Living in Southwark, London
What this article covers
- What makes Southwark a good or bad place to live in relation to other cities and towns in the UK
- Pros and cons of living in Southwark for working professionals, students, and families
- Best and worst areas to live in Southwark
Southwark, situated on the south bank of the River Thames in central London, is a vibrant, multicultural district known for its remarkable history, diverse culture and bustling lifestyle.
What makes Southwark a good place to live
This borough offers the mixture of new and old, with historic attractions alongside bustling markets like Borough Market, and modern amenities such as the Shard. With a variety of eating establishments, shopping areas, and cultural offerings, Southwark accommodates different lifestyles making it a suitable place for working professionals, families, and students alike.
What makes Southwark a bad place to live
Despite its many charms, living in Southwark can have its downsides. Higher living costs and noise pollution due to its central location and high density can affect the quality of life.
Buying and renting in Southwark
The average rental cost for a 1-bedroom apartment in Southwark ranges from £1500-£2000 per month. Buying property comes with a higher price tag, with the median house price around £500,000, significantly higher than the national average.
Public transportation in Southwark
It boasts excellent transport links with key transport hubs such as London Bridge Station and Waterloo providing plentiful options for in-city and out-city travel. There’s also easy access to London City Airport for international flights.
Safety in Southwark
In terms of safety, although improvements have been made in recent years, Southwark still experiences higher crime rates compared to some of London’s other boroughs.
Most popular areas in Southwark
Borough (SE1)
Known for its close proximity to the city and famous Borough Market, this area is especially popular among food lovers and city workers.
Dulwich (SE21)
Affluent and serene, Dulwich is popular for its village feel, high-end boutiques, and green spaces.
Least popular areas in Southwark
Peckham (SE15)
Even though it has been dubbed the ‘new Shoreditch’ due to its emerging creative scene, areas of Peckham still struggle with a reputation for high crime rates.
Walworth (SE17)
Despite its location and lower housing costs, Walworth materials with lack of green spaces and higher crime rates make it less attractive.
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