Safest boroughs in London

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Top 10 Safest boroughs in London with the Best quality of life – 2023

Moving to London can be a great experience because there are a lot of things to consider. One of the most important things to consider for anyone moving to London is safety. Although London is a safe place to live, there are other boroughs that are safer than others. According to a recent report collected from the UK’s Office of National Statistics (ONS), in the year ending March 2022, there was an average of 93.25 crimes per 1,000 people. When looking for places to live in London, it’s important that your new home or flat has good security systems in place. If you’re looking for a safe place to settle, then we’ve got you covered with our list of the safest boroughs to live in London with the best quality of life!

Safest boroughs to live in London - infographic

Methodology

Our ranking is based on the crime rates in London published by Police.uk. In the year ending March 2022, an average of 93.25 crimes per 1,000 people were recorded in the Metropolitan Police force area. Statistics were collected from the UK – Office of National Statistics (ONS).

Using this data, we’ve ranked the 10 safest boroughs to live in London while also considering their quality of life. The criteria used to determine the quality of life are: health, pollution, green space and recreation, climate, education, and employment.

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1. Richmond upon Thames

Lowest crime rate in London

Richmond upon Thames is a place worth staying in because of its village feel. This borough is rich in history and has been a favourite getaway of painters, writers, and artists because of the many attractions it has to offer. The Richmond upon Thames Community Safety Partnership reports that this area has the lowest crime rate in London over the last three years in terms of safety. The crime rate in Richmond upon Thames is 57.42 per 1,000 people, which is 38% lower than the average rate in London. Because of the safety it provides, staying here will undoubtedly make you feel good and at ease. (*London Borough of Richmond upon Thames & Visit Richmond)

Richmond upon Thames is a place worth staying in because of its village feel. This borough is rich in history and has been a favourite getaway of painters, writers, and artists because of the many attractions it has to offer. The Richmond upon Thames Community Safety Partnership reports that this area has the lowest crime rate in London over the last three years in terms of safety. The crime rate in Richmond upon Thames is 57.42 per 1,000 people, which is 38% lower than the average rate in London. Because of the safety it provides, staying here will undoubtedly make you feel good and at ease.

(*London Borough of Richmond upon Thames & Visit Richmond)

Richmond upon Thames, London

2. Bexley

Nature lovers’ paradise

2. Bexley

The London Borough of Bexley can be found in the south-east corner of the city and is considered to be a part of Outer London. This borough is not just known for having one of the cheapest places to live in London but also for having one of the lowest crime rates among all of London’s boroughs. Bexley is home to more than one hundred parks, making it one of the most park-rich boroughs in London. Bexley has a crime rate that is 33% lower than the average rate for all of London, with 62.81 crimes committed per 1,000 persons in the borough.

(*Police.uk & My London News)

Bexley, London

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3. Merton

Best for sport life

3. Merton

Merton is a borough located outside of London, to the south-west of the city proper. It provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, as well as quiet open spaces and accommodation that is suitable for families. Considering that the rate of crime in Merton is 64.27 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 31% lower than the average rate in London, this is one of the most secure neighbourhoods to live in the city of London. Due to the availability of sporting events and other activities promoting healthy living, this location is ideal for groups of people of all sizes, including families.

(*Police.uk & Merton Council)

Merton, London

4. Harrow

Historical borough

4. Harrow

The London Borough of Harrow is located in northwest London, England. Harrow is undoubtedly a popular choice for anyone considering relocating to London. The borough is known as one of the more affluent parts of the capital and is overflowing with historic buildings. Making it on this ranking of the safest boroughs to live in London the crime rate in Harrow is 64.30 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 31% lower than the average rate in London. This borough is quite concerned about the safety of its residents, as evidenced by the promotion of a map-based application that allows citizens to express their opinions on areas where they feel safe or unsafe.

