If you’re moving to South London, there are so many great areas to explore. Whether you’re moving to South London for the first time or looking for somewhere new, it can be tricky to know where to start.
Maybe you want the excitement of London without the high price tags. Or maybe you’re looking for a community feel without too much big-city hustle and bustle.
Whatever you’re looking for, here are our top 12 South London spots that should be on your list of places to explore.
At J Property Management, we are experts in South London property management. With help hundreds of tenants find the right South London rental to meet their needs. Want to join our tenant database for the perfect rental match? Contact us today.
Top 12 South London Locations for Renters
1. Tooting
Tooting offers a unique blend of affordability, diverse cultural offerings and convenient transport links. From vibrant markets like Broadway Market to south Asian restaurants, there are plenty of opportunities to sample some of the best international food in London.
It has also become a popular place for young adults in recent years, largely thanks to its bustling restaurant scene and hip bars. Home to the UK’s largest freshwater open-air swimming pool it is also the perfect place for people to gather on a sunny day.
When it comes to rental properties, Tooting has a range of different housing options available – from Victorian houses to new builds. Whether you’re looking to rent as a solo renter, a family or a couple, Tooting could be a great option.
2. Clapham
Clapham is one of the most popular areas for renters in South London. Not only does it boast excellent transport links into central London (with three underground stations and an overground line), it has a mix of tranquil green spaces and a lively nightlife scene – making it attractive to families and young people alike.
If you love to have a lot going on around you, Clapham is home to tons of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs so there’s rarely a dull moment. It also has plenty of cultural offerings, including theatres and cinemas.
For families, Clapham has ample green spaces, like Clapham Common, great schools and is known for being one of South London’s safest areas.
For renters, Clapham offers a range of different housing types whether you’re looking for a more modern flat or a period house. It also caters to a range of different budgets.
3. Brixton
Brixton boasts a strong community feel, vibrant multiculturalism and a lively atmosphere. Not only that, but with easy access into central London, via overground, underground and bus, it is one of the most well-connected areas to rent in South London.
One of the reasons that Brixton is so unique is due to its rich cultural offering. Home to many cultures, it has a strong Caribbean heritage, notable in the street market and music scene. It’s also a great place to try foods of all different international cuisines.
A popular area in South London for renters, prices have increased in recent years – largely thanks to its proximity to central London and vibrant atmosphere. However, there are still a range of affordable options for renters looking to move to South London.
4. Sutton
If you’re moving to South London on a budget, Sutton is an affordable choice with a lower cost-of-living than other London areas.
Sutton has three main train stations so is well connected for those needing to get into the city centre. It also has a range of excellent schools, plenty of green space and a low crime rate, making it a popular choice for families or people wanting to settle down.
5. Dulwich
Dulwich has great transport links, reaching Victoria and London Bridge in just 15 minutes. Even though it’s so close to the city centre, this area of South London offers a peaceful lifestyle with a community, village-like feel.
From green spaces like Dulwich Park and Dulwich Woods to cosy pubs and local shops, it is easy to feel at home in Dulwich. Its attractive residential streets, ample offers of restaurants and pubs and various sports clubs make it a great place to settle down in South London.
It is also a comparatively affordable area, with generally lower property prices and rents across a range of different budgets.

6. Balham
If you’re looking for great transport links to Central London with a blend of family-friendly spots and a great entertainment scene, Balham is a good option for renters moving to South London.
With National Rail and the Underground available, you can be in Central London in no time. In Balham, you can experience the proximity of the city with a calmer, quieter pace of life.
Balham is a popular spot for solo renters, couples or young professionals in South London due to its lively social scene, with plenty of pubs, late-night options and music and comedy gigs. Its green spaces, well-reputed schools and range of activities make it appealing for families looking to rent, too.
7. Crystal Palace
An affordable area for renters in South London, Crystal Palace has a unique community-like feel and has a range of events and festivals throughout the year.
With a lower-than-usual cost of living, including slightly cheaper rent prices, transport costs and groceries than other areas of London, Crystal Palace is a good option for renters looking to save money while being close to Central London.
Thanks to its green spaces, year-round events and range of dining options, renters in Crystal Palace have plenty of ways to keep busy and enjoy life in South London.
8. Richmond
With its abundant green spaces, riverside views and roaming deer, it is sometimes hard to believe that Richmond is in London! But it is just a quick tube, overground train or bus away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Richmond is located right on the river Thames, providing a peaceful backdrop for renters of all ages. From long runs and leisurely walks through the park to afternoons in riverside pubs, Richmond is one of South London’s most peaceful zones.
It has a rich history and a unique village-like feel – attracting solo renters, young professionals and also families.
It is also home to Richmond Park, Richmond Palace and the world-famous Kew Gardens.
9. Peckham
Peckham is known as one of the more affordable areas in South London for renters. It is home to a lively cultural scene and especially great for art-lovers thanks to its galleries, artistic events and creative spaces. There is always something going on. It also offers a range of amenities with a growing foodie scene.
The well-connected Peckham Rye station makes it easy to get to other parts of London. Peckham is also a good choice for students moving to South London due to its proximity to the University of the Arts London.
10. Herne Hill
Herne hill is an affordable South London spot with great transport links and a village-like vibe. With direct access to Victoria and Blackfriars, as well as buses to different parts of London, it’s a well-connected location for those seeking a more relaxed environment.
From Victorian homes to modern blocks of flats, Herne Hill appeals to a range of different renters. With cafes, restaurants and local shops, there’s plenty to keep renters busy. It’s also a great choice for outdoor lovers thanks to Brockwell Park and Ruskin Park.
11. Deptford
Located in zone 2, it is one of the best located spots for renters moving to South London. Deptford has undergone a huge regeneration in recent years and now has a great deal of cultural, entertainment and dining options.
It is still one of the more affordable South London locations for renters and, thanks to ongoing development projects, has a whole host of new homes and housing options.
12. Croydon
Croydon offers an affordable option for renters in South London while still benefitting from easy transport links, including direct lines to London Bridge and Victoria. An up-and-coming area in recent years, it has plenty of amenities and attractions including numerous entertainment venues and Boxpark Croydon.
With a range of different rental options, including family homes and new-build flats, it is a welcoming place with a strong sense of local community.
Move to South London with J Property Management
If you’re moving to South London, why not join our tenant database? We are experts in South London property management and tenant sourcing, working with a range of landlords and tenants to find the right rental to suit your needs. Contact us today to join!


