15 Best Boroughs In London: Where Comfort Meets Culture

Did you know London has been named the best city to live in for the eighth year in a row? With cool vibes and iconic red double-decker buses, London is a dream destination for many students. Some of these students come from across the world and rush to the capital city of the United Kingdom to pursue their undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees, and PhDs at some of the best universities in the world. However, the high cost of living is one of the factors that keep bugging students! Thank heavens you can find affordable accommodations in the best boroughs in London. Of course, finding your home away from the total 32 boroughs is a challenge! Don’t worry; we will make your life easy with a list of London boroughs. We will also touch upon what the boroughs are and why they are important to the city. So, let’s get started, shall we? 

What is a Borough in London? 

London boroughs play a major role in the city. Think of a borough as a slice of administrative territory found in different English-speaking countries. Originally, the word "borough" referred to a self-governing town with walls around it, but in reality, how it's used officially can be quite different from place to place. In London, These boroughs are responsible for things like local services, libraries, and parks.

Why are Boroughs Important in London? 

The city of London is divided into 32 districts known as boroughs. These different boroughs in London were established on April 1, 1965. A separate council administers each borough. Each borough has distinctiveness, so knowing the different locations is crucial to making a more appropriate decision about where you wish to live and study. For example, Islington is considered one of the best London boroughs. Thus, looking for accommodation in Islington while relocating to London would be prudent. Here are a few reasons why boroughs are essential to the Swinging City:

1. Local Governance: Think of boroughs as having their own mini-governments or councils. These local authorities handle issues specific to their area, which means decisions and solutions are more in tune with what's happening on the ground.

2. Service Delivery: When it comes to services like safety, education, sanitation, and healthcare, boroughs make sure everything runs smoothly. They can customise services to suit the unique needs of each area.

3. Community Representation: Boroughs give folks a voice right in their backyard. Residents can express their concerns and opinions at a local level, making sure that what makes their neighbourhoods special is taken into account.

4. Urban Planning: Boroughs are like the architects of a city. They're essential for planning and developing different parts of the city. This means they can create unique plans to accommodate growth, manage resources, and improve infrastructure for each area.

5. Cultural and Historical Significance: Many boroughs have their own distinct culture and history, adding to the tapestry of a city's rich diversity.

6. Efficient Resource Allocation: By breaking a city into smaller units, boroughs make it easier to manage resources and budgets more efficiently. This means problems can be addressed with a sharper focus.

Best Inner London Boroughs

Inner borough refers to a group of the best boroughs in London that are situated in the central part of the city. They are more densely populated and have more commercial, cultural, and historic landmarks. Some of them are the most diverse boroughs in London, known for their vibrant energy and busy streets. The Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, and St. Paul's Cathedral are situated in the inner boroughs. The outer boroughs are residential and suburban, while the inner boroughs have an urban excitement and historical charm that draws millions of visitors worldwide each year. The inner boroughs are a must-visit destination for people wanting to experience the best that London has to offer.

1. City of Westminster

Avg Score: 4.60‍

Avg Cost of Living: £4,940-£5,500/student

Student Accommodation: Wellington Lodge & Scape Mile End

Top Universities: University of Westminster (Regent Campus) and University of Westminster (Cavendish Campus)‍

Best at: Exploring iconic landmarks and Indulging in fine dining experiences‍

Worst at: Finding quiet and peaceful spots‍

Best Suited for History enthusiasts, food connoisseurs, and culture seekers

Crime Rate: 298 crimes per 1,000 people 

The City of Westminster, like the City of London, was established in 1965 and now has both city and best london boroughs status. Located in the west of the City of London and north of the River Thames, it’s one of the best boroughs in London, owing to its famous West End theatre district and a portion of Camden. London Borough of Westminster has plenty to offer, including Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, as well as some of London's top shopping districts, like Covent Garden, Soho, and Carnaby Street. As students can enjoy street shopping, musicals, and plays and visit palaces, The City of Westminister is one of the best boroughs in London.

