Top 15 Best Places to Live in South London
- Sean
- 11 hours ago
- 13 min read
Planning on Making a Move? Discover the Best Places to Live in South London
South London offers a vibrant and diverse lifestyle, blending leafy suburban neighbourhoods with bustling town centres, excellent transport links, and access to some of the capital’s most attractive green spaces. Whether you are drawn to the family-friendly boroughs or seeking the lively cultural hubs, South London has something to offer every type of mover.
At Pinnacle Removals & Storage, we know that moving house isn’t just about logistics – it’s about starting a new chapter. With over 50 years of combined experience, our professional and friendly team is here to take the stress out of your relocation. We provide expert, tailored services designed to make your move into your new South London home as smooth and seamless as possible.
Through our removals depot in Hackbridge, we are perfectly placed to support moves throughout South London and into surrounding areas. Whether you're relocating to Wimbledon, Dulwich, Clapham, or any of the charming towns and villages across the boroughs of Sutton, our local presence means we can offer quick, flexible, and reliable removals to meet your individual needs.
With our modern fleet of GPS-tracked vehicles and trusted team of trained professionals, Pinnacle Removals guarantees a secure and hassle-free experience from your initial enquiry through to final delivery, guided every step of the way by our experienced Move Coordinators.
Read on to discover some of the best places to live in South London, and let Pinnacle Removals help you make your move with confidence.
Clapham: South London's Social Hotspot
If you are looking for a part of South London that appeals to professionals looking to base themselves close enough to work, then Clapham could be a great choice for you. Clapham is known to be an affluent area and is somewhere that you will find a variety of places to eat and also places to socialise with friends during the evening.
It also boasts Clapham Common, which is a sprawling green space at the heart of the neighbourhood. This brings balance with space for jogging, picnics, sports, and open-air events. The area’s handsome Georgian and Victorian terraces add to its charm, while a lively community atmosphere keeps things grounded.
Clapham benefits from excellent transport connections, with three Underground stations (Clapham North, Clapham Common, and Clapham South), plus mainline rail services from Clapham High Street and Clapham Junction, which is one of the UK’s busiest rail hubs. Average property prices are around £770,000.
Brixton: The Cultural Powerhouse
Somewhere that is incredibly vibrant is Brixton. Brixton is a wonderful mixture of multicultural people, where you will be able to live in a down-to-earth way. It’s a melting pot of global influences, reflected in its eclectic food scene, famous market, and colourful street art. Brixton Village and Pop Brixton are hotspots for street food, vintage fashion, and independent retail.
The area has a strong creative spirit, and music lovers will find themselves drawn to the legendary O2 Academy Brixton, one of London’s most iconic live venues.
Brixton is a great choice for commuters with excellent Victoria Line connections and national rail services. Average house prices are around £625,000, and the area can be busy, but for many, the buzz is exactly what makes it special.
Streatham: Spacious Living with Great Connections
Streatham has quietly become a top choice for families and first-time buyers looking for space, affordability, and excellent transport links. Once considered a hidden gem, it now enjoys growing popularity for its large Victorian homes, strong community feel, and abundance of green space.
Streatham boasts three train stations (Streatham, Streatham Common, and Streatham Hill) making it one of South London’s best-connected residential hubs. Streatham Common and the Rookery Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the busy high street, while a range of new cafés, gyms, and local businesses are helping to modernise the area.
With an average house price of around £580,000, Streatham delivers real value for those seeking a balanced urban lifestyle.
Sydenham: Green, Quiet, and Well-Connected
Sydenham offers a quiet, leafy environment that appeals to families and nature lovers alike. With its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, Sydenham has retained a village charm while becoming increasingly popular with those looking for affordable homes near green space.
Residents enjoy easy access to Sydenham Hill Wood, a beautiful ancient woodland. The area also has a growing selection of independent shops, cafés, and pubs that enhance its relaxed yet vibrant character.
With Overground and national rail connections from Sydenham and Penge East stations, getting to central London is quick and straightforward. Average house prices in Sydenham hover around £530,000, making it an attractive option for those wanting a balance between city access and suburban calm.
Dulwich: The Village in the City
You may think that everywhere in South London is going to have that city centre vibe, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. Dulwich feels like a true village tucked within London. This leafy neighbourhood is known for its elegant period homes, green open spaces, and strong sense of community. Dulwich Park, with its boating lake, sports pitches, and serene gardens, is a much-loved local asset.
