London is home to many of the safest neighborhoods in the world. This is what makes it the popular choice for families, professionals and students.
Richmond is home to lush green parks and a quaint small-town atmosphere. Hampstead, known for its beautiful village feel, performs extremely well for security and overall quality of life.
Neighborhoods like Kensington and Chelsea offer some of the safest neighborhoods in London with close proximity to cultural landmarks and high-end amenities. Greenwich definitely comes out on top for its family-friendly atmosphere and historical charm.
All of these neighborhoods offer a feeling of safety in addition to high-quality public schools, parks, and neighborhood-serving amenities. So, when moving to or visiting London, choose the safest neighborhoods.
This decision ensures you keep your mind at ease as you enjoy all the charming qualities of this lively city.
1. Richmond upon Thames
Richmond comes out on top as the safest borough in which to live in London. It’s considered the safest place in London, boasting a crime rate of only 54 crimes per 1,000 residents. This reputation for safety, combined with its family-oriented amenities and strong schools, makes Richmond upon Thames a highly desirable area for families to put down roots. For many years, including 2024, Richmond and its neighbouring borough Twickenham have consistently ranked as the safest boroughs in the capital.
The wealth of green spaces serves as the second biggest attraction of this safe neighbourhood. Richmond features more than 100 parks and over 1.8 miles of the Metropolitan Green Belt, covering a total area of 346 acres. This greenery cushions every area of Richmond, creating a quiet, almost rural atmosphere while still providing a uniquely London experience. Charming little cafes and pubs along the riverside contribute to a lively yet peaceful environment.
This popular weekend getaway welcomes you to unwind, bask in the warm weather, and take in picturesque landscapes. You can find many trendy places by the river in neighbouring Kingston upon Thames, only three miles away. These spots make the neighborhood’s artsy and laid back charm even more attractive.
Richmond’s public transport links are excellent, with buses whisking you to Central London in less than 20 minutes. This community is ideal for commuting professionals seeking the convenience of urban living while enjoying the peace and quiet of suburban life. The local economy thrives on its energetic village character, with buzzing local cafes, pubs, and boutique shops adding to the area’s warm charisma.
Here’s a quick comparison of Richmond with other dangerous boroughs for context.
Neighborhood | Average Rent (1-Bedroom) | Crime Rate (Per 1,000 People) |
|---|---|---|
Richmond | $2,100 | 54 |
Camden | $2,500 | 116 |
Brixton | $1,900 | 135 |
2. Hampstead Garden Suburb
Hampstead Garden Suburb’s beauty sets it apart, famous for its stunning architecture and rich community spirit. This community was one of the first planned in the early 20th century. Its charm is palpable, with a friendly, small town atmosphere that residents often claim is reminiscent of life in the country. Even on a Sunday afternoon, the central square is mostly empty, adding to the peaceful scene. Others might find this nothingness a little creepy, but it contributes to the suburb’s identity as a safe area within Greater London.
Overall, this is another very positive aspect here, with very low violent crime levels and personal robbery. Residents frequently touch on the sense of security they feel, helping it stand out as an ideal community for homebuyers who value tranquility. The area holds a “good” rating from Ofsted, providing further peace of mind for parents looking for the best educational opportunities in a safe city.
Several individuals have noted a lack of young families and community events catered toward parents. If you have specific needs, this might be a key feature for you to weigh when considering the local neighbourhood.
For nature lovers, being close to Hampstead Heath is another huge advantage. This sprawling green space offers plenty of recreational opportunities, from leisurely walks to scenic views that are hard to match within the city. The suburb has a good selection of shops and restaurants to provide you with everything you might need on a daily basis, making it a desirable option among London areas.
The two main hubs are located at Temple Fortune and Market Place. Though this may result in a lack of variety relative to more bustling locations, this is consistent with the serene nature of the suburb.
The area’s premium appeal does come with a high price tag. Homes average a whopping $1,158 per square foot, a testament to the suburb’s exclusivity. Its position in Zone 3 requires an annual travel card to Zone 1, adding $1,668.
If you are going to be commuting frequently, it’s something to consider budgeting for this cost, especially when evaluating the overall value of living in this affluent area.
3. Bexley
In a real estate market increasingly dominated by wealthier buyers, Bexley offers an attainable option for families and young professionals looking for a safe neighbourhood in Greater London. It enables them to live in London without financial ruin, as housing prices here are not very high compared to many other boroughs. This gives you a lot more freedom to find a home that suits your needs in a safe area.
Tree-lined Victorian streets fill this town with charm, and a bustling town center offers all the shops and services necessary for convenient day-to-day living. Its low cost of living makes Bexley particularly attractive for those just starting out or raising a family in this dynamic city.
Safety is a big point of pride in Bexley, and the stats can’t be argued with. The overall crime rate is 56 crimes per 1,000 people, much lower than the London average. This means this borough is one of the safest places to call home when compared to other dangerous boroughs.
Personal theft and home burglaries are incredibly uncommon in this city, providing residents with a sense of security. In fact, the quality of life crime rate is 13.7% lower than the citywide average, providing peace of mind for those who value safety above all else.
