London is one of the world’s most iconic cities, but it's also notorious for being expensive. However, if you’re looking to move to the capital and are on a budget, there are still a few hidden gems that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a young professional, a student, or a family looking for more space, these are the cheapest places to rent in London in 2025.
Rental and Housing Market Trends from the Zoopla Report
According to Zoopla’s September 2025 Rental Market Report, conditions are the softest in five years (Zoopla). Annual rental growth across the UK has slowed to just 2.4%, with London recording some of the lowest levels of rental inflation at under 2%.
While supply has expanded by almost a fifth across the UK, London has has only seen a 6% rise in available rental homes making affordability still a challenge. Despite this, outer boroughs such as Sutton, Bexley, Croydon, and Barking and Dagenham continue to offer better value for renters priced out of central zones. With the Elizabeth Line boosting accessibility and regeneration schemes driving investment, these areas remain strong options for both tenants and buyers.
Top Affordable Neighbourhoods in London
With living costs still rising, finding affordable rent in London can feel daunting. However, Zoopla’s 2025 report highlights several boroughs where the cost of renting is more manageable without sacrificing lifestyle or amenities. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a renter seeking cheaper alternatives, or simply exploring new areas to live in the capital, this guide will take you through the top 10 most affordable neighbourhoods in London. From dynamic cultural scenes to quiet suburban areas, these locations offer a blend of affordability, community spirit, and easy access to everything London has to offer.
Top 10 Affordable Neighbourhoods to Rent and Buy in London (2025)
| Rank | Neighbourhood | Avg. 1 Bed Rental (PCM) | Avg. House Price (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sutton | £1,211 | £446,000 |
| 2 | Croydon | £1,226 | £400,000 |
| 3 | Barking and Dagenham | £1,345 | £361,000 |
| 4 | Havering | £1,197 | £440,000 |
| 5 | Lewisham | £1,427 | £490,000 |
| 6 | Hounslow | £1,533 | £536,000 |
| 7 | Enfield | £1,349 | £474,000 |
| 8 | Walthamstow | £1,379 | £513,000 |
| 9 | Bexley | £1,207 | £414,000 |
| 10 | Newham | £1,586 | £420,000 |
Data sourced from Zoopla, 2025 Rental Market Report & Office for National Statistics Housing Market Insights
This table provides a snapshot of the most affordable cities in London based on average rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
*Data sourced from Zoopla & Office for National StatisticsAs these cities maintain steady demand for housing, rental prices are expected to remain stable, offering excellent value for money compared to the rest of the UK.
Sutton
Known for safety, excellent schools and green spaces, Sutton attracts families looking for value. With strong transport links to Central London, it’s a great option for both renters and buyers seeking an affordable suburban lifestyle.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,400 per month
- Average House Price: £385,000
- Zone: 5
Croydon
A regeneration hotspot with strong transport links, arts venues, and affordable housing, Croydon is an attractive option for professionals. Read more in our guide to the Best Places to Live in South London.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,450 per month
- Average House Price: £420,000
- Zone: 5
Barking and Dagenham
Consistently one of London’s cheapest borough, Barking and Dagenham offers a mix of older homes and new-build apartments. The area is undergoing significant regeneration, making it an attractive option for those looking for long-term investment potential.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,450 per month
- Average House Price: £345,000
- Zone: 4
Havering (Romford)
Romford in Havering is a commuter's dream with the arrival of the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), offering quicker access to Central London. With reasonable house prices and rent, Havering is ideal for those wanting more space and affordability without sacrificing connectivity - discover more in our East London neighbourhood guide.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,470 per month
- Average House Price: £400,000
- Zone: 6
Lewisham
Popular with young professionals, Lewisham offers an urban lifestyle with plenty of green space and Zone 3 convenience. While prices have risen, it remains affordable compared to other inner-London areas, making it a good choice for renters and buyers alike.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,480 per month
- Average House Price: £455,000
- Zone: 3
Hounslow
Hounslow’s mix of affordability and convenience makes it a standout choice for renters in West London. With leafy parks, excellent transport links, and close proximity to Heathrow, it offers both calm surroundings and quick city access.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,500 per month
- Average House Price: £430,000
- Zone: 4
Enfield
Enfield provides spacious housing, good schools, and a strong community feel, perfect for those wanting more room to grow. Its peaceful residential charm, combined with lower prices, makes it a great alternative to costlier inner zones.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,500 per month
- Average House Price: £425,000
- Zone: 5
Walthamstow
Walthamstow offers a lively East London vibe with cafes, bars, and cultural spots alongside access to the Wetlands nature reserve. Although it’s slightly pricier, it offers great value for those looking for both city energy and outdoor escapes on their doorstep.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,510 per month
- Average House Price: £470,000
- Zone: 3
Bexley
Bexley is one of London’s most family-friendly boroughs, with affordable homes, excellent schools, and plenty of green parks. It’s well-connected yet peaceful, offering a quieter pace of life without leaving the capital.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,520 per month
- Average House Price: £390,000
- Zone: 5
Newham
Newham has transformed into a hub of modern living with Stratford’s shopping, the Olympic Park, and strong transport links. Although it’s the most expensive on this list, its excellent transport links and range of amenities make it a desirable place to live.
- Average Rent (1-bed apartment): £1,550 per month
- Average House Price: £465,000
- Zone: 2
Conclusion
Despite London’s reputation for high rents and property prices, there are still affordable neighbourhoods where you can find value for money. Boroughs like Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and Sutton continue to offer good value alongside reliable transport links. For those seeking balance between cost and lifestyle, these 10 boroughs highlight where London’s rental market still delivers relative affordability.
For more guides on London living, visit Homequarters.co.uk and explore our own Essential Living neighbourhood guides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which area in London has the lowest rent?
Barking and Dagenham remains the most affordable borough for renters, with average one-bed rents at around £1,450 PCM.
Where can I find affordable rent near central London?
Lewisham, Waltham Forest, and Redbridge offer more affordable rents with quick commutes into the City and Canary Wharf.
What’s the cheapest zone to live in London?
Zones 4-6 generally offer the most affordable rent prices, but proximity to good transport links means you can still get into the city easily.
Has the Elizabeth Line impacted rental affordability?
Yes. Areas like Ilford (Redbridge) and Romford (Havering) have seen increased demand thanks to faster commutes, though they remain affordable compared to inner London.