Families are especially drawn to the area thanks to its top-performing schools, including the renowned Dulwich College. Dulwich Picture Gallery adds to the cultural draw, and the local high street offers independent shops and cosy cafés.
The peaceful atmosphere and premium housing come with a price tag, with average house prices in Dulwich standing at around £900,000. But residents agree the quality of life is worth the investment.
Peckham: The Creative Heart of South London
Noted as being one of the more hipster-equal areas in London, Peckham is multicultural and lively. Found south of the River, it is within the larger area of Southwark and has, over the years, grown in popularity amongst those who want to live in South London.
Its vibrant high street and Rye Lane buzz with activity, while nearby Peckham Rye Park and Common offer a peaceful retreat. The area is particularly popular with young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs.
Served by the Overground and national rail, Peckham is well-connected while still retaining its distinctive personality. With average house prices around £600,000, it continues to draw buyers looking for culture, community, and character.
Greenwich: Historic Charm on the River
Greenwich is a riverside gem rich in history, architecture, and maritime tradition. Best known for its connection to the Prime Meridian and home to the Royal Observatory, this area offers a unique mix of heritage landmarks, open green spaces, and modern development.
Local attractions include the National Maritime Museum, Cutty Sark, and Greenwich Park – one of London’s oldest royal parks, offering stunning views over Canary Wharf. Despite its historic feel, Greenwich is also home to the ultra-modern O2 Arena, bringing world-class concerts and events to the neighbourhood.
Greenwich boasts fantastic transport links with DLR, Thames Clipper services, and national rail connections. Average property prices hover around £560,000, offering a balance of beauty, amenities, and accessibility.
Battersea: Riverside Living with an Edge
Battersea perfectly combines riverside tranquillity with urban cool. Its crowning feature is Battersea Power Station, an iconic London landmark now transformed into a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area’s regeneration has added sleek new apartment blocks and vibrant community spaces to its Victorian housing stock.
Battersea Park remains one of the capital’s finest green spaces, offering landscaped gardens, a boating lake, sports facilities, and riverside walks.
Though there’s no Tube station right in the heart of Battersea (until recently), new Northern Line extension stations now connect the area more easily to the City and West End. The average house price in Battersea is around £820,000, making it a desirable spot for professionals and young families alike.
Brockley: The Artistic Community Hub
Compared to other parts of South London, Brockley could be seen as being somewhat under the radar. Rather than this meaning that it isn’t a great place to live, what it does mean is that it is able to provide you with a somewhat quieter life, that has a true neighbourhood feel about it.
Independent coffee shops, delis, and galleries add character to its streets, while the Brockley Open Studios art trail showcases the local talent that gives the area its distinctive vibe.
Though Brockley lacks a Tube station, it's well-served by the London Overground and rail, making it accessible for commuters. It’s a quieter alternative to trendier areas nearby, with more affordable housing and a friendly, residential feel.
Average property prices in Brockley are around £565,000, making it an attractive option for young families and professionals who want character without the central London price tag.
Crystal Palace: Quirky Hilltop Living
Crystal Palace is one of the cheaper areas to live in South London and this means that many of the people who choose to live here are young professionals, couples and those people who are searching for the chance to get on the somewhat tricky London property ladder.
Crystal Palace stands out with its creative spirit, hilltop views, and vintage charm. With a unique mix of independent shops, cafés, and a much-loved food market, this area draws in a friendly crowd of artists, freelancers, and young families.
Its namesake park is a local treasure, complete with lakes, expansive gardens, and the famous Crystal Palace dinosaurs. While there’s no Tube station, several Overground and rail lines make commuting possible, though slightly longer than more central locations.
Average house prices in Crystal Palace sit at around £525,000.
Deptford: The Up-and-Coming Creative Quarter
If you want to live somewhere that is known to be trendy, then Deptford may be the spot for you. Recognised as being one of the coolest spots not only in South London but in London overall, Deptford has plenty of coffee shops, independent shops and of course, a market too.
The Deptford Market Yard is a hub of independent boutiques and street food, while frequent arts events keep the area buzzing. Its popularity continues to grow among students, young professionals, and entrepreneurs.
