Living in Charing Cross, London

Charing Cross, located in Greater London, boasts a rich cultural history coupled with modern conveniences, making it a desirable place to live.

Pros and Cons for Families and Professionals

For families, there is an abundance of top-tier schools, making it an appealing option for those with children. However, the high cost of living could be a deterrent. Working professionals would appreciate the fact that Charing Cross is regarded as the official centre of London, hence there are ample job opportunities. The crowded urban environment, however, might not appeal to everyone’s taste.

Housing Costs

Average rental prices in Charing Cross are significantly higher compared to other parts of the UK, with a one-bedroom flat typically costing around £2,000 per month. Buying a property is also expensive, with the average house price around £1.1 million.

Transportation

Charing Cross is served by an efficient public transportation system, including the Underground, buses, and trains making commuting relatively easy.

Safety

While Charing Cross is generally considered safe, like any metropolitan area, it does have incidents of crime. Therefore, awareness of one’s surroundings is always advised.

In conclusion, living in Charing Cross offers numerous amenities and opportunities but comes with a high cost of living and city-specific challenges.

Most popular areas

Covent Garden (WC2E)

Covent Garden is undeniably popular due to its charming atmosphere, historic market, trendy boutiques, and high-end designer shops. The area also boasts a Picasso-inspired outdoor space, countless restaurants, and the famous Royal Opera House.

Soho (W1D)

Soho is highly sought-after due to its eclectic vibe and rich history. It’s a hub for the film and television industries, has many chic restaurants and boutiques, and is also the beating heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene.

Leicester Square (WC2H)

Living in Leicester Square means being at the heart of London’s energetic cultural and entertainment scene. The area is famous for its high-profile film premieres, its flagship stores, the central park area, and the cultural events frequently held here.

Least popular areas

King’s Cross (WC1H)

Despite its transformation with new developments, some people still perceive King’s Cross as a less attractive area because of its former reputation as a run-down, industrial district. It also experiences higher than average traffic due to its major transport hub.

Bloomsbury (WC1B)

While Bloomsbury is home to many cultural attractions and educational institutions, it’s quieter residential tone and lack of shopping, dining, and nightlife options compared to other central London areas make it less popular.

Holborn (WC1V)

Often considered a ‘pass through’ area, Holborn may not be as popular for residing due to its blend of commercial and residential properties. Despite its central location, it lacks the quintessentially ‘British’ feel of its neighboring areas.

Nearby Cities and Towns

• London, Inner London
• St Martin in the Fields, Inner London
• Whitehall, Inner London