Living in Orpington, London
What this article covers
- What makes Orpington a good or bad place to live in relation to other cities and towns in the UK
- Pros and cons of living in Orpington for working professionals, students, and families
- Best and worst areas to live in Orpington
Orpington is a desirable commuter town situated in South East London within the London Borough of Bromley. It’s a blend of the city and suburban life, known for its relaxed atmosphere, open spaces and excellent amenities.
What makes Orpington a good place to live
Orpington is sought after by working professionals, families and students due to its excellent amenities, and schools. The town boasts a good number of shops, restaurants, and cafes as its major attractions. The open spaces and parks such as The Priory and Priory Gardens are perfect for family outings and recreational activities.
What makes Orpington a bad place to live
Though predominantly a safe area, certain parts of Orpington, notably St. Paul’s Cray and Orpington High Street, have reported higher incidences of crime. Longer commuting times to Central London may also detract from its appeal for some.
Buying and renting in Orpington
Average rent in Orpington is around £1,200 per month for a two-bedroom flat while the average property price is approximately £450,000, offering good value compared to much of Greater London.
Public transportation in Orpington
Orpington has strong public transport links. Orpington station provides fast regular services to London Bridge, Waterloo East, and Charing Cross. Its proximity to the M25 offers good road connections and it’s also less than an hour’s drive to Gatwick and Heathrow Airports.
Safety in Orpington
Orpington is generally safe and peaceful with a below average crime rate compared to other areas of London.
Most popular areas in Orpington
Farnborough (BR6)
Farnborough is popular for its local character, charming properties and good schools.
Chelsfield (BR6)
Chelsfield is known for its large homes, village atmosphere and easy access to stations.
Least popular areas in Orpington
St Paul’s Cray (BR5)
St Paul’s Cray is less popular due to the slightly higher crime rate and fewer amenities.
Cray Valley (BR5)
Cray Valley suffers from some negative perceptions despite its good transport links and amenities.
Share your thoughts