Moving to London is exciting, but it can feel a bit daunting too. Starting fresh in a city known for its fast pace, iconic sights, and unique culture can be overwhelming. But here’s the thing—thousands of people make the move to London every year, and most would tell you it’s worth it.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), London’s population was 8.945 million in mid-2023, up by 76,300 from the year before. This steady growth has been happening for years, with the city reaching 8.9 million in 2022 and projected to hit 9.6 million by 2035.
Whether you’re moving to London from another part of the UK or coming from overseas, the process can be nerve-wracking. That’s why we’ve put together this easy guide to help you know what to expect and make your transition as smooth as possible.
With the right tips and insights, moving to London can become one of the best decisions you ever make.
Advantages of Moving to London
Better Job Opportunities
London’s job market is one of its biggest draws. As the capital of the United Kingdom, it’s no surprise that it offers a huge variety of employment opportunities. Whether you’re in tech, finance, creative industries, or hospitality, there’s something for everyone. In early 2023, the city’s employment rate even climbed to 75.4%, a testament to its resilient and growing job market.
What makes working in London even better is the diversity of its workforce. You’ll meet young professionals pushing their way up the ladder, seasoned pros excelling in their fields, and university students just starting out and figuring things out as they go.
High Wages
One big perk of moving to London? The pay. London offers some of the highest wages in the UK. In 2023, the median annual salary for full-time workers in London was £44,370—nearly £10,000 more than the UK average of £34,963, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This makes London a top choice for job seekers looking for better pay and career opportunities across different industries.
Active Lifestyle
Relocating to a new place can feel lonely and lead to homesickness. But in London, you’re never short of things to do or places to explore. Here are some spots to help you get settled and stay entertained:
- Pubs and Nightlife: Check out local favorites like The Churchill Arms or Gordon’s Wine Bar for a lively atmosphere and a chance to meet new people.
- Historic Tours: Visit the iconic Tower of London or explore Sutton House, an authentic Tudor-era home.
- Art and Culture: Spend an afternoon at the Tate Modern or National Gallery for a dose of art. For theater lovers, a play at the West End is a must.
- Parks and Green Spaces: Relax or picnic at Hyde Park or Regent’s Park to soak in the city’s nature.
- Markets: Wander through Borough Market for great food or Camden Market for eclectic finds.
No matter your interests, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in London.
Stunning Sights
London’s landmarks are legendary and worth exploring. Here are some must-see attractions:
- Big Ben: The iconic clock tower and symbol of London.
- Tower of London: A historic fortress with stories spanning 1,000 years.
- London Eye: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.
- Tower Bridge: Take a walk or a tour for scenic river views.
- Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard and the royal residence.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: Admire the grand dome and beautiful interiors.
These sights showcase why millions of tourists and newcomers fall in love with London each year.
Cultural Mix
London is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, making it one of the most ethnically varied cities globally. According to the 2021 Census, 40.6% of London’s population was born outside the United Kingdom, highlighting the city’s international character.
This multicultural environment ensures that newcomers can find communities and cultural experiences that resonate with their backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging in this vibrant metropolis.
Disadvantages of Moving to London
High Cost of Living
London is the priciest city in the UK and ranks as the second most expensive in Western Europe for the cost of living. As of mid-2024, a single person can expect to spend over £4,200 per month on living expenses, while a family of four faces costs around £6,350 monthly. This is approximately £1,650 more each month than the national average in the UK.
Living in London comes with various expenses that can add up quickly. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly costs:
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: £2,178/month
- Monthly public transport pass: £182.50
- Taxi fare for a 1-hour ride on a weekday: £34
- Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: £81.50
- Monthly gym membership: £58.66
- Pint of beer (500ml): £6.50
Overcrowded Public Transportation
Even with its state-of-the-art infrastructure, London’s public transportation system can be a nightmare during peak hours. The sheer number of commuters means that buses, trains, and the Tube can become packed to capacity. During rush hour, squeezing into a carriage can feellike a battle, with personal space non-existent and delays adding to the frustration.
Commuters often find themselves shoulder-to-shoulder, making the journey uncomfortable and stressful. For newcomers, navigating this reality might come as a shock, but for many seasoned Londoners, it’s just part of city life.
Miserable Weather
If you’re a fan of grey skies and drizzle, London might feel like home. But for most people, the city’s weather is famously gloomy. Rain can pop up any time of year, often making umbrellas a permanent accessory. Winters are cold and damp, while summers, though milder, are often overcast and interrupted by unexpected showers.
The persistent clouds and lack of sunshine contribute to what many describe as a dull, dreary atmosphere. Adjusting to the constant chill and rain can be challenging, especially for those used to more predictable or sunnier climates.
