Best areas to live in London?

Expert Info

Posted by

on 7 Feb 2015

Hi all. I'm an American living in China and it looks like the next stop is London. Im a stay at home dad with a 5 year old and soon to be 4 year old who are both going to be attending school. My wife's office will be located at canary wharf. We're looking for the better neighborhoods and schools that won't be too far of a trek to/from the office for my wife. Maybe 20/30 mins. Budget is on the higher end so that's less of a concern than safety and good schools for us. We know next to nothing about London so any help is appreciated! Thank you.

Anonymous (not verified) on 10 Mar 2015 - 12:44

Hi St Johns Wood is THE option for you. It is also where I live and work as a property finder. St Johns Wood is on the Jubilee tube line which is the same line as Canary Wharf, and is only about 30 mins on this direct line. I am bringing up my young children here and the area is brimming with parks, zoos and children activities/ camps/ clubs etc. There is an excellent library in the high street area and there are public gyms and pools a walking distance away. The American School is located here and this is one of the most exclusive and "nice" areas of London. The West End with its shops is about 10 minutes away. Talk to me or visit my website and I am happy to give you more info. http://www.simmaproperties.co.uk Judith

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Apr 2015 - 15:02

Hi. As you might see from the post in this line, I am a property finder in St Johns Wood. That sounds like a good area for you and there are places here which would fit your budget - just. Most private homes have their own washing machines and sometimes washer/ dryers or dryers too. Any area further out of London and things are cheaper, so you will get more for your money, but then there is a commute. You may not have to go that much further out for a significant reduction in price. But if you go further in to town, it may be easier for your work commute but I would not recommend it for family living and the cost can be greater. Judith http://www.simmaproperties.co.uk

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Apr 2015 - 13:46

We are moving to London, my children will likely going to ASL. Everyone we've talked to says St. Johns Wood is the way to go. However, if there was another option (close into the city and not too far from the school) what would you consider? We have a 3 and 7 year old. As true Americans we would like something with a bit of space. Budget around $6500 USD per month. Also, this may be a crazy question, but do any of these homes offer full washer and dryers?

Anonymous (not verified) on 27 Apr 2015 - 10:33

Hi - London is so big it's difficult to list too many options. Many Americans choose to live centrally, and this is affordable in your budget ($6500pm). South Kensington, Chelsea, Notting Hill, Holland Park... Of course you'll get more space if you go further out. Clapham has some really nice generously sized houses, and it 35 mins by tube/train from Canary Wharf. I suggest you search on a property site like rightmove.com and you'll get a very good idea on what you can get for your money . Good luck.

Anonymous (not verified) on 27 Apr 2015 - 10:54

Hi. I note the comments above, but if the children have a place at ASL in St John's Wood, the areas mentioned in Mr Pitman's post are quite far away and not on direct public transport lines with St John's Wood. If St Johns Wood does not offer what you would like for your budget, I would recommend Swiss Cottage, South Hampstead or West Hampstead, which are all very close by and can be accesses directly via a few stops in the Jubilee underground train.Judith https://www.simmaproperties.co.uk

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Global Health Insurance.

Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider.

Get a quote from Cigna Global - 20% off

Moving Internationally?

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.

Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.

Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!