Pros of staying in Westminster

• The Borough of Westminster is home to classic London landmarks, like Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. 
• You can visit two renowned restaurants: Gordon Ramsay's Petrus and Duck & Waffle.  

Con(s) of staying in Westminster

• The Westminster area is a relatively very crowded area; there is a lot of in and out of people during the day and night time.

2. Southwark

Avg Score: 4.50‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,100-£1,800/student‍

Student Accommodation: Go Britanya Mile End Canalside & iQ East Court‍

Top Universities: King's College London - Guy's Campus, London School of Commerce and Kaplan International College‍

Best at: Experiencing vibrant street life and sampling diverse cuisines‍

Worst at: Finding expansive green spaces‍

Best Suited for: Art and culture enthusiasts, food lovers, and nightlife seekers

Crime Rate: 108 crimes per 1,000 people 

Situated in southern London, the London Borough of Southwark is connected to the best London boroughs – Hamlets and the City of London by bridges across the Thames. Southwark London Borough Council manages the area, which is home to numerous well-known sites, including Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market, Tate Modern, and the Imperial War Museum. The Shard and Borough Market offer a delightful gastronomic journey with their diverse culinary offerings. Students must visit the world-famous Tower Bridge. This inner-best London borough is surely one of the best in the city.

Pros of staying in Southwark 

• Southwark hosts some of the best tourist attractions in London, such as the Shards, London Bridge, Tower Bridge, and Shakespeare Globe.
• Amongst all the boroughs in London, Southwark has one of the best and buzzing views of London. 

Con(s) of staying in Southwark

• Just like Camden, Southwark is also a very noisy neighbourhood because of the constant traffic in the area

3. Hackney

Avg score: 4.41‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,300-£1,500/student‍

Student Accommodation: Scape Canada Water, iQ Will Wyatt Court & Chapter Kings Cross‍

Top Universities: Loughborough University (London campus), Queen Mary University of London (Mile End) and Queen Mary University (Whitechapel) Glasgow ‍

Best at: Embracing creativity and innovation and discovering hidden gems‍

Worst at: Providing easy access to major tourist attractions‍

Best Suited for: Artists and creatives, hipsters and trendsetters, and alternative fashion enthusiasts 

Crime Rate: 108 crimes per 1,000 people 

The London Borough of Hackney, named for its most prominent area, is divided into two parts of London. The northwest half of one of the best boroughs in London falls under the jurisdiction of North London, and the southern and eastern parts fall under the jurisdiction of East London. Though included in inner boroughs, Stoke Newington and Shoreditch (which are the two best boroughs in London) are within Hackney. The Columbia Road Flower Market is well-known in Hackney. Students can shop at thrift stores, walk along Regents Canal in Hackney, and enjoy tranquil parks such as London Fields. Pidgin and Climpson's Arch are some of the famous restaurants out there. They may enjoy a stunning perspective of the city from St. Augustine's Tower. 

Pros of staying in Hackney

• Hackney is one of the boroughs in London with many hangout spots. On weekends, you can chill at a coffee shop, vegan restaurants, or craft beer bars.
• You can visit Sutton House to discover more about the history of London.

Con(s) of staying in Hackney

• Despite being one of the best boroughs in London for shopping and hangout spots, Hackney is not served by the tube, making commuting inconvenient.

4. Camden

Avg Score: 4‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,900-£2,100/student‍

Student Accommodation: Goldsmiths House, The Stay Club Camden & AXO Camden‍

Top Universities: Royal Veterinary College, European Business School and University of London‍

Best at: Experiencing alternative music and culture and Shopping for quirky and unique items‍

Worst at: Providing tranquil spaces‍

Best suited for: Music lovers, vintage fashion enthusiasts, and alternative lifestyle seekers

‍Crime Rate: 132 crimes per 1,000 people 

The London Borough of Camden, where the London Zoo is located, was named in 1795 in honour of Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden. It is the seventh-smallest and one of the best boroughs in London, with an 11% student population. This is also one of the West London boroughs that is well-known for its colourful street art and large market. From food markets to The Blue Kitchen to Gilgamesh, it has become one of the best boroughs in London for many reasons. Amy Winehouse, a musician who resided in Camden, has a statue in the city.  