With Overground and rail connections to London Bridge in under 10 minutes, Deptford offers fast access to the city centre. House prices average around £510,000, making it an appealing option for those looking for an up-and-coming area with an edge.
Camberwell: Cultural Cool Meets Classic London
One thing that you will notice if you live in Camberwell is that it is a haven for those who are creative. In fact, it is one part of South London that could be described as being artsy, and this is reflected in the types of places that you will find lining the streets, including independent cafes and coffee shops aplenty. Home to the prestigious Camberwell College of Arts, the area has long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and independent thinkers.
The streets are lined with independent cafés, quirky pubs, and galleries, and the nearby hospitals and medical schools give it a strong academic presence. While Camberwell lacks a Tube station, nearby Oval and Denmark Hill stations provide strong connectivity.
Average house prices in Camberwell hover around £560,000, offering excellent value in a neighbourhood brimming with personality and culture.
Wimbledon: Leafy Living with Sporting Prestige
Wimbledon is world-renowned for its tennis championships, but beyond the courts lies one of South London’s most desirable residential areas. With its charming village centre, handsome period homes, and acres of green space, Wimbledon offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle.
Families are drawn to the area for its exceptional schools, including Wimbledon High School and King's College School, both of which are consistently rated among the best in the UK. The area is also home to Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park, providing ample space for outdoor activities.
Wimbledon is very well-connected, with fast rail and tube services from Wimbledon station, allowing commuters to reach central London in under 20 minutes. With average property prices around £850,000, it’s a premium choice, but one that offers excellent quality of life and enduring appeal.
Tooting: South London’s Foodie Favourite
Tooting has become a dynamic and culturally rich neighbourhood, especially beloved for its vibrant food scene. From the eclectic stalls of Tooting Market to the famous curry houses of Tooting Broadway, the area is a haven for food lovers and creatives.
The community vibe is strong here, with a mix of long-time residents and young professionals creating a lively, inclusive atmosphere. Tooting also offers fantastic green spaces such as Tooting Bec Common and the lido – one of the UK’s largest outdoor pools.
Tooting is served by two Northern Line stations, offering direct links to the West End and the City. With an average house price of around £620,000, it offers a more affordable option in a thriving South London neighbourhood.
Herne Hill: Village Charm by the Park
Nestled between Dulwich and Brixton, Herne Hill offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere while still being close to the hustle and bustle of the city. Its charming centre features independent shops, cosy cafés, and a popular Sunday farmers’ market that draws locals from across the borough.
One of Herne Hill’s standout features is Brockwell Park, a vast green space with a lido, walled gardens, and stunning views across London. The area is highly sought-after by families thanks to its community feel and excellent primary schools.
Train services from Herne Hill Station connect residents quickly to Victoria and the Thameslink line. The average property price sits around £770,000, reflecting the area’s rising popularity and charm.
Education in South London
South London offers a broad and high-quality selection of educational opportunities, which makes it a strong choice for families with school-aged children and students pursuing further education.
The area is home to a number of prestigious independent schools, including Dulwich College, Alleyn’s School, JAGS, and King’s College School in Wimbledon, all of which enjoy strong academic reputations and historic campuses. For co-educational or specialist education, schools like Graveney School in Tooting and The Charter School in North Dulwich are consistently rated as some of the best-performing state schools in London.
Creative and performing arts students are well-served by institutions such as Camberwell College of Arts and Trinity Laban Conservatoire, both of which offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses that attract students from across the UK and internationally.
South London is a well-rounded region for education at every level, as it offers everything from outstanding primary schools to specialised sixth-form colleges and arts education hubs.
Transport Links
One of the most compelling reasons to live in South London is its exceptional connectivity. Unlike some areas of Greater London, South London benefits from an expansive combination of National Rail, London Underground, Overground, DLR, river transport, and extensive bus networks, providing direct access to the City, Canary Wharf, and beyond.
Commuters are well-served by major stations such as Clapham Junction, London Bridge, and Waterloo, with routes connecting to all corners of the capital. Many areas, including Tooting, Herne Hill, and Peckham, benefit from frequent Thameslink and Southern Rail services, making travel fast and reliable even for those slightly further out.
And while not every neighbourhood has a Tube station on the doorstep, areas like Sydenham, Crystal Palace, and Brockley are covered by the London Overground, ensuring you’re rarely more than a short train ride away from central London hotspots. South London is also extremely well-covered by London’s iconic red buses, with routes running day and night, which are ideal for local trips or late-night journeys home.