Tourist Overload
Londoners face the reality of getting gawked at by tourists all day long. While good for the economy, the majority of London residents are already complaining that London is having a tourist overload problem. Getting to work can be difficult, especially when throngs of tourists are blocking your way, or if they park their car on the sidelines, blocking a lane or two, causing more traffic congestion.
Lack of Space
London’s overpopulation has driven up rent prices, making space a premium. Renting a one-bedroom flat in central London ranges from £1,500 to £2,500 per month, while two-bedroom flats can cost £2,000 to £4,000 or more. This has led to a rise in micro-apartments, with 1 in 20 homes now under 37 square meters, emphasizing minimalist living. Many residents are turning to shared apartments or co-living spaces as more affordable options.
London’s limited residential space can impact one’s mental health and overall quality of life, making it challenging to live comfortably among crowded furniture and personal items. This is essentially why storage facilities in London have surged in popularity, offering residents a practical way to declutter and maximise their living space.
Self-storage facilities provide a flexible way to store items that may not fit in your home, especially in overcrowded cities like London. Whether you’re in Chiswick, Southwark, Staples Corner, or Wimbledon, Henfield Storage offers a range of unit sizes to suit every need.
Instead of renting an apartment that is huge enough to house them and their items, residents can get a smaller flat and a storage unit for their items. They get to save hundreds of pounds on rent. And they don’t have to live with items that they don’t need in their daily lives.
The majority of newcomers also rent a storage unit in London to temporarily keep their items. Henfield Storage has multiple storage facilities all over London and Brighton for your convenience. A storage facility is also helpful when you are downsizing.
How to Get Around London
London’s extensive public transport system makes getting around the city easy and convenient. Whether you’re commuting for work, sightseeing, or heading out for a night on the town, here’s what you need to know:
1. The London Underground (The Tube)
The Tube is London’s primary subway system and one of the oldest and most efficient in the world. It covers 11 lines and is split into six zones:
- Zone 1: Central London, packed with major tourist attractions and shopping areas.
- Zone 6: The city’s outskirts, including Heathrow Airport, Romford, Uxbridge, and Barnet.
2. Payment Options
Getting around London is seamless with the right payment method:
- Oyster Card: A pre-paid travel card that works on most public transport modes.
- Contactless Payment: Use your debit or credit card directly at turnstiles and on buses. Just tap in and out with the same card to avoid extra charges.
- Ticket Machines: Available at all Tube stations if you need single or day tickets.
3. Fare Caps and Savings
One of the best things about London’s transport is the fare cap, which limits how much you spend in a day or week:
- Daily caps: Ensure you don’t overspend, even with multiple journeys.
- Peak vs. Off-Peak: Peak travel (weekday mornings and evenings) is more expensive, so travel off-peak when possible.
4. Additional Transport Options
- Buses: London’s red double-decker buses run frequently and are perfect for sightseeing while traveling.
- Overground & DLR: These extend to outer zones and ensure you can reach any part of the city.
- Thames Clippers: A river bus service that lets you enjoy scenic views of the Thames while commuting.
5. Tips for Smooth Travel
- Tap in and out: Always use the yellow card readers at stations and on buses to ensure you’re charged correctly.
- Annual Pass: Ideal for regular commuters and can save you money in the long run.
- Travel Apps: Use Citymapper or TfL Go to find the best routes and stay updated on delays.
6. Taxis and Black Cabs
For a more direct route, black cabs (Hackney Carriages) are a reliable option. They’re pricier but perfect when you’re in a hurry or need a convenient ride. All black cabs have a minimum fare of £3.80 and come equipped with contactless payment devices.
With these insights, navigating London’s transport system becomes easier and more manageable. Whether you’re new to the city or a regular, understanding these basics can make all the difference.
Should you Buy or Rent a property in London?
For those moving to London for the first time, renting is typically the more practical choice. The city is vast, with neighborhoods that vary widely in character, amenities, and overall vibe. Renting allows you to experience living in different areas before committing to a purchase. This flexibility is crucial in a city as diverse as London, where finding the right fit is important.
Renting also means shorter commitment periods compared to buying, making it easier to move if your circumstances change or if you discover a different neighborhood that better suits your needs.
The Cost of Renting vs. Buying
While rental prices in London can be high, they often cost less than monthly mortgage payments. House prices in London are among the highest in the UK, and renting provides a way to enjoy city life without the financial burden of a mortgage.
