Where to live in London: a guide

So, you have just arrived in London, the university halls are full and you are wondering which area is the cheapest to live in. Don’t worry, we are here to help! First of all, you have to be prepared to share your flat with other people as this is one rite of passage you don’t want to miss. Who knows? These people might end up being your best friends for life!
One of the more affordable and up-and-coming areas in London is Stoke Newington, ideally located in Zone 2 and served by numerous buses and the Overground and close to cool areas Dalston and Highbury. The attraction of Stoke Newington is its bohemian character which you can explore on Church Street’s funky shops, cafes and boutiques.
In recent years Stoke Newington has been transformed from a derelict, dreary and ordinary typical inner city area into the glitzy, trendy urban destination of today. Still, Stoke Newington retains most of its Hackney identity and edge but is becoming more and more popular with lots of young professionals moving there.
Another area which is a favourite among students and young professionals is trendy New Cross. Conveniently located in South East London’s Zone 2, the area is served by the Overground, the hipsters’ new favourite means of transport. It is mainly populated by creative types, usually art students from Goldsmiths.
New Cross has emerged as a surprise contender and it has reclaimed its place in our list of cheap areas to live in, especially after trendy Hackney stole all the limelight. It has finally shed its rough reputation and has emerged as an important spot in the clubbing scene with venues like the Amersham Arms.
It also boasts wide leafy streets, Victorian houses, funky bars, little quirky shops and a proximity to great areas, like Greenwich, Blackheath and Lewisham with its famous market. Despite appearances, New Cross is a safe area with a good vibe and is more or less one of the few affordable places to live in London as a student. It will definitely charm you with its sense of community and buzzing nightlife. So wherever you choose to go, make sure that you enjoy your time there!