What are the safest areas to live in London?
Safety is a crucial factor when choosing where to book any sort of accommodation in London.
London is a reasonably safe city, but you’ll ideally want a neighbourhood where safety is a key priority. Somewhere with low crime rates and a high level of security.
To help you decide where to settle, we've analysed the latest available data to highlight the safest areas to live in London.
First up, a look at the safest neighbourhoods in London, followed by the safest boroughs.
London's safest neighbourhoods
London boasts several safe areas to live that combine exceptional safety with luxury living. Here are seven of the safest.
1. St. John's Wood
St. John’s Wood is a prestigious residential area known for its quiet streets and proximity to Regent’s Park. The area has a suburban feel with all the luxuries of city living, making it ideal for those who want quiet and convenience.
As well as being one of the safest areas to live in zone 1, 2, or 3, it boasts luxury properties offering private security and high-tech surveillance systems.
The area ranks low for both petty and serious crime, and has a visible police presence and a strong sense of community.
St. John’s Wood offers safe, residential living. Many luxury properties in this area have private security and high-tech surveillance systems.
If you’re looking for the safest areas to live in London, St. John’s Wood consistently stands out for its safety measures and community-focused atmosphere.
Key highlights:
Transport links: St John’s Wood offers fast, convenient access to central London and beyond. It’s served by the Jubilee line, nearby National Rail stations, and a range of bus routes.
Local amenities: The area is surrounded by greenery, with the stunning Regent’s Park just a short walk away. There are also many high-end restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops in the area.
Our take:
“St John’s Wood may not be well-known internationally, but Londoners recognise it as one of the city’s most desirable places to live. Consistently considered as one of the safest areas near Central London, it offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere just minutes from the city centre.”
2. Belgravia
Belgravia is known for its iconic, grand white stucco houses, private garden squares, and proximity to some of London's most prestigious landmarks. This area is one of London’s wealthiest, with a refined, serene atmosphere, making it a sought-after neighbourhood for those who want to experience the best of London’s high-end living.
A moderately safe neighbourhood, Belgravia appeals to residents who value discretion, elegance, and reliable on-site security, with many apartments in the area offering extra safety features such as 24-hour security.
Key highlights:
Transport links: Belgravia connects to the Victoria and Circle lines, providing easy Tube access to the rest of London.
Local amenities: It’s surrounded by luxury shopping areas like Sloane Street, world-class dining spots, and beautiful green spaces like Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace Gardens.
3. Hampstead
Hampstead has a village-like charm with cobbled streets, boutiques, and stunning views from Hampstead Heath. Popular with professionals, it’s known for its low crime rates, particularly instances of serious crime.
Families often gravitate toward Hampstead when searching for the safest areas to live in London, thanks to its excellent schools and strong sense of community.
Key highlights:
Transport links: Despite its village charm, Hampstead boasts excellent transport links, with fast access across London via the Northern, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines, Overground trains, and major bus routes.
Local amenities: An infectious mix of new and old, Hampstead boasts quaint pubs and shops alongside modern art spaces and eateries. With the famous park, Hampstead Heath, at its centre.
4. Knightsbridge
Knightsbridge is one of London’s most prestigious addresses, known for luxury shopping, world-class dining, and opulent residences. Home to the iconic Harrods department store, it’s a popular destination for high-net-worth individuals and celebrities.
Like many parts of central London, Knightsbridge has its safety challenges, but benefits from robust security measures, including private security and surveillance in many residential buildings.
Key highlights:
Transport links: Home to Knightsbridge and South Kensington stations on the Piccadilly Line, the area offers easy access to central London and beyond.
Local amenities: Knightsbridge is a luxury shopper’s paradise, home to high-end boutiques and department stores. It’s also close to Kensington Gardens – ideal for a leisurely stroll or outdoor relaxation
5. Notting Hill
Beyond the famous carnival, Notting Hill is known for its upscale residences and iconic pastel-colored houses, making it a symbol of luxury living.
While the area has a moderate crime rate, it remains family-friendly and community-oriented, with a strong neighborhood watch presence and enhanced security in its luxury apartments.
Key highlights:
Transport links: Notting Hill is served by Notting Hill Gate Station on the Central, Circle, and District lines, providing easy access to various parts of London.
Local amenities: Notting Hill is where you’ll find Portobello Road Market, known for its eclectic mix of antiques, fresh produce, and unique market stalls. It’s also home to the Electric – an iconic independent cinema.
6. Chelsea
Chelsea is one of London’s most desirable and elegant neighbourhoods, popular for its charming streets, classic townhouses, and artistic heritage. With a rich cultural past and a modern flair, it offers a blend of sophistication and creativity, making it a top choice for luxury living in London.