Renting requires a lower upfront cost than buying, making it more accessible for those who haven’t saved for a large deposit. When buying, you’ll need to pay a deposit of 5% to 10% of the property’s price, which can be a significant sum given London’s property market. On the other hand, rental deposits are capped at a maximum of 5 weeks’ rent for properties under £50,000 per annum or 6 weeks’ rent for those above £50,000, making renting a more affordable option to get started in the city.
You’ll also be exempt from maintenance costs
When weighing up whether to rent or buy in London, it’s important to think about maintenance costs. As a homeowner, you’re on the hook for all repairs and upkeep—big or small. For example, replacing a boiler in London can set you back anywhere from £2,000 to £5,000, which can be quite a hit to your budget.
On the other hand, if you’re renting, maintenance issues are usually taken care of by your landlord. This means that if something goes wrong, it’s not your financial headache. And in modern build-to-rent properties, you often get a 24-hour on-site team ready to handle emergencies and maintenance issues for you. With utilities sometimes included in the rent, it makes life simpler and stress-free. All you need to focus on is paying your monthly rent, leaving the worry of repairs behind.
your london moving checklist
Regardless of why you have decided to move, the actual transfer is undoubtedly a hard thing to do. At Henfield Storage, we share a common belief that moving houses must be quick, easy, and smooth. That is why we have created a Moving to London checklist so you can make sure that your move goes by without a hitch.
Packing Materials
You will need loads of boxes when you move. You can opt to buy new packing boxes, or if there’s a store nearby, you can ask them for containers. Make sure that all boxes are sturdy and clean. You don’t want to pick up your items on the street because one package suddenly gave way.
Aside from boxes, it would help if you also prepared the following things:
- Tape
- Bubble Wrap
- Rags
- Newspaper
- Rope
Look around for a store that sells these materials in bulk. Since you will need a lot, buying in bulk will save you money.
Moving Services
Moving to a new house will require professional help. It would help if you had professional movers so you can have a stress-free experience. Moving services range from man and van services to a full removals team. If you’re moving to London from overseas, managing international logistics can feel overwhelming. Ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time is crucial for a stress-free relocation. consider an International’s sea freight services offer reliable and cost-effective shipping solutions, making it easier to transport everything from furniture to personal effects seamlessly to your new London home.
Some benefits of hiring moving services include:
- Peace of mind
- No heavy lifting (for you)
- Quick and efficient moving
- Guaranteed safety and security for your items
- No hassle
Oyster Card
We recommend buying an Oyster card if you plan to travel across London. London’s transportation system is efficient and fast, which is why many Londoners prefer to use the Tube than drive. The traffic, especially on a rainy day, can also be pretty horrifying.
An Oyster card will let you go around London for a cheaper fare than buying a paper ticket. This should be one of your first purchases, especially if you’ll be commuting to work. It costs £5 for the card, but you can have it reimbursed when you leave London.
Sim Card
Communication is a crucial part of everyday life. If you’re coming from overseas, another essential item you must get on your first day is a sim card. Most phone plans require a UK bank account and a valid address, so a prepaid sim card will do for now.
You can also choose to buy a sim card online before you even arrive in London. Once you’ve got your UK bank account set up and ready to go, you’ll easily be able to get a postpaid contract with mobile service providers.
Tips on finding a flat in London
1. Set A Budget every month
When planning a move to London, establishing a clear budget is essential. Begin by assessing your financial situation to determine the maximum amount you can allocate for rent. While it’s generally advised to spend no more than 30% of your income on housing, London’s high cost of living often necessitates a higher percentage.
Housing Costs
As of November 2024, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom flat in London ranges from £1,500 to £2,500, depending on the location and quality of the property.
Living Expenses
In addition to rent, a single person living in London can expect to spend approximately £1,087.10 per month on living expenses, excluding rent.
These expenses typically include:
- Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): £200 per month
- Internet: £30 per month
- Transportation (public transport pass): £150 per month
- Groceries: £250 per month
- Dining out: £200 per month
- Entertainment and leisure: £100 per month
- Miscellaneous expenses: £157.10 per month
By carefully evaluating your income and expenses, you can set a realistic budget that accommodates both your housing needs and lifestyle in London.
2. Choose a reliable estate agent
Next, you’ll want to find a reliable estate agent who has your best interests in mind. London’s property market moves quickly, so ensure your agent is transparent and willing to show you properties in person or virtually before you commit.
Key Tips:
- View Properties First: Always see properties before making payments.
- Understand Fees: Watch for additional fees beyond rent, such as early tenancy termination, council tax, and replacement keys.
- Buyer Costs: Budget for valuation, surveyor, and legal fees if purchasing.
Research and Recommendations:
- Check Reviews: Read online reviews and regulatory feedback for a clear agent profile.