(*Police.uk & https://www.harrow.gov.uk/)

Harrow, London

5. Sutton

Perfect for nature lovers

5. Sutton

The name Sutton comes from the place name Sutton, which means “south town”. The borough of Sutton is known for its commitment to community safety and its rich cultural and racial diversity. Sutton is home to the borough’s largest library, as well as various works of public art and four conservation areas that are open to the public and may be enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. Pushing for a safer place makes them part of the list as Sutton has 65.72 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 30% lower than the average rate in London.   

(*Police.uk & Sutton Council)

Sutton, London

6. Havering

Vibrant nightlife

6. Havering

Havering is a popular borough among families because of its affordable rates and accessible location. This borough is among the top 10 safest boroughs to live in London because there were only 69.66 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 25% lower than the average rate in London. Without having to worry about potential dangers, the locals can take pleasure in activities such as going to the region’s three country parks, walking in open areas, participating in sporting events, and observing the natural world. If you are a person who enjoys staying up late, you will find that this location boasts a lively nightlife.  

(*Police.uk & About Britain)

Havering, London

7. Bromley

Ideal place for socialising and recreation

7. Bromley

Bromley is a large Greater London borough. It is currently a major shopping, entertainment, and commercial district as well. Young people of this borough are active, as they plan activities that would benefit the residents wanting to join. They provide a variety of social and recreational activities for everyone, including those with disabilities. The rate of crime in Bromley is 70.02 per 1,000 people, which is one quarter lower than the average rate in London.

(*Police.uk, London Borough of Bromley & Britannica)

Bromley, London

8. Barnet

Health-conscious borough

8.-Barnet.png

The London Borough of Barnet is a suburban London borough in North London. The parks are pleasant, the schools are exceptional (the area is renowned as the “Golden Triangle for schools”), and all of the conveniences you could ever want are right outside your door. The crime rate in Barnet is 70.38 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 25% lower than the average rate in London. As a result, you will have a sense of safety while you are in this location. There is always something going on in this neighbourhood, whether you are looking for a fitness class, lunch groups, coffee mornings, or opportunities to make new friends. There’s something for everyone in Barnet. 

(*Police.uk & Barnet Council)

Barnet, London

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9. Kingston upon Thames

Best for the outdoors

9. Kingston upon Thames

In southwest London, England, the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames contains the town of Kingston upon Thames. Kingston upon Thames is one the safest boroughs to live in London because it has a crime rate that is 71.94 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 23% lower than the average crime rate in London. If you’re looking for a quiet, natural setting, this borough is a great choice. It is important to point out that the officials are working to improve the safety of the community and are opposed to violence committed against women and girls.

 

(*Police.uk & The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames)

Kingston upon Thames, London

10. Hillingdon

Endless open space and the most “Green Flag” land

10. Hillingdon

Hillingdon is distinguished from the other boroughs by having an unending supply of open space and the highest concentration of “Green Flag” land. Hillingdon, which is located on the outskirts of London, is known as the “portal to the world” since Heathrow Airport occupies a sizeable portion of the borough’s overall land area. There are 77.77 crimes per 1,000 people in Hillingdon, which is 17% lower than the average rate in London. If you are thinking about moving, you should give this borough some thought because of its low crime rate.

(*Police.uk & London News)

Hillingdon, London

Conclusion

It is reassuring to know that the location you call home provides a sense of security and protection, free from the burden of constantly being on guard against potential threats. Before settling on a location to relocate to, you should carefully analyse the amenities, jobs and industries, housing options, and other factors that are important to you. But regardless of where you decide to live, these 11 things to know and do when moving to London can certainly help you.

The expert

Mathieu

Mathieu Paquette

The author of this article also acts as MovingWaldo’s booking agent. Matt, is an accomplished relocation specialist with over 6 years of experience in the industry. Matt has earned a CAM certification (Canadian Association Of Movers), Tariff Certification (Atlas Van Lines), and has an extensive business background. Before handing off everything you own, do your due diligence… or let Matt do it for you.

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