Chelsea is generally regarded as a safe and desirable area, with some pockets – like Chelsea Embankment – noted for particularly low crime rates. Supported by strong local policing and premium residential security, parts of Chelsea continue to uphold its reputation as one of the safest areas to live in London.
Many of the luxury residences and apartment buildings in the area are equipped with advanced security systems, concierge services, and private surveillance.
7. Kensington
Kensington combines beautiful architecture, cultural landmarks, and a central location to offer a sophisticated urban lifestyle. With tree-lined avenues, stately homes, and renowned institutions, the area blends heritage with modern convenience.
Despite being a busy and affluent part of London, Kensington maintains a strong sense of safety. While its crime rate is higher than some quieter areas, it remains a secure, luxury place to live. Local security measures, including private surveillance and 24-hour concierges in many buildings, offer an extra layer of safety.
Key highlights:
Transport links: Easy access via the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines through High Street Kensington and Gloucester Road stations.
Local amenities: A hub for luxury shopping and dining along Kensington High Street, plus nearby attractions like the Natural History Museum, V&A, and Kensington Gardens.
London's safest boroughs
London groups its neighbourhoods into areas known as boroughs, which are towns or districts covering multiple neighbourhoods.
As safety ratings in the UK are usually measured by borough, looking at borough-level data gives a broader understanding of neighbourhood safety.
Here are five of London’s safest boroughs, in no particular order.
1. Richmond upon Thames
Nestled along the Thames, Richmond upon Thames combines suburban charm with riverside allure. According to the latest data, the borough records 74 crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of the safest boroughs in London– and certainly one of the greenest. When compared to its bustling urban counterparts, Richmond upon Thames consistently emerges as a haven.
2. Kingston upon Thames
Also on the river and just along from Richmond, Kingston upon Thames offers its own blend of elegance, attracting professionals and families with its lively shopping scene and waterside activities. The borough records 80 crimes per 1,000 residents – 22% lower than London’s overall crime rate.
3. Harrow
Located in northwest London, Harrow offers secure urban living with convenient links to the city. The borough sees 78 crimes per 1,000 residents – 24% lower than London’s overall crime rate. Like Richmond, Harrow is green, vibrant, and well-connected, with a strong sense of community and a wide selection of high-quality schools.
4. Sutton
South London’s Sutton mixes urban convenience and residential calm, with peaceful pockets and strong transport links that make it a popular choice for families and young professionals. The borough records 80 crimes per 1,000 residents – 22% lower than London’s overall crime rate.
5. Bromley
Known for its suburban feel and family-friendly atmosphere, Bromley offers a safe place to live in a diverse, leafy part of London. The borough has a crime rate of 87 crimes per 1,000 people – 15% lower than the London average—and ranks low for many serious and dangerous offences.
Top tips for staying safe in London
Ensuring a secure living experience in London goes beyond choosing the right neighbourhood. For an added layer of safety, take the following precautions:
Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts, including the police, medical services, and your embassy. Having these numbers readily available can prove invaluable in unforeseen situations.
Familiarise yourself with emergency evacuation routes, especially if you reside in a multi-story building.
Choose private student accommodations in London with solid security features, such as secure entry systems, surveillance cameras, and well-trained staff.
Use hotel safes or lockable compartments in your accommodation to keep valuables secure.
Keep an eye on belongings in busy places like Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and the Tube – and avoid flashing them.
Avoid using your mobile phone while walking in central London – phone thefts by snatch-and-grab thieves on bikes and scooters are common.
Try to keep one ear free if you're listening to music or using AirPods in public – staying aware of your surroundings is important.
Stick to well-lit streets when walking after dark and stay in groups.
Avoid unlicensed taxis. Instead, use Black Taxis, especially for late-night journeys. For airport travel, use Addison Lee – our premium choice for cars, taxis and courier services. You can pre-book your pick from the airport here.
Install reliable antivirus software and use secure Wi-Fi connections to safeguard your online activities.
Get involved in local community initiatives and neighbourhood watch programmes. Active community engagement fosters a sense of belonging and contributes to collective safety efforts.
Ask local residents for insights into the safest places to visit, dine, and explore. Locals often know valuable information that may not be readily available in tourist guides.
Understand and respect local customs and cultural norms. Being culturally sensitive can contribute to a positive and secure experience in London.
About Us
At Student Luxe, we prioritise your safety and comfort by offering private accommodation in London’s most secure and luxurious neighbourhoods. With top-tier amenities, flexible booking, and expert support, we’re here to make your stay smooth and worry-free.
Let us help you find your perfect home in the city – we look forward to welcoming you.
