whether you’re exploring the famous Milestones Museum or enjoying the latest shows at the Anvil, there’s always something new to discover.
It’s a fantastic spot to call home, where you can enjoy both the hustle and bustle of London and the charm of a welcoming community.
Where is the cheapest place to live in London to commute to?
If affordability is your priority, towns like Luton and Stevenage stand out as some of the cheapest commuter towns near London.
According to the Office for National Statistics, these are the most budget-friendly areas near London when it comes to housing:
10. Luton
Travel time: Roughly 30 minutes to London St Pancras
Average house price: £264,000
Highlights:
Diverse community and affordable housing
Good shopping facilities and entertainment options
Close proximity to Luton Airport for travel convenience
Luton stands out as an ideal commuter town for those wanting to balance accessibility with affordability.
With a quick train ride of around 30 minutes to St Pancras, you can be in central London in no time!
Luton offers a vibrant mix of cultures, reflected in its diverse dining options and lively atmosphere.
The town boasts spacious homes at a fraction of the cost of central London, making it a fantastic choice for families or anyone looking to maximise their living space.
Plus, the nearby parks and green areas provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, perfect for unwinding after a hectic day.
With its strong community feel and convenient transport links, Luton truly has something for everyone.
11. Harlow
Travel time: About 30 minutes to London Liverpool Street
Average house price: £309,000
Highlights:
Affordable housing and good transport links
Green spaces and parks, including the Harlow Town Park
Local shopping and amenities
Harlow is an excellent option for those looking to commute to London while enjoying a more laid-back lifestyle.
With train journeys taking around 30 minutes to reach Liverpool Street, it offers a great balance between city accessibility and suburban comfort.
This town is known for its affordable housing, which means you can get more space for your money — perfect for families or anyone wanting a bit of room to breathe.
Harlow is also home to a variety of parks and green spaces, making it easy to unwind outdoors after a busy week.
12. Stevenage
Travel time: Around 20-30 minutes to London Kings Cross
Average house price: £325,000
Highlights:
A family-friendly town with a strong sense of community
Excellent shopping options, including the Eastgate Shopping Centre
Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, such as Fairlands Valley Park
Stevenage is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious commuters heading into London.
With direct trains taking you to the capital in about 30 minutes, you can easily balance your work commitments with the perks of living outside the city.
This lively town is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and eateries, making it a great spot for socialising or enjoying a quiet meal.
Stevenage also boasts a welcoming atmosphere, fostering a community spirit that makes it easy to settle in.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the extensive green spaces available, perfect for leisurely walks or family outings.
The town features good schools and numerous amenities, making it particularly appealing for families.
Where are Londoners moving to in 2024?
As we move into 2024, many Londoners are flocking to commuter villages and towns like Sevenoaks, but also further afield, like Brighton and Reading.
These areas offer the charm of village life combined with quick access to the capital.
The demand for homes in these regions is rising as more people seek greener pastures without sacrificing their careers.
As we move into 2024, many Londoners are reevaluating their living situations and seeking out commuter towns and villages.
13. Sevenoaks
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes to London Bridge
Average house price: £501,000
Highlights:
Charming market town with a rich heritage
Diverse range of shops and cafes, including the bustling high street
Close proximity to stunning countryside, including the Kent Downs
Sevenoaks is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to balance budget-friendly living with a convenient commute to London.
With quick train connections that whisk you to the capital in about 30 minutes, you can easily enjoy everything the city has to offer while retreating to the serene charm of this market town.
The high street is lively, filled with an array of independent shops, delightful cafes, and restaurants, providing plenty of options for weekend outings or casual meet-ups with friends.
The strong community spirit in Sevenoaks makes it easy to connect with neighbours and enjoy local events.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Kent Downs offers breathtaking scenery and numerous walking trails, perfect for those who love to explore nature.
14. Brighton
Travel time: Approximately 1 hour to London Victoria
Average house price: £433,000
Highlights:
A lively seaside city with a vibrant arts and culture scene
Renowned for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and cafés
Beautiful beaches and picturesque coastline
Brighton is an exciting choice for those seeking a dynamic coastal lifestyle while still being within reach of London.
With a direct train journey of about an hour to Victoria, you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the capital without sacrificing the unique charm of this vibrant city.
The atmosphere in Brighton is electric, with a wealth of independent shops, trendy eateries, and lively entertainment options that keep the city buzzing day and night.
The famous Brighton Pier and the iconic Royal Pavilion add to the city’s character, offering plenty of attractions for residents and visitors alike.
For those who love the outdoors, Brighton’s stunning beaches provide a perfect escape for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
The city's also known for its strong sense of community, making it easy to meet new people and participate in local events.
15. Reading
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes to London Paddington
Average house price: £328,000
Highlights:
A bustling town with a thriving business scene
Diverse dining options and a vibrant nightlife
Beautiful parks and the scenic River Thames
Reading is an ideal spot for commuters looking for a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm.
With direct trains to Paddington taking around 30 minutes, and a station on the Elizabeth line, it’s easy to access London for work or leisure while enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle at home.
This lively town boasts a rich mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ensuring there’s always something to do.
The Oracle shopping centre is a highlight, featuring a variety of retail options and eateries, making it a perfect destination for weekend outings or after-work gatherings.
Reading is also known for its green spaces, with numerous parks and the picturesque River Thames providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the sun.
Is it better to live in London or commute?
Honestly, there’s no right answer here.
Living in London can be thrilling, with endless activities, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
But the cost of living is high, and space can be tight.
On the flip side, commuting allows you to enjoy a more spacious and possibly more affordable lifestyle in the suburbs.
Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and what suits your lifestyle best.
To help you figure out whether you’d suit commuting or living in London, here’s a handy pro/con breakdown:
Living in London
Pros:
Endless entertainment, nightlife, and cultural experiences
Proximity to work and networking opportunities
Access to diverse food and dining options
Cons:
High cost of living, especially housing
Smaller living spaces and lack of outdoor areas
Increased stress and noise from city life
Commuting to London
Pros:
More affordable housing and larger living spaces
Access to nature and a quieter lifestyle
Community-focused living, often with better schools and amenities
Cons:
Longer commute times, which can eat into your personal time
Potentially higher transportation costs
Less spontaneity with activities compared to living in the city
Finding the right commuter town can transform your work-life balance.
From affordability to community spirit, there are plenty of options just a stone’s throw from London.
Whether you’re considering moving for a better quality of life or simply searching for a change, towns like St Albans, Harlow, and Luton are worth your attention.
One thing’s clear, though: the demand for affordable, attractive commuter towns will likely continue to rise, providing more opportunities for those looking to make a change.