One thing you can’t overlook about Bexley is how family-friendly it is. With more than 100 parks and 346 acres of Metropolitan Green Belt land, it’s the ideal space for your outdoor adventures. Families are attracted by the promise of great state schools, where a great education is just around the corner.
The riverside cafes and shops add a friendly, small-town vibe. This welcoming atmosphere creates an ideal place to raise kids or enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle in this safe city.
Here’s what sets Bexley apart from other London boroughs.
- Frequent community events that bring neighbors together
- Local markets offering fresh produce and unique finds
- Fast 13-minute rail journey from Bromley to London Victoria
- A tranquil respite from the urban intensity, crisscrossed with lush parkland and riverfront paths
4. Kingston upon Thames
Kingston upon Thames hasn’t lost any of its luster, with its dynamic central business district, a myriad of shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities. From indie boutiques to international brands, the shopping scene is vibrant and walkable. You’ll discover culinary experiences that will tempt every palate.
Indulge at trendy riverside cafés with a laid-back city feel, or kick back in traditional pubs ideal for a hearty meal. Entertainment options like theaters and live music venues add even more vibrancy, making it a hub for both locals and visitors in this safe city.
The palpable sense of community in Kingston is remarkable, fostered by enthusiastic local organizations and events. New weekly farmers markets offer access to fresh produce and a new opportunity for neighbors to meet and mingle. The community spirit of the area creates a dynamic, inclusive, and safe atmosphere, making it one of the best places to live in Greater London.
Residents, local businesses, and advocacy groups work tirelessly to create and maintain this culture. This creates an intimate village center feel, despite all the nearby urban amenities that define Kingston as a desirable London borough.
Safety is the biggest area of improvement and focus here by far. Its crime rate is only 57 per 1,000 people, much lower than other neighborhoods all around London, including some of the more dangerous boroughs. Violent crimes and home burglaries are almost non-existent, making it a relaxing and worry-free home for families and individuals to call home.
The local crime rate paired with the active engagement of the community has resulted in Kingston being named one of the safest boroughs to reside in all of London. This accolade emphasizes its appeal as a safe area for those seeking urban living without the worry of danger.
Kingston isn’t just about thriving urban life. Nature is close at hand. Its namesake river winds through the town for three miles, providing picturesque scenery and a wealth of recreational opportunities.
With more than 100 parks and more than 350 acres of green belt land, getting out in the open is a breeze. High performing schools & abundant parks Families are drawn to communities with great schools and abundant, well-maintained outdoor spaces where kids can play.
Here’s a comparison of rental prices in Kingston versus other safe neighborhoods, showcasing its value in the competitive London housing market.
Neighborhood | Average Monthly Rent ($) |
|---|---|
Kingston upon Thames | 2,500 |
Richmond upon Thames | 3,200 |
Hampstead | 3,800 |
5. Chiswick
Home to picturesque streets and a scenic riverside setting, Chiswick really is the full package, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in London. Discover the neighborhood’s wide, leafy boulevards. Relax with a picturesque stroll along the River Thames on your route to Hammersmith.
It’s not as saturated as you think, and things like fenced-in dog parks make it a great spot for dog lovers. Imagine your four-legged companion running and playing without restraint in the fresh air, surrounded by plenty of space to roam in this safe neighborhood. Chiswick House and Gardens glimmers as yet another jewel. Its stunning architecture and beautiful grounds provide a perfect place to savor sunny afternoons.
Safety is certainly a consideration, with Chiswick having very low crime rates—only about 57 crimes per 1,000 residents. Personal theft is significantly low, which promotes a greater sense of security for families and single residents. Whether you’re visiting locally-owned businesses or making your way to the scenic waterfront, walking around this safe area is a carefree experience.
The cultural life brings much excitement to Chiswick, with nearby farmers markets, lively festivities, and numerous parks and cafes to relax in. Locals swoon over Ma and Pa joints for their homey vibe. At a taverna where Angelo and Akis serve, local regulars welcome newcomers by recalling their drink of choice and the best spot to sit in this dynamic city.
Sip on refreshing Rhubarb Gin cocktails and try a juicy bavette steak on our ½ price Tuesdays. It’s those experiences that foster our strong sense of community in this vibrant borough.
For those with families, Chiswick provides the best schools and amenities in the area. Beyond the great school options, this area is known for its family-friendly vibe. You don’t want to forget about the local eateries, which whip up enough meal magic to feed a crowd!
If you are smart about where you eat, most meals here are less than $12.
Conclusion
London offers a mix of vibrant culture and safe living, and these neighborhoods stand out for their charm and security. Richmond upon Thames and Kingston upon Thames boast beautiful riverside landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere. Hampstead Garden Suburb mixes beauty with seclusion. Bexley offers a family-friendly atmosphere, while Chiswick blends community spirit with urban convenience.
Each neighborhood has its own unique charm, but one thing they all have in common is a reputation for being safe and welcoming. Be it a passion for abundant parks, neighborly culture, or dynamic downtowns, these new places offer a bit of everything to everyone.
Whether you’re making an upcoming move or simply checking out your new city’s options, these neighborhoods all deserve your attention. Safety and overall quality of life is a priority in London, and is one of the many reasons why it’s such a wonderful place to call home.