 Pros of staying in Camden

• Camden is popular as one of the best boroughs in London for nightclub activities, with more than 200+ chic clubs around the area. 
• As one of the top boroughs in London for young professionals, Camden thrives with live performances and entertainment attractions. 

Con(s) of staying in Camden 

• Even though Camden is one of the best boroughs in London, it wouldn’t be the best place to stay if you like living in quieter areas.

5. Greenwich

Avg Score: 4.31‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,100-£1,800/student‍

Student Accommodation: The Cube Greenwich, iQ Flinders House & Go Britanya Greenwich Residence

Top Universities: University of Greenwich, University of Sunderland and Goldsmiths (University of London)‍

Best at: Discovering maritime history and Enjoying panoramic views of London‍

Worst at: Providing a bustling nightlife scene‍

Best Suited for: History buffs, nature lovers & families seeking a peaceful retreat‍

Crime Rate: 91 crimes per 1,000 people 

The Royal Greenwich Borough in London, formed by combining the two metropolitan municipalities of Greenwich and Woolwich. It is one of the best boroughs in London, notable for the Greenwich Prime Meridian and the origin of the name Greenwich Mean Time. Greenwich was designated a Royal Borough in 2012 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. In this best borough to live in London, you will find students from diverse backgrounds. It is also the 13th largest borough, renowned for Old Brewery, Craft London, delectable cuisine, and stunning views of the river. You can visit the Greenwich Observatory, museums, architecture, and beautiful streets.

 Pros of staying in Greenwich

• Compared to other parts of the city, Greenwich is one of the best boroughs in London for students who want to experience the urban and rural lifestyle. 
• Greenwich has no shortage of attractions, including the Royal Observatory Greenwich,  Royal Greenwich Park, the National Maritime Museum, etc.  

Con(s) of staying in Greenwich

• Though Greenwich is one of the top boroughs in London, the Docklands Light Railway is not as good as the London Tube.

6. Hammersmith and Fulham

Avg Score: 4.11‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,700 - £2,400/student‍

Student Accommodation: Fulham Palace Studios & Vita Student Lewisham Exchange‍

Top Universities: BIMM and South Thames College‍

Best at: Enjoying riverside walks and Attending live performances‍

Worst at: Providing a vibrant shopping scene‍

Best Suited for: Nature enthusiasts, theatre and music lovers & peaceful retreat seekers

Crime Rate: 106 crimes per 1,000 people 

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham is located in both southwest and western London. It is one of the best boroughs in London for being home to three football clubs: Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, and Chelsea. Hammersmith and Fulham are well-known central London transport hubs and boroughs. It is West London's most important business and employment district and is famous for the Hammersmith Bridge over the Thames. River Cafe and The River House restaurants offer a perfect blend of excellent food and a pleasant ambience. 

Pros of staying in Hammersmith and Fulham 

• Being one of the best London boroughs, Hammersmith and Fulham is famous for its shopping district, similar to Hackney, with numerous designer and department stores.
• Some of the attractions are King Street, Hammersmith Broadway, Shopping Centres, Ravenscourt Park, Fulham Market Hall, and Fulham Palace Museum, making it one of the top boroughs in London.

Con(s) of staying in Hammersmith and Fulham 

• Hammersmith and Fulham, one of the best London boroughs, is near the airport. This would be a major concern in terms of noise pollution. 

7. Islington

Avg Score: 4.41‍

Avg Cost of Living: £2,000-2,250/student‍

Student Accommodation: Chapter Islington, Scape Shoreditch & iQ Shoreditch‍

Top Universities: Université Paris-Dauphine (London campus), City University of London and London Metropolitan University‍

Best at: Exploring trendy bars and restaurants and enjoying cultural performances‍

Worst at: Offering extensive green spaces‍

Best Suited for: Food enthusiasts, theatre and dance lovers & fashionistas

Crime Rate: 116 crimes per 1,000 people 

Islington, the second-smallest inner and one of the best London boroughs,  encompasses a significant portion of the city centre. The Islington Borough of London is the home of Arsenal Football Club, one of England's most successful clubs, and the Emirates Stadium, one of the best stadiums in the UK. In the heart of Kings Cross, enjoy and see the famous Emirates Museum, Charterhouse, and London Canal Museum. You can visit Ottolenghi and The Gate, which has established innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes to cater to your diverse tastes. With over 70 market stalls and an international array of food to taste, the Cally Festival provides a picture of London's most diverse, making it one of the best boroughs in London.

