With postcodes that cater to all tastes, London is easily one of the best cities in the world to call home (despite the high prices). And if you’re renting you will be spoilt for choice – no matter your budget. But where are the best places to rent an apartment in London? We’ve put this handy guide together with 12 great neighbourhoods where you can find a new home in 2024.
1. Covent Garden
From a bustling piazza to the many boutique shops, stylish restaurants and bars, Covent Garden is the epitome of central London living. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the West End, London’s theatre district, and living in the WC2 postcode puts you right in the heart of the action.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £2,580pcm
2. The City of London
The City of London is the capital’s other financial powerhouse (alongside Canary Wharf) and centres around the Square Mile. It includes sought-after spots in St. Paul’s, Moorgate, Liverpool Street, Bank, and Aldgate. Expect a mixture of historic architecture and elegant, modern buildings, which blend effortlessly together in the City.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £2,215pcm
3. Soho
Known as London’s party capital, Soho is a diverse area that never sleeps. It attracts a wide range of people who come for live entertainment, all-night parties and world-class shopping in nearby Oxford Street and Leicester Square.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £2,750pcm
4. St. John’s Wood
North West London’s St. John’s Wood is famous for Abbey Road, which is the site where the Beatles created the album cover for their record of the same name. The area is filled with grand mansion blocks, and the high street features quaint boutiques. St. John’s Wood is located close to Regent’s Park and Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £1,990pcm
5. Westminster
The home of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament also happens to be a popular residential neighbourhood. The landmark buildings add a sense of history, and its proximity to the West End and Victoria means there are plenty of fun things to do in and around the area.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £2,500pcm
6. Maida Vale
Scenic canal settings give West London’s Maida Vale a distinct feel in comparison with other nearby neighbourhoods. Good travel links, local coffee shops and boutiques add to Maida Vale’s appeal, while the area is one of the quietest in this part of London. But you really can’t beat an afternoon drink or meal down by the canal in Little Venice during the warmer months.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £1,900pcm
7. Islington
Arty vibes meet chic styles in Islington, where there’s always something sociable going on. Wander Upper Street and browse the boutiques before stopping at an international restaurant for some world-class cuisine. When you’re finished, head to one of the many bars, watch a movie at the local cinema or spend the night dancing at one of the many clubs. There’s also high-end living at Vantage Point, our trendy build-to-rent community with sweeping views over the skyline.
Rents at Vantage Point for a one-bedroom apartment: from £1,841pcm
8. Brixton
If you fancy heading south of the river, then why not look at living in Brixton? It’s one of the best places to rent in London thanks to a strong community vibe, a range of shops, bars and restaurants and excellent travel links on the Victoria Line. Brixton has some serious soul, whether you’re exploring Electric Avenue or watching a movie at the art deco Ritzy cinema. It also has a thriving nightlife scene that's sure to keep your weekends busy.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £1,400pcm
9. Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace is full of good vibes and views. Perched on a hilltop, many of the homes here feature sweeping sights of the London skyline. And when you’re not admiring the scenery, there are a range of independent shops and restaurants to discover, as well as great bars, pubs and an Everyman cinema where you can catch the latest flick.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £1,100pcm
10. Greenwich
Green spaces, maritime history and a sprawling market selling all sorts of gems await you in Greenwich. It offers an alternative from London’s hustle, and bustle yet is just a short journey to Canary Wharf. And if you love the idea of a modern home in peaceful surroundings, why not check out our Union Wharf community for stylish living with five-star social spaces.
Rents at Union Wharf for a one-bedroom apartment: from £1,595pcm
11. Bethnal Green
If Shoreditch is a bit too full-on for you, then Bethnal Green offers the perfect alternative. There’s still a buzz in this East London neighbourhood, but it’s slightly more low key than Shoreditch. Stop at the many local cafes and bars for a bite and a drink, then get back to nature in the nearby Pavilion Park. And don’t forget to check out our Dressage Court with its 104 fashionable apartments and social spaces that include a games room and workstations.
Rents at Dressage Court for a one-bedroom apartment: from £1,733pcm
12. Paddington
West London’s Paddington enjoys convenient travel links that offer express services to Heathrow. There’s also a good mix of charming period properties and new developments that add to the London skyline. Oh, and of course, let’s not forget Paddington Bear, who truly put the area on the map.
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: £2,000pcm
The best places to rent in London
There’s so much choice when it comes to finding somewhere to live in the capital. And any one of the neighbourhoods on our list would make a great place to live.
Now that you've got an idea of where you want to live, why not read our guide on the best ways to find an apartment in London?
