Living in Westminster, London
What this article covers
- What makes Westminster a good or bad place to live in relation to other cities and towns in the UK
- Pros and cons of living in Westminster for working professionals, students, and families
- Best and worst areas to live in Westminster
Westminster is a bustling area of Central London, nestled against the north bank of the River Thames. Officially called the City of Westminster, this region is renowned for its historic value as the home of the British government.
What makes Westminster a good place to live
From direct access to iconic spots such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Westminster Abbey, to the thriving food, art, and culture scene, there’s no denying that Westminster carries a certain charm. The area is highly suitable for working professionals, families, and students, offering beautiful parks, top-notch schools, and universities, along with a network of businesses and offices.
What makes Westminster a bad place to live
However, living in Westminster can be quite expensive due to its high real estate prices and cost of living. The crowd and noise due to its popularity among tourists can also be daunting to some residents.
Buying and renting in Westminster
The average property cost in Westminster is around £1.2 million and rentals can cost upwards of £2,700 per month.
Public transportation in Westminster
As for public transportation, Westminster is served by various Tube stations including Westminster, St. James’s Park, and Victoria. It is also in close proximity to major transport hubs such as Victoria Station and Waterloo Station, and airports including Heathrow and Gatwick.
Safety in Westminster
Westminster boasts a generally safe environment. However, like any city, it advises its residents and visitors to always remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
Most popular areas in Westminster
Belgravia (SW1X)
Belgravia is highly popular due to its luxury residential properties and its tranquil location, with elegant garden squares.
St. James’s (SW1A)
St. James’s is cherished for its close proximity to royal palaces and the city’s best-known park, making it popular among families and working professionals.
Least popular areas in Westminster
Pimlico (SW1V)
Pimlico, despite its idyllic Regency-style homes and riverside location, is less desired due to it being less commercial and offering fewer local amenities.
Victoria (SW1V)
Victoria is less preferred for living due to the traffic congestion and over-crowdedness owing to its major transport hub.
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