Pros of staying in Islington

• Islington is one of the best boroughs in London for its culinary scene; it also has some of the best restaurants in London like Turkish, Thai, Mediterranean, etc.
• Being one of the best London boroughs for the art scene, you can watch performances at Sadler's Wells Theatre, the Almeida Theatre, and the Union Chapel Church. 

Con(s) of staying in Islington

• The rents in Islington are skyrocketing high as compared to other boroughs in London.

8. Kensington and Chelsea

Avg Score: 4.73‍

Avg Cost of Living: £3,000 - £3,300‍

Student Accommodation: Louise House, Yugo The Curve & Vauxhall Bridge Road

‍Top Universities: Richmond University (Kensington Campus), Royal College of Art, Royal College of Music and Imperial College London‍

Best at: Experiencing luxury and sophistication and exploring art and culture‍

Worst at: Catering to budget-conscious travellers‍

Best Suited for: Luxury seekers, art and design enthusiasts & upscale shoppers

Crime Rate: 132 crimes per 1,000 people 

The London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is the second-smallest and one of the top London boroughs, yet it is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and strategic location. Notting Hill, one of the most famous and picturesque neighbourhoods in London, is located in the Borough's southwest corner and is home to Portobello Road and the Notting Hill Carnival. Dishoom and The Ivy Chelsea Garden restaurants offer a luxurious dining experience in stylish settings. One of the top ranking London boroughs, it is located to the west of the City of Westminster, in the heart of modern London.  

Pros of staying in Kensington and Chelsea

• Kensington and Chelsea is a green neighbourhood with many gardens, including Hyde Park, one of the best parks in London. 
• This area is also known to be one of the safest boroughs in London. 

Con(s) of staying in Kensington and Chelsea

• Though Kensington and Chelsea is one of the best boroughs in London, the densely populated area is criticised for its air pollution and road traffic.

Best Outer London Boroughs

Outer boroughs refer to the boroughs located on the outskirts of the city. They are away from the city centre and have a residential feel, with larger houses, more green spaces, and a quieter pace of life. Compared to the inner boroughs, outer boroughs are affordable, making them popular with families and young professionals looking for space and better value for their money. They have excellent transport links, with regular trains, buses, and underground services connecting them to the rest of the city.

9. Barking and Dagenham

Avg Score: 3.88‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,200 - £1,400/student‍

Student Accommodation: The Valentine & London Stratford‍

Top Universities: Newham College (East Ham Campus)‍

Best at: Embracing community spirit and exploring local heritage‍

Worst at: Offering a wide range of entertainment options‍

Best Suited for: Families seeking a friendly environment, history enthusiasts & outdoor enthusiasts‍

Crime Rate: 93 crimes per 1,000 people 

Barking and Dagenham were formed by combining the two old municipal boroughs of Barking and Dagenham. It is located to the east of Central London as an outlying of the best boroughs in London. The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham was one of the six best boroughs in London to host the 2012 Summer Olympics. The southern part of the borough is part of the Thames Gateway's London Riverside sector. Students can find many prestigious educational institutions, restaurants, green spaces, and historical museums in London to spend their leisure time. You can also visit The Boat House Cafe and The Pipe Major for a delightful dining experience. 

Pros of staying in Barking and Dagenham

• Barking and Dagenham are said to have some of the most affordable homes to rent in London City.
• The culture of Barking and Dagenham is vibrant, and its nightlife is thriving, making it one of the best boroughs in London. 