Outdoor Activities
Despite being in the capital, South London provides a surprising abundance of green spaces, perfect for those who value time outdoors.
Beyond well-known green spaces like Clapham Common, Brockwell Park, and Wimbledon Common, there are also lesser-known gems such as Mayow Park in Sydenham, Peckham Rye Park and Common, and Norwood Grove. These areas offer walking trails, wildlife spotting, and plenty of space for kids to run free.
South London is also home to Tooting Bec Lido, a beloved open-air swimming pool, and Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, which includes athletics facilities, swimming pools, and even climbing walls.
Cyclists can take advantage of the Waterlink Way, a designated cycle route running through Lewisham and Southwark, while joggers and dog walkers alike enjoy the wide open paths of Dulwich Park or Battersea Park.
Cultural Attractions
From independent galleries to historic institutions, South London’s cultural scene is as diverse as its residents.
In Greenwich, attractions like the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and Queen’s House reflect the area’s maritime and scientific heritage. Meanwhile, Dulwich Picture Gallery, the UK’s oldest public art gallery, offers a rotating programme of exhibitions in an elegant setting.
Live performance is a big draw in South London. The O2 Academy Brixton regularly hosts internationally known acts, while venues such as the Battersea Arts Centre and The Albany in Deptford support community-led and experimental theatre.
For street art lovers, areas like Peckham, Brockley, and Camberwell are rich with murals and pop-up art spaces. Meanwhile, Deptford continues to grow as a creative district, thanks to its blend of artist studios, independent venues, and markets.
And of course, you have the pride of South London and current FA Cup holders, Crystal Palace Football Club, who draw crowds to their stadium, Selhurst Park, in South Norwood.
Local Amenities
South London is packed with independent retailers, cafés, gyms, markets, and leisure facilities, all of which make daily life more convenient and enjoyable.
Areas like Tooting, Streatham, and Crystal Palace have bustling high streets with a mix of big-name stores and small businesses. In Herne Hill, the Sunday farmers’ market is a community highlight, while Greenwich Market and Brixton Village offer food, crafts, and fashion in atmospheric surroundings.
Health and fitness are well catered for with facilities such as FUSION Leisure Centres, Better Gyms, and boutique fitness studios dotted across the boroughs. Meanwhile, coworking spaces, nurseries, and pet services are widely available across most neighbourhoods, especially in places like Wimbledon, Peckham, and Camberwell.
South London’s well-rounded local infrastructure ensures daily essentials are always within easy reach for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Moving to South London with Pinnacle Removals & Storage
If you're planning a move to vibrant South London, Pinnacle Removals & Storage is here to make the process smooth, efficient, and stress-free. We specialise in UK removals and offer professional support for domestic moves of all sizes, no matter whether you're relocating from across the country or just around the corner.
Our experienced team offers a complete range of moving services, including video or in-home surveys, secure packing, flexible storage solutions, and efficient transport. Every move is overseen by a dedicated Move Co-ordinator who will guide you through every stage.
With over 50 years of combined experience in domestic removals, we understand that every move is unique. Our fleet of GPS-tracked vehicles ensures the safe and timely transport of your belongings, and our fully trained staff provide the care and professionalism you deserve.
If you're relocating to South London, choose Pinnacle Removals & Storage for a moving experience you can trust.
Summary
As you can see, there are plenty of places that you can choose to live in South London, all of which have their own special appeal. Whether it’s the lively streets of Clapham, the village charm of Wimbledon, or the green spaces of Dulwich and Crystal Palace, South London has a magnetic appeal. Areas like Herne Hill, Tooting, and Sydenham offer a welcoming neighbourhood feel, while every corner of this part of the capital has its own unique character.
At Pinnacle Removals & Storage, we’re here to take the pressure off when it comes to making your move. Whether you're relocating from another part of the UK or moving locally within South London, our experienced team is here to handle the details. We’ll manage the move so you can focus on what matters most: settling into your new home.
Wherever you’re heading in South London, we’ll help you get there smoothly, securely, and without the stress.
Image Credits: Crystal Palace Dinosaurs by Ethan Doyle White, cropped from the original, licensed under CC BY 4.0. View original image on Wikimedia Commons.
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