Living in Kingston upon Thames, London
What this article covers
- What makes Kingston upon Thames a good or bad place to live in relation to other cities and towns in the UK
- Pros and cons of living in Kingston upon Thames for working professionals, students, and families
- Best and worst areas to live in Kingston upon Thames
Kingston upon Thames, frequently mentioned simply as ‘Kingston’, is a vibrant and welcoming district located in the Greater London area. Known for its scenic views and rich history, Kingston’s intrinsic riverside charm, excellent educational institutions, and close-knit community have contributed to its steady popularity over the years.
What makes Kingston a good place to live
Kingston boasts a harmonious blend of city life and nature’s tranquility. It has an abundance of green spaces, ideal for outdoor activities and family outings. With its vibrant arts scene and festivals, along with its reputable schools and universities, it’s an appealing place for families, students, and working professionals. Its bustling shopping district, littered with a mix of high street and independent retailers, adds extra appeal.
What makes Kingston a bad place to live
Despite the many benefits, living in Kingston isn’t without its drawbacks. The cost of living can be quite high with property prices generally on the expensive side. Furthermore, traffic can get congested during peak hours, particularly in the town center.
Buying and renting in Kingston
Average rental costs in Kingston are around £1,300 per month for flats and £2,500 for houses. Buying a property can be quite expensive with the median house price reported at around £437,600.
Public transportation in Kingston
Kingston is well-served by public transportation. The area is accessible through trains and bus routes that connect it seamlessly to central London. Riverboats offer a unique and scenic commuting option.
Safety in Kingston
Kingston is generally considered a safe area with crime rates below the national average. However, like with any urban area, incidences of pickpocketing and vehicle crime do occur.
Most popular areas in Kingston
North Kingston (KT2)
Placed adjacent to the idyllic Richmond Park, North Kingston is famous for its excellent schools and beautiful family homes.
Kingston Town (KT1)
This is the heart of all activity with an active market, a gamut of retailers, plentiful dining options, and scenic river views.
Least popular areas in Kingston
New Malden (KT3)
Despite being a decent residential area, it is less popular due to its lack of character compared to the other Kingston postcodes.
Tolworth (KT6)
A suburban area which is less sought-after due to its geographical distance from Kingston centre and lesser amenities when compared with other areas.
Share your thoughts