Where Are Groceries Most Expensive in London?
Living in London means dealing with higher food costs than the rest of the UK, though some neighbourhoods are significantly pricier than others when it comes to your weekly shop.
Using aggregated cost-of-living data from sources like Numbeo, Expatistan, and the London Assembly, we’ve ranked the top 10 most expensive places in London to buy groceries in 2025.
Average Monthly Grocery Spend in London
- London average (2025): £270/month per person
- UK national average: £220/month per person
- Central boroughs consistently spend 10–20% more
Top 10 Most Expensive London Areas for Grocery Shopping
1. Kensington & Chelsea (W8, SW3)
Often ranked the UK’s wealthiest borough, grocery costs reflect its premium lifestyle. Local stores include Whole Foods, Waitrose, and boutique delis.
Estimated monthly spend: £310–£340
2. Westminster (SW1, W1)
Convenient but costly. Proximity to luxury grocers, central delivery hubs, and limited access to budget supermarkets drives up costs.
Estimated monthly spend: £300–£330
3. Camden (NW1, NW3)
Known for its food culture, but regular shops trend toward M&S, Planet Organic and independent chains.
Estimated monthly spend: £290–£320
4. Hampstead (part of Camden – NW3)
With artisanal stores and higher-than-average prices across grocers, Hampstead edges even higher.
Estimated monthly spend: £285–£310
5. Islington (N1, N5)
Despite being ranked Number 5, Islington is only 3.6% above the average cost in London for groceries. Islington is trendy and centrally located, boasting a growing foodie scene. While it provides access to markets, many nearby shops are upscale chains.
Estimated monthly spend: £280–£305
Check out our available apartments in Islington.
6. Fulham & Hammersmith (SW6, W6)
Popular with professionals, Fulham’s grocers lean premium, though you’ll find the odd Lidl further west.
Estimated monthly spend: £275–£295
7. Clapham / Battersea (SW11, SW4)
Convenient for central workers, but high property values and gentrified retail zones mean higher grocery pricing.
Estimated monthly spend: £270–£290
8. Hackney (E8, E9)
While Hackney has great markets, everyday supermarket prices have risen as the area becomes more desirable.
Estimated monthly spend: £265–£285
9. Greenwich (SE10)
Greenwich has average grocery costs for London. It is a growing area with beautiful views. Sainsbury’s, M&S, and Waitrose are the main stores in important areas.
Estimated monthly spend: £260–£280
Check out our available apartments in Greenwich.
10. Bethnal Green / Shoreditch (E2)
Bethnal Green remains the most affordable borough of the10 as prices sit below the average London's grocery cost. East London’s creative hub is still relatively affordable, but grocery inflation and market pricing push costs.
Estimated monthly spend: £250–£270
Check out our available apartments in Bethnal Green.
Cost-Saving tips for grocery shopping in expensive boroughs
- Use local markets (like Borough, Broadway, and Roman Road) for produce
- Try online price comparison tools like Trolley.co.uk or supermarket apps
- Shop own-label ranges (Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Lidl)
- Buy staples in bulk: rice, pasta, household items
- Freeze fresh food to reduce waste
Where to live near affordable supermarkets?
If grocery costs are a concern, living near budget supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl and Asda can make a real difference. Essential Living developments are located close to affordable food shops and markets — and offer added savings through perks like on-site gyms, free Wi-Fi, and no hidden fees.
View pet-friendly apartments in:
- Greenwich (Union Wharf)
- Islington (Vantage Point)
- Bethnal Green (Dressage Court)
- Maidenhead (Berkshire House)
You can also browse more pet-welcoming rentals on homequarters.co.uk.
Frequently asked questions on Grocery shopping in London
Which borough is most expensive for grocery shopping in London?
Kensington & Chelsea ranks as the most expensive, with typical grocery costs between £310–£340 per person per month.
How much do groceries cost in Central London?
Residents in areas like Westminster, Camden and Fulham often spend 10–20% more than the London average — around £300/month.
Is East London cheaper for groceries?
Some areas like Bethnal Green offer good access to local markets, but others like Hackney are becoming more expensive due to gentrification.
Where can I live in London with affordable grocery access?
Greenwich, Leyton and parts of East London offer better access to Lidl, Asda and affordable markets — and Essential Living has developments in these locations.
