Cheapest Places to Find a Rental Property in London in 2025
Renters in London now have an even broader selection of affordable rental properties to choose from. Despite the soaring demand for rental properties across the city, renters are finding more options in cheaper boroughs due to shifts in the rental market. This is especially the case after the global pandemic, where more tenants are looking for homes in less central areas that are more budget-friendly.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the most affordable places to rent a property in London for 2025. These areas offer a variety of options for renters, including both flats and houses, all at prices much more reasonable compared to central London locations.
If you are currently searching for a rental property in London, Real Estate Agents London can help you navigate the rental market, find a home that fits your budget, and secure your dream rental. Get in touch with us at 0207 055 0441 or book an appointment online.
Here Are the Cheapest Areas to Rent in London in 2025
According to the official statistics from the Mayor of London, the private rental market continues to reflect a stark difference between the central and outer boroughs, with the latter offering renters more affordable prices for rental properties.
While areas like Barking and Dagenham continue to rise in popularity due to the affordability of both homes for purchase and rent, areas such as Bexley, Havering, and Sutton have emerged as the most cost-effective places for renters. Let’s take a closer look at these boroughs and what they offer to renters.
Bexley: Affordable Rentals in South-East London
Located around 40-45 minutes from Central London, Bexley is a charming area that offers the cheapest areas to rent in London. Known for its quiet suburban environment, Bexley is ideal for young families and those looking for a peaceful place to live without being too far from the city.
Rental prices for properties in Bexley are incredibly affordable compared to the heart of London. Expect to pay around £800–£850 per month for a 1-bedroom flat, with 2-bedroom properties starting from £1,200 per month. Larger homes, such as 3-bedroom houses, are available from £1,250–£1,300, and 4-bedroom properties begin at £2,000 per month.
The advantages of renting in Bexley include
- It’s one of the safest boroughs in London
- Quiet, leafy areas with plenty of green spaces
- High-rated schools and a community-focused vibe
- A more affordable way of living while still being close to London
Havering: A Growing East London Area
Havering, located in East London, is gaining more attention as one of the cheapest areas to rent in London. This area is ideal for young families and individuals seeking an area with good schools, nature spots, and shopping options. The cost of living here is incredibly reasonable for renters looking for rental property in London.
The average rental prices in Havering are competitive, with 1-bedroom flats starting at £860 per month, 2-bedroom properties at £1,150, and 3-bedroom homes averaging at £1,300 per month. For those in need of a larger home, 4-bedroom houses are available for around £1,880 per month.
Advantages of renting in Havering include
- A great combination of urban and suburban living
- Plenty of public and private investment fueling growth
- Good connections to Central London via rail and road
Sutton: Ideal for Young Families
Sutton, another outer London area, is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering an affordable way to rent in London. Sutton’s good transportation links make it easy to commute to the city in under 45 minutes. This suburb is an excellent choice for those looking for a balance of city life and suburban tranquillity.
Rental prices in Sutton for a 1-bedroom flat start at £925 per month, with 2-bedroom flats averaging at £1,250. Larger homes, such as 3-bedroom properties, are available from £1,650, and 4-bedroom houses can be found for £1,750 per month.
The advantages of renting in Sutton include
- Vibrant community and plenty of green spaces
- Affordable rental prices for families and individuals
- Highly rated schools and good healthcare facilities
Barking and Dagenham: Affordable and Up-and-Coming
Barking and Dagenham, situated in East London, has seen an influx of new residents seeking more affordable rental properties in London. With excellent connections to Central London via the London Underground and National Rail, this borough continues to rise in popularity among renters.
Renting in Barking and Dagenham remains affordable compared to many other parts of London. A 1-bedroom flat can be rented for as low as £990 per month, 2-bedroom flats are available from £1,250, and 3-bedroom properties start at £1,450 per month.
Advantages of renting in Barking and Dagenham include
- Good transport links to Central London
- Up-and-coming community with lots of investment
- Affordable rental prices for tenants
Croydon: The Metropolitan Centre in South London
Croydon is a South London borough that offers affordable rental options in a well-connected, thriving area. Commuters can reach Central London in under 30 minutes, making Croydon one of the cheapest places to live in London.
Renting a property in Croydon is incredibly affordable, with 1-bedroom flats available from £920 per month, 2-bedroom flats averaging £1,310, and 3-bedroom flats renting for around £1,525 per month. Larger properties, such as 4-bedroom homes, start from £2,000 per month.
