London is an expensive city to live in and that has been the case for a long time. These towns are well-situated for nearby towns and cities, providing convenient connections to larger metropolitan areas. Today, an increasing number of people are being priced out of the English capital but in many ways that is not as bad as it sounds. Among the best London commuter towns, Some towns located in close proximity to London are better connected to the city’s centre than many of the districts which are set within the very territory of the Big Smoke. What is more, the cost of living in and property prices in these towns are much more bearable compared to those in the UK capital. So, if you have been struggling to make ends meet in London and if you need to deal with a long commute to work every single day, maybe it is time for you to consider replacing London with a commuter town. The travel time to London from these towns is often surprisingly short, making the decision even more appealing. To speed up your search, we will offer you a detailed insight into the best commuter towns which are located not far from the English capital and those feature places such as:
- St Albans
- Luton
- Kent
- Haslemere
- Berkhamsted
- Brighton
- Stevenage
St Albans, Hertfordshire – A historic market town
With its cobbled high street, historic facts, and great schools, St Albans offers a perfect blend of city life and village life. Just a 20-minute train ride to London St Pancras International, St Albans is not only known for its beautiful cathedral but also for its bustling centre, high performing schools, and charming independent shops. The average property prices here are higher than some other commuter towns but offer value for money considering the quality of life and amenities available.
Luton, Bedfordshire – Very, very affordable
Luton may not be the prettiest town in Bedfordshire but it is currently among the best commuter spots outside of London. The commute to London St Pancras International station will take you less than 25 minutes and property prices here are very budget-friendly. A house in Luton will cost you an average of just £253,000 which, compared to the property prices in London, is a real bargain. This makes Luton highly attractive to young professionals and families alike, seeking affordable housing without compromising on travel time to London. In addition to that, the town has many fantastic schools which also makes it suitable for families. If you like how all of that sounds, you should quickly plan your relocation. Season ticket prices for the train are also relatively affordable, making commuting to London St Pancras a viable option for many. Hire a team of trained helpers in London and get moving because prices in Luton have been on the rise lately and soon you may not be able to afford to get a home here.
Kent – The Garden of England Beckons
Kent, often referred to as the Garden of England, offers a diverse range of lifestyle options for those looking to enjoy the country lifestyle while having an easy commute to London. Towns like Canterbury and Ashford stand out for their beauty, good schools, and community spirit. The travel time to London from Ashford, for example, is under 40 minutes to London St Pancras, making it an attractive commuting distance for many. The area also boasts several shopping centres, providing residents with a variety of leisure activities and dining options. Average house prices in Kent offer a range from the more affordable to the premium, catering to a wide variety of preferences. The presence of good local schools adds to Kent’s appeal for families.
Additionally, the regular train service to London Bridge, London – Charing Cross, and London Victoria ensures that residents have flexible commuting options. The area’s proximity to Gatwick Airport and the Chiltern Hills also opens up a variety of leisure and travel opportunities, solidifying Kent’s status as a coveted urban commuter town.
Haslemere, Surrey – Countrylike lifestyle
If one of the reasons you want to move out of London is that you have become sick and tired for the hassle and bustle of the big city, maybe you should consider buying a home in Halsemere. Nestled within the Surrey Hills, Haslemere offers a retreat into outstanding natural beauty, with green spaces and a tight-knit community feel. Compared to Luton, the commute is longer (about 50 minutes from London Waterloo and close to London Paddington) but it is a very relaxed, quiet and green spot. At the same time, it has an excellent high street with pubs, coffee shops and even boutiques. The average house price in Haslemere reflects its desirability and the quality of life it offers, making it a premium choice among London’s best commuter towns. Other great things about Halsemere are its schools and its diverse property market.
Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire – Not your typical rural town
You don’t mind the crowds and noise in London? In fact, they energise you? Well, Berkhamsted is the place for you. This bustling town is often considered one of the best London commuter towns thanks to its excellent schools, historic charm, and easy access to London via train. It offers a perfect balance between a village and a town. It has tranquil spots where you can enjoy the songs of the birds and the smell of grass. At the same time, it also has a few busy streets which always seem to be buzzing with life and energy. The commute to Luton Euston from here will take you about half an hour. Living in Berkhamsted means you’re never too far from a green space or the bustling town centre, providing all the amenities you could need.
Pictured: Berkhamsted High Street
Brighton – Vibrant Living on the Coast
Brighton is a unique blend of vibrant city life and seaside tranquility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an urban commuter town with a twist. Although technically not within the traditional commuting belt, Brighton’s travel time to London via train station is impressively competitive, with services reaching London Victoria and London Bridge in approximately an hour. This easy commute is enhanced by the annual season ticket, which many find to be a worthwhile investment for the quality of life Brighton offers.
Average house prices in Brighton reflect the city’s popularity, offering a range of properties within walking distance to the beach, central line services, and exceptional local schools. The regular train service to London, coupled with its cultural scene, makes Brighton a magnet for professionals looking for an escape from the capital’s hustle while still being a stone’s throw away from the action.
Stevenage, Hertfordshire – an off-the-radar gem
Stevenage is the rising star on our list. Not many people think of it as a commuter town but it can be described as one because it is affordable and well-connected to London (the commute to central London takes not more than 30 minutes) which is why you should give you a try.
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About the Author:
Kim Jacobs
Kim Jacobs is a removals coordinator with over 11 years of experience as part of the Get man and van team and other firms in the home and office relocation industry in London. Before joining our company, Kim has worked in various logistical and transportation companies and institutions such as Transport for London, The Removals Ombudsman, and has coordinated moving projects with some of the biggest suppliers of various goods such as IKEA, HomeBase, Amazon, Sainsbury's and others. While working as a chief removals coordinator, Kim also enjoys sharing her expertise with others through writing in our blog.
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