Con(s) of staying in Barking and Dagenham

• As Barking is a mid-suburban area, it might not be the best place to live if you want to live around the central area. 

10. Croydon

Avg Score: 4.40‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,000 - £1,200/student ‍

Student Accommodations: Chancery Lane & The Lincoln's Inn‍

Top Universities: BPP University‍

Best at: Discovering a thriving street culture and local history‍

Worst at: Providing a centralised shopping district‍

Best Suited for: Street art enthusiasts, history buffs & nature lovers

Crime Rate: 38.1 crimes per 1,000 people

The historic town of Croydon, which the Anglo-Saxons referred to as Crogdene or Croindone in the eighth century, is the inspiration for the best borough in London of Croydon. The site has been occupied since prehistoric times, according to evidence. It is the fifth-largest borough in London. Croydon Airport, London's major airport, was previously located in the borough but was closed in 1959 due to a shortage of area in the surrounding region. Boxpark and Bagattis venues offer a variety of food options and a lively atmosphere. As Heathrow Airport in London has taken its position, Croydon Airport's original facility is now a part office, half a tourist attraction.

Pros of staying in Croydon

• Croydon is a place that has a lot of greenery and good places to relax. 
• The London Borough of Croydon has a good range of shops, restaurants, and other leisure activity spots.

Con(s) of staying in Croydon

• Croydon is unfortunately a bit far away from London, even though it is a part of the best boroughs in London. 

11. Ealing

Avg Score: 4.24‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,400 - £1,700/student ‍

Student Accommodations: The Cube Ealing, Chapter Ealing & Albany Residences‍

Top Universities: University of West London and University of West London (Ealing Campus)‍

Best at: Exploring green spaces and local community events‍

Worst at: Providing a vibrant nightlife scene‍

Best Suited for: Nature enthusiasts, families seeking a peaceful environment & community-oriented individuals

Crime Rate: 85 crimes per 1,000 people 

The London Borough of Ealing is situated in West London and includes seven towns: Acton, Ealing, Greenford, Hanwell, Northolt, Perivale, and Southall. It is the third-largest and one of the best boroughs in London. The Drayton Court and Charlotte's Place restaurants offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Due to its parks and tree-lined streets, Ealing has long been renowned as the Queen of the Suburbs. The Japanese School in London is an Acton, Ealing-based Japanese international school.

Pros of staying in Ealing

• If you are looking for a comfortable and laid-back lifestyle, then this is the best London borough for you. 
• Ealing is a socialising spot! You will find a lot of places like a bar, restaurant, and a string of cafes to hang out and meet with your friends

Con(s) of staying in Ealing

• As Ealing is in Zone 3, going to central London can indeed be a difficult task.

12. Harrow

Avg Score: 4.40‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,200-£1,700/student ‍

Student Accommodation: Wood Green Hall, Luna, Hatfield & iQ The Pad‍

Top Universities: University of Westminster Harrow Campus and London School of Theology‍

Best at: Experiencing scenic views and traditional English pubs‍

Worst at: Offering a bustling city atmosphere‍

Best Suited for: Nature lovers, pub enthusiasts & academics

Crime Rate: 60 crimes per 1,000 people 

Harrow is London's 12th-largest outer borough and Middlesex's largest local government area. It may be the only best London borough whose boundaries did not change as it transitioned from a municipal borough to a borough. It has a residential feel, with some countryside on the northern outskirts. When visiting Harrow, dine at the famous The White Horse and The Old Etonian restaurants. Being one of the best boroughs in London, Harrow was traditionally in the heart of "Metro-land," As a result, it is exceptionally well served by the use of London Underground compared to other boroughs in Outer London.

Pros of staying in Harrow 

• The London Borough of Harrow has a good set of amenities, such as green spaces and shopping centres. 
• Central London is easier to access, making Harrow one of the desirable and best London boroughs. 

Con(s) of staying in Harrow 

• The air quality may be a challenge if you are considering this borough. 