- Ask Around: Personal referrals from friends or family can be invaluable.
- Explore Resident Platforms: Sites like HomeViews provide resident feedback to help you choose trustworthy agents.
3. Be Flexible with Location
If you’re open to exploring different areas, you’ll have a better chance of finding a flat that suits your budget and preferences. Popular neighborhoods come with higher price tags, but nearby areas often offer more affordable options with similar benefits. Take the time to research up-and-coming areas where you might get more space and better amenities for your money.
4. Act Quickly
London’s rental market moves fast, and hesitation can mean missing out on a great property. Once you’ve found a flat that fits your criteria, be ready to act. Have all your necessary documents prepared, such as references and proof of income, so you can make an offer or sign a lease promptly. This proactive approach can make all the difference in securing your ideal home.
To learn more about this topic, read our guide on how to find a flat in London: Henfield Storage’s Guide.
Temporary Accommodations
When you move to a new house/flat, there is a chance that your place may not be ready for the next few days or even weeks. Electricity, gas, and plumbing may not be ready yet. Aside from renting a space where you can store your items, it would be best if you also considered where you’d be staying. Look around your neighbourhood for a cheap hotel room or an Airbnb while the movers are fixing your flat. You wouldn’t want to spend the night on the floor with no heating, would you? This is also an excellent way for you to relax and take in the London atmosphere without being in an apartment full of contractors.
Best Places to Live in London
Finding the right neighborhood in London depends on your lifestyle, budget, and needs. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to live in London based on different priorities:
1. Popular Neighborhoods for All
Brixton
Average Property Price: £560,891
Average Rental Price: £2,741 pcm
Located in South London’s Borough of Lambeth, Brixton is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant social scene. It offers affordable dining, music events, and excellent transport links via the Victoria Line, making it easy to reach central London in under 15 minutes. The area has plenty of parks, like Brockwell Park and Ruskin Park, perfect for downtime.
Shoreditch
Average Property Price: £687,923
Average Rental Price: £747 per week
Situated in East London’s Borough of Hackney, Shoreditch is trendy and popular among artists and young professionals. It’s filled with small shops, restaurants, and bars, and is just a 20-minute walk from the city center, making it a great choice for those who work nearby.
Clapham
Average Property Price: £854,510
Average Rental Price: £593 per week
Located in South London’s Borough of Lambeth, Clapham offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Its excellent transport links from Clapham Junction Station and bike-friendly paths make commuting easy. Clapham Common and Venn Street Market add to its appeal with year-round events and green spaces.
Hoxton
Average Property Price: £660,363
Average Rental Price: £813 per week
Part of Hackney, Hoxton is a vibrant area with green spaces like Shoreditch Park and Hackney Downs. Hoxton Overground and Old Street stations make commuting a breeze.
2. Best Places for Families
Hillingdon: With reputable schools, plenty of green spaces, and a low crime rate, Hillingdon is a top pick for families. The average property price for a three-bedroom home is around £577,192, with more affordable options in areas like Hayes and West Drayton.
Kingston-upon-Thames: Known for its excellent schools and safe environment, Kingston-upon-Thames features ample outdoor spaces and a family-friendly atmosphere. Average property prices are higher at £774,833, but it’s worth it for a suburban feel with good city access.
3. Most Affordable Neighborhoods
Barking and Dagenham
With the lowest average house price in London at £308,583, Barking and Dagenham is budget-friendly with good transport links via Zone 4 and a strong community feel.
Bexley
Bexley offers affordable house prices at £344,254, low rental costs, and a low crime rate. With over 100 parks and budget-friendly amenities, it’s perfect for those seeking value.
4. Top Picks for Students
Camden: With a lively music scene and proximity to universities, Camden is great for students looking for an exciting and connected environment, although rent can be pricey.
Bethnal Green: An affordable area close to Queen Mary University, Bethnal Green offers cafes, markets, and parks, making it a student-friendly neighborhood with a community vibe.
Brixton: Brixton is perfect for students who love vibrant nightlife and a sociable atmosphere. It’s known for its Caribbean culture, music scene, and artisan cafes. With great transport links and green spaces like Ruskin Park, Brixton offers a balanced lifestyle for students.
top things to try in london
Whether you’re moving to London or just popping by for a visit, it is always a good idea to experience the very best things it has to offer. Hence, we’ve come up with a list of things you must try and experience in London. Here they are:
explore the barbican conservatory
Visit the art complex that is part of a large concrete estate for an afternoon. It’s a landmark of London’s brutalist architecture, and it also has 2,000 expensive apartments for rent or sale.
The city’s second-largest conservatory and a 2,000-plant indoor garden are located here. You’ll see world-class works of art in all genres at the festival. It’s one of London’s best activities.
