So, you’ve just landed a great new job in the capital. Times like these are always filled with joy, and a little bit of trepidation. But, while it may be tempting to consider moving to the big smoke, remember that there are far more benefits to commuting into London from somewhere on the commuter belt, instead of being right in the city centre. Read on to find out what we think are the greatest benefits to commuting into London.
1. It can give you a better place to live
Sure, for some in their 20s and early 30s living in London might seem like a dream come true, with so much to do and see but, for many of that age and older living in London can be quite a drain on both energy and finances.
Living just outside of the city on the commuter belt can mean that you’re living in a much more rural area, while still having access to all the exciting things going on in London. Not only that, commuters who are thinking about settling down and having a family will find it much easier to put down roots in a suburb of London than in the city itself.
Additionally, moving to a more rural area outside of the centre of the city could allow you to escape the high levels of pollution that can be found in London’s air. As of January 2018, air pollution in London had already reached the legal limit for the whole year which, while shocking, is better than previous years. However, having it reach the legal limit so early into the year means it may be a benefit to you to not stay in the centre of the city.
Areas such as Purley or The Webb Estate, Coulsdon and Kenley all provide an exceptional standard of living, with easy access to London via rail links.
2. It gives you more opportunities
Being based on the commuter belt might benefit more than just your current job. If you’re not happy in your current position, living in commuting distance of the centre of London may give you an edge over other candidates when applying for new jobs in the city.
The fact that you are already situated in the perfect place for a commute to London means that there will be a far wider range of jobs available to you, compared to if you were situated outside of the city commuter belt, especially in the finance, marketing and business sectors.
If you’d like to consider moving to somewhere with an easy commute to London, why not get in touch with us today and let us help you find that perfect place on the London commuter belt.
3. It can save you money
Living in the centre of London can mean that you get a longer lie-in and the possibility of a walk or cycle to work, but it can cost a lot more for the rental or purchase of your flat or house. People who live in London often justify this by saying that it exempts them from paying train fares of up to £5,000, but really, the monetary difference for commuters is much greater than you might think.
If you live outside London in one of the common commuter towns, such as Croydon, Reading, or Caterham, house prices are reported as being on average 55% lower – that’s around £300,000 cheaper – than living closer to your place of work in Central London. Living fifteen minutes away from central London, for example in Croydon, can see house prices reduced by over £200,000 for only £2,800 in travel costs for a year.