13. Hounslow

Avg Score: 4.56‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1300-£1,400/student ‍

Student Accommodation: Guilden Village & Straits Garden‍

Top Universities: St Mary's University and Richmond University‍

Best at: Exploring diverse cuisines & cultural diversity‍

Worst at: Providing extensive recreational spaces‍

Best Suited for: Food enthusiasts, shoppers seeking a multicultural experience & business travellers

Crime Rate: 88 crimes per 1,000 people 

Hounslow is a West London borough founded in 1965 and encompassed three former Middlesex council areas. Hounslow is a borough in Western London that is part of the outer zones of London. Chiswick, Brentford, Isleworth, Hounslow, and Feltham are the five principal towns in the London Borough of Hounslow. Osterley Park Hotel offers the perfect culinary dining experience, making it one of the best boroughs in London. The London Museum of Water and Steam and other attractions are located in the borough. The River Thames runs through Hounslow and Richmond-upon-Thames, forming a natural barrier. 

Pros of staying in Hounslow

• Hounslow is one of the most well-connected and the best boroughs in London. 
• It is also known to have one of the most affordable rental spaces all over London. 

Con(s) of staying in Hounslow

• Though considered one of the best boroughs in London, Hounslow is overtly populated. 

14. Kingston upon Thames

Avg Score: 4.54‍

Avg Cost of Living: £1,150-£1,500/student‍

Student Accommodations: Emily Bowes Court & Drapery Place‍

Top Universities: Kingston University and Kingston Business School‍

Best at: Exploring riverside walks and local markets‍

Worst at: Providing a bustling nightlife scene‍

Best Suited for: Nature lovers, history buffs & families seeking a relaxed atmosphere

Crime Rate: 66 crimes per 1,000 people 

It is the oldest borough in London, formerly known as the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. The location was previously used for Anglo-Saxon monarch coronations, and there is evidence of a church in the region that was destroyed by Vikings in 1009 AD. The local education authority is responsible for education in the borough. Plus, this may be the best borough to live in London, with proximity to dining at The Boaters Inn and Côte Brasserie. 

Pros of staying in Kingston upon Thames

• There are numerous attractions in and around Kingston, ranging from natural and historical sites to entertainment parks.  
•  The low crime rate and thriving student scene are two factors that make Kingston one of the best boroughs in London. 

Con(s) of staying in Kingston upon Thames

• The rent can be a little more expensive as compared to other nicest boroughs in London.

15. Richmond upon Thames

Avg Score: 4.48‍

Avg Cost of Living: £2000- £2,200/student‍

Student Accommodations: Chapter Portobello, Mannequin House & iQ Tufnell House‍

Top Universities: Richmond University, University of West London (Brentford Campus) and Richmond University (Kensington Campus)‍

Best at: Immersing in scenic landscapes, history and heritage‍

Worst at: Offering a bustling city atmosphere

‍Best suited for: Nature enthusiasts, history and architecture lovers & high-end shoppers

Crime Rate: 60 crimes per 1,000 people 

Richmond upon Thames is the only borough in London located on both banks of the River Thames and is considered an outer borough. In terms of area, it is the 8th largest and best borough in London. Be sure to visit The Bingham Restaurant and Gaucho Richmond for a memorable dining experience! Richmond upon Thames is home to several well-known attractions, including Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens. It's worth noting that half of the borough is covered in gorgeous parkland. 

Pros of staying in Richmond upon Thames

• The London Borough of Richmond upon Thames is an ideal place to live, with thriving high-end streets, extensive transportation connectivity, and ample green spaces
• Richmond Park, Bushy Park, and Old Deer Park are must-visit parks situated nearby. 

Con(s) of staying in Richmond upon Thames

• Often considered one of the best boroughs in London, the area does not offer inclusivity and diversity in the community. 

So, are you ready to take the plunge and move to one of the best boroughs in London? We know sifting through endless information can be overwhelming. Whether you are a student in London or soon will be one, amber can help you find the perfect spot within your budget. From ensuites, studios, to shared apartments, the best student accommodation in London is at your fingertips now. Not only will you find your perfect pad in the best localities for students, but also in the affordable and best boroughs in London. So, bookmark this guide and dive deeper!