You’ll never get weary of exploring London’s stunning indoor forest, which resembles a secret garden.
The glass-encased rainforest is London’s second-largest conservatory and features a lighting display that gives the plants and flowers an extra sparkle. A guided tour is an excellent way to learn more about the plants. Take plenty of time when visiting the conservatory because it contains everything you could ever want.
On Sundays, the Conservatory serves afternoon tea.
Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a must-see event and a quintessential London experience. Starting from St. James’s Palace to The Mall at 11:30 am, the parade showcases precision marching and music.
Buckingham Palace, built in 1837, has been the Royal Family’s London residence since Queen Victoria’s reign. Want to know if the King is home? Check if his flag is flying—this means he’s in residence. Tours of the State Rooms and the Queen’s Gallery are available when the monarch is away at their summer residence in Scotland.
Try Some of London’s Best Cocktails
For cocktail enthusiasts, the Lush Life Cocktail Tour offers an exciting way to experience London’s vibrant cocktail scene. This 3.5-hour tour takes you to famous and hidden bars in Soho, allowing you to taste iconic cocktails while learning their history.
Guided by stories and anecdotes, you’ll meet talented bartenders and sample eight mini cocktails, each served with food to enhance the experience. This unique tour combines storytelling, history, and delicious drinks.
Explore London Food Markets
London’s food markets are a haven for food lovers, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity. From gourmet dishes to street food, there’s always something new to try. Wander through markets, sample free bites, and show support by purchasing from local vendors.
Must-try items include Khanom Krok, a tasty Thai street food, or a rich duck confit sandwich at Borough Market’s Padella. The freshly-made pasta at Padella is another crowd favorite.
Tour the Sculptures at the Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in South Kensington is an art lover’s dream, with 145 galleries and 13 acres of art and artifacts spanning over 5,000 years. Planning your visit is key, as the museum’s vast collection is impossible to cover in one day.
Free guided tours offer a great introduction or a deep dive into specific themes. Don’t miss the Main and Garden Cafés, where even the architecture is a work of art. For a special experience, visit during “Friday Late” events held on the last Friday of most months, featuring food, drinks, and late-night exhibitions.
See London from a Bird’s Eye View
Nothing compares to the breathtaking experience of a helicopter flight over London’s skyline. A helicopter tour offers an unparalleled view of the city, giving you a unique perspective of its iconic sites.
Tours often start in central London, taking you across both the western and eastern parts of the city. During the 20-minute journey, the pilot points out notable landmarks as you soar. Plan your trip around sunset for a truly romantic and memorable experience. If you’ve already explored the city’s top attractions, a helicopter ride is a fantastic way to see modern additions like The Shard and enjoy the evolving skyline.
Take a Ride on the London Eye
For a 360-degree view of central London, nothing beats a ride on the London Eye. In just 30 minutes, you’ll get sweeping views of landmarks like Parliament and Big Ben. On a clear day, you can see much of London from the river, rooftops, and an impressive height of 404 feet. It’s a must-do experience for first-time visitors and those wanting to see the city from a new angle.
Explore Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a vibrant area with the historic Covent Garden Market at its heart, centered around a pedestrian-only Piazza. Nearby, you’ll find attractions such as The Yards, The Opera, and Seven Dials, all within a short walk.
The surrounding streets, like Neal’s Yard and Long Acre, are filled with specialty shops, unique street performers, and charming cafes. Covent Garden is also close to Soho, Leicester Square, and Trafalgar Square, making it a perfect spot to explore on foot. For those staying nearby, Bloomsbury, known for its literary history and cultural sites, is just a short stroll away.
stroll around east london
A weekend tradition in east London, the Sunday flower market lines the streets on Sundays. Columbia Road is a haven for hipsters and one of the greatest places in the city to buy flowers, bedding plants, cacti, and even a banana tree if you have the patio area and upper body power to transport it.
Since 1900, this workers’ café has fed the excellent people of east London with eggy, meaty, and pan-fried carbohydrates and proteins. A fascinating property on Folgate Street in east London has been decorated to mimic the home of Huguenot silk weavers from the eighteenth century.
experience piccadilly circus
Piccadilly Circus is the hub of London’s hustle and bustle, where five busy routes intersect. While Piccadilly is constantly bustling with people on their way to work in the morning, Oxford Street (a few blocks north) is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike to shop and dine.
Conclusion
Life in London can be posh and glamorous, but there are also many challenges that you might face. Residents would tell you that a never give up attitude is important if you want to survive the city. To be a full-fledged Londoner, then you have to be tough and creative on any problems that you face.
