London remains one of the most desirable cities in the world to live in — attracting people who dream of career growth and a vibrant cultural environment. Housing here doesn’t come cheap: according to Halifax and the UK Land Registry, the average home price in the capital now reaches £618,900.
Still, if the price tag doesn’t scare you off, it’s worth looking into the areas highlighted by The Times as the best places to move in 2025.
Walthamstow
This neighbourhood brings together everything Londoners love: atmospheric pubs, diverse restaurants, independent boutiques, well-kept parks, elegant homes, and a warm, welcoming community. In May, a brand new Soho Theatre venue with 960 seats is opening here — adding even more weight to the area’s cultural appeal.
Average house price: £532,800
Bloomsbury
A bohemian district in central London, Bloomsbury has a distinctly academic atmosphere, an abundance of bookshops, and the British Museum within walking distance. While located in the heart of the city, it manages to avoid excessive pretentiousness. Around £400 million is planned to be invested in improving Bloomsbury over the next few years, making now a good time to move in — before prices surge even higher.
Average house price: £650,100
East Dulwich
Just a 15-minute ride from London Bridge, East Dulwich offers more energy and personality than its more traditional neighbour Dulwich. Here you’ll find a popular Picturehouse cinema, a buzzing local library, and Lordship Lane — one of the best high streets for independent shops in the UK.
Average house price: £817,800
Stoke Newington
If you’re looking for a friendly, close-knit community, Stoke Newington is worth considering. Despite the lack of a Tube station, it’s well served by three Overground stops and the legendary 73 bus route, which goes all the way to Oxford Circus. Add in plenty of green spaces, cosy cafés, and beautiful Victorian architecture, and you’ve got a highly livable area.
Average house price: £722,100
Telegraph Hill
A quiet, family-friendly area in southeast London, Telegraph Hill is known for its two large parks, good schools, and charming architecture. The local community is actively involved in neighbourhood events and initiatives. And if you’re into fireworks, the views from here on New Year’s Eve rival those from the South Bank.
Average house price: £552,500
Twickenham
Popular with families, Twickenham is known for its excellent state schools. The area is also close to the royal parks of Richmond and Bushy, and trains to London Waterloo take just 25 minutes. With its spacious red-brick houses, this is a great location for a slower-paced, family-oriented lifestyle.
Average house price: £770,200
Wembley
Thanks to a massive £2.8 billion regeneration project, Wembley has transformed into one of the city’s most liveable areas. The final phase of redevelopment will be completed by 2027, by which time nearly half the space around the iconic stadium will be turned into parks and green spaces. Wembley also boasts outstanding schools like Michaela Community School and Ark Elvin Academy, both rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Average house price: £474,000
Why Chelsea, Hampstead and Shoreditch Didn’t Make the List
Some may be surprised not to see traditionally prestigious areas like Chelsea, Hampstead, or Shoreditch included. However, in 2025, these neighbourhoods have notable downsides that make them less appealing for relocation when compared to places like Walthamstow or Twickenham.
Chelsea remains a symbol of London’s glossy lifestyle, with luxury boutiques and iconic streets like King’s Road. But property prices here have long exceeded reason — with average homes costing well over £1 million — and the area often feels more like a tourist zone or an exclusive enclave than a welcoming place to live.
Hampstead is one of the city’s greenest and most beautiful areas, beloved by wealthy professionals and media personalities. Yet that very exclusivity has become a drawback: the housing market is overheated, supply is extremely limited, and the social fabric is increasingly closed-off and homogeneous. Public transport access is also weaker compared to other parts of London, especially in the south and east.
Shoreditch, once a hub of creativity and hipster culture, has undergone a full-blown rebranding. Rents have skyrocketed, independent businesses have been replaced by chains, and rapid gentrification has diluted much of the area’s original character. While still trendy, it no longer feels as soulful — or affordable — as it once did.
In contrast, areas like Walthamstow, Stoke Newington, and Twickenham stand out in 2025 for their vibrant communities, green spaces, more accessible property prices, and a still-present sense of authenticity. These districts strike a rare balance between livability, urban growth, and the real spirit of London.