The advantages of renting in Croydon include
- Excellent public transport connections
- A mix of affordable housing types
- A cultural and commercial centre with growing appeal
Hillingdon: A Gateway to West London
Hillingdon, located near London’s Heathrow Airport, offers rental property in London at some of the most competitive prices in the capital. With a combination of modern developments and period homes, Hillingdon provides a range of options for renters on a budget.
Rental rates in Hillingdon start at £965 per month for a 1-bedroom flat, with 2-bedroom flats averaging £1,360 per month. For 3-bedroom properties, expect to pay £1,575 per month. Hillingdon is a great option for those seeking affordable living with easy access to both the countryside and Central London.
Advantages of renting in Hillingdon include
- Proximity to Heathrow Airport
- Quick access to Central London
- Large, affordable housing options
Bromley: A Balance of Urban and Rural
Bromley is a popular area for renters who want to enjoy a peaceful, suburban environment without compromising on accessibility to Central London. Renters can expect to pay around £925 per month for a 1-bedroom flat, with 2-bedroom properties available from £1,300 per month. For those looking for larger homes, 3-bedroom houses start at £1,500 per month.
Advantages of renting in Bromley include
- A mix of urban and rural living
- Good transport links to London
- Affordable and spacious properties
Redbridge: The Hidden Gem of East London
Redbridge offers affordable living options and has a vibrant cultural and arts scene. With great schools and parks, it’s no surprise that many young families and professionals are choosing to rent in London in this borough.
Rental rates in Redbridge start at £950 per month for a 1-bedroom flat, £1,325 for a 2-bedroom flat, and £1,560 for a 3-bedroom property. For 4-bedroom homes, rental prices begin at £2,000 per month.
The advantages of renting in Redbridge include
- Quiet suburban living with easy access to the city
- Strong community and excellent schools
- Affordable rental options for families
Waltham Forest: Affordable Living in North-East London
Waltham Forest is one of the more affordable areas for renters in London, with properties starting from as low as £1,000 per month for a 1-bedroom flat. 2-bedroom properties are available from £1,400, and larger homes, such as 3-bedroom flats, start at £1,675.
The advantages of renting in Waltham Forest include
- Close to Epping Forest and the River Lea
- Good transport links to Central London
- A vibrant community with plenty of parks and green spaces
Lewisham: Rising in Popularity
Lewisham is gaining momentum as a sought-after area for renters. With great rental prices and a strong sense of community, Lewisham is becoming increasingly popular for tenants looking for a more affordable place to rent a property in London.
Rental prices in Lewisham start at £1,070 per month for a 1-bedroom flat, with 2-bedroom properties renting for around £1,550. Larger homes, such as 3-bedroom flats, are available from £2,050 per month.
The advantages of renting in Lewisham include
- Good transport links to Central London
- Vibrant and up-and-coming area
- Affordable rental prices for larger properties
Conclusion
In conclusion, while renting in Central London can be expensive, there are still plenty of affordable cheapest areas to rent in London. Boroughs like Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and Bexley offer fantastic rental properties that allow tenants to live affordably while still being close to the city. If you’re looking for a rental property in London in 2025, these areas should be on your radar.
Frequently Asked Questions
London’s rental market can be pricey, but there are still plenty of affordable areas to consider. Some of the cheapest areas to rent in London in 2025 include Bexley, Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Sutton, and Croydon. These areas offer more budget-friendly rental prices while still being well-connected to central London, making them ideal for renters who want to stay close to the city without paying sky-high prices.
Yes, renting outside of Central London is generally more affordable than in the city centre. Areas like Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and Redbridge provide relatively lower rents while still offering good transport links into the heart of London. These areas tend to have a more suburban vibe, with access to green spaces and a quieter lifestyle, making them perfect for young families or commuters who don’t mind traveling a little further for work.
Finding affordable rental property in London involves a few key steps:
1. Use online platforms: Websites like Zoopla, Rightmove, and Rentify often have listings for the most up-to-date rental properties in London.
2. Consult estate agents: Estate agents like Real Estate Agents London have in-depth knowledge of the market and can help you find rental properties that suit your budget.
3. Set alerts: Many rental platforms allow you to set alerts for new properties within your price range, which is helpful when properties move quickly in London.
4. Expand your search radius: Consider looking at areas that are slightly further from Central London but still well-connected by public transport. Boroughs like Barking and Dagenham or Redbridge often offer more affordable options.
