People are moving to this ‘vibrant’ London borough more than anywhere else in 2025

An afternoon swim in a world-famous Lido, a stroll around one of South London’s first indoor markets, a trip to the zoo – or perhaps even an acrobatics show.

These are just some of the unique cultural activities on offer in Wandsworth, which has just been named the most popular London borough for 2025.

Analysing more than 23,000 moves to the capital this year alone, a new study has seen Wandsworth take the top spot.

But why? It’s not exactly cheap. House prices in Wandsworth average £691,000, towering over the current national average of £270,000, (according to ONS figures).

Plus, renting here certainly costs a pretty penny, as Compare My Move’s research found that the average monthly payment comes in at £2,526.

So, just what’s all the fuss about?

Housing in Wandsworth

When it comes to explaining why it’s so popular despite the relative price tag, Damien Jefferies, founder of Jefferies London, has a few theories.

As Damien tells Metro, it ‘combines lifestyle appeal with relative affordability given its favourable location.’

He explains: ‘Families are attracted by the excellent schools, plentiful green space and riverside setting, while professionals value the fast connections into central London, particularly with the Northern line extension, as well as the up-and-coming buzz that has come from the redevelopment of the Battersea Power Station and surrounding area of Nine Elms.’

In his mind, it channels an essence of London’s ‘prestige’ without the champagne budget associated with nearby Chelsea and Fulham.

Damien adds that, over the last year, the average sold price across Wandsworth has actually fallen by 6.4%, which he says is ‘in line with the slowdown seen across the wider London market.’

However, this has actually fuelled the borough’s popularity even further, as the average number of monthly housing transactions rose by 10.1% in 2024 and 9.3% in 2023.

Things to do in Wandsworth

From quirky food markets to a vibrant clubbing scene, there’s plenty to explore down this neck of the woods. It was also named the London Borough of Culture for 2025 by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, hailed for being ‘vibrant and diverse,’ as well as teeming with creativity.

Tooting Market is worthy of a visit alone – being one of South London’s first indoor markets, opening in 1930.

For those who like to party, Exhibit in Balham and Tram and Social in Tooting are two standout clubs, offering karaoke, bottomless brunches, comedy nights and more.

And those who prefer the great outdoors can enjoy the area’s green spaces like Wandsworth Park, Battersea Park and the River Wandle. Alternatively, why not take a dip in the famous Tooting Bec Lido?

Elsewhere on the cultural scene, there’s the Royal Academy of Dance offering a range of classes, while Battersea Arts Centre has a vibrant programme of events, covering music, theatre, dance and acrobatics.

Backyard Cinema is another great option for a day out, as well as Theatre 503 – which is located on top of the Latchmere pub.

Wandsworth is an incredibly family-friendly neighbourhood, with the likes of Battersea Children’s Zoo – offering hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike – and The Pottery Café, which is the ideal activity for creative little ones.

On the financial side of things, it also benefits from the lowest council tax rates in the whole country – which is certainly welcome news for the wallet.

This piece was first published on July 12, 2024.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Comments