By our in-house Property & Housing Correspondent
London’s housing and relocation patterns underwent a clear and sustained shift in 2025/26. Changing work habits, affordability pressures and evolving lifestyle priorities are influencing where people choose to live, both within London and beyond. New data and industry insight point to rising movement out of inner boroughs, strong demand in outer London, and a continued surge in relocations to commuter towns - driving increased demand for professional London removals and relocations services.
According to the Office for National Statistics Inner London has continued to experience net outward migration amongst people aged 30-49, a demographic typically associated with starting their family and long-term housing purchases. Property platforms such as Rightmove and Zoopla have also reported stronger demand for houses in the outer London boroughs and commuter locations compared with inner-city properties.
A spokesperson for a popular London removals company agrees that the trend reflects a broader reset in priorities. “People still want access to London for work and culture, but they are no longer willing to compromise on space and quality of life. We’re seeing many more outer London relocations than in previous years.”
Inner London: Cost Pressures Drive Moves Outward
In 2025 London boroughs such as Camden, Islington, Hackney, Westminster, and Tower Hamlets saw high levels of outward movement. These areas remain popular with renters, students, and international residents, but longer-term tenants are increasingly relocating elsewhere.
ONS rental market data shows that average private rental costs in Inner London rose again during late 2025, while service charges on new build properties have continued to increase. Combined with smaller living spaces and the return of pre-pandemic congestion, many people are questioning whether inner-city living still offers value for money.
“Many of the moves we handle now involve people leaving inner London altogether rather than moving locally,” the spokesperson explains. “Families in particular are deciding that paying a premium for a central location doesn’t make sense if they only commute a few days a week.”
Outer London Attracts Long-Term Movers
Rather than leaving the capital entirely, many Londoners are choosing to relocate to outer boroughs that offer more space, a slower pace of life, but remain well connected. Richmond upon Thames, Greenwich, Waltham Forest, Bromley, Ealing, and Haringey are amongst the areas benefiting from this current shift.
Rightmove search data from early 2025 indicates that demand for houses in outer London remains strong, reflecting the desire for gardens, additional bedrooms and access to green space. These moves are increasingly long-term in nature.
“Outer London now accounts for a significant share of our London removal bookings,” the spokesperson says. “These are typically full house moves, which suggests people are setting down roots rather than making short-term relocations.”
Commuter Town Relocations Continue to Rise
One of the most notable trends of 2025 is the growth in relocations from London to commuter towns within a 60-minute rail journey distance. Locations such as St Albans, Reading, Maidenhead, Sevenoaks, Loughton, and Chelmsford continue to attract London-based buyers.
Zoopla reports that demand in these towns has remained resilient, supported by hybrid working arrangements that reduce the need for daily commuting. Buyers are often able to secure larger homes with gardens at prices well below comparable properties in London.
“Many clients tell us they’re gaining space without having to sacrifice their careers,” the spokesperson says. “From a London relocations perspective, these moves tend to be more complex and often involve assisted packing services, storage needs, and careful coordination around property chains.”
Flat-to-House Moves Reflect Hybrid Working
The ongoing normalisation of remote and hybrid work is reshaping housing choices across London. ONS labour market data shows flexible working remains widespread in professional roles, reducing the importance of living close to a central office.
As a result, flats, in particular smaller city apartments are becoming less attractive for long-term living. Limited storage, noise issues, and high service charges are prompting many households to move into houses that can accommodate dedicated workspaces.
“We’re increasingly moving more home office furniture and equipment for our customers. This has become a standard part of London removals in 2025.”
Lifestyle Factors Play a Bigger Role
Beyond work, lifestyle considerations are increasingly influencing relocation decisions. Access to local parks, good schools, quieter neighbourhoods, and local amenities has become a priority, particularly for families and young professionals.
ONS wellbeing research consistently links shorter commutes and access to green space with higher life satisfaction - factors that are clearly shaping where Londoners choose to live.
Moving house is no longer just about the property, it’s about how comfortable and enjoyable people want their daily lives to be.
What This Means for the Property and Removals Sectors
These trends are reshaping both the property market and the removals industry. Inner London rental growth has moderated, while outer boroughs and commuter towns continue to see competition for family homes. Longer property chains and complex logistics are increasing the importance of experienced London removals providers.
Professional firms are responding by expanding their long-distance services, offering full house packing solutions, and helping customers to navigate tight moving schedules with their many complexities such as parking restrictions and low-emission zones.
Outlook for Late 2025 early 2026
As the year progresses London’s relocation patterns suggest a lasting structural change rather than a short-term fluctuation. The capital remains central to opportunity but residents are redefining what they expect from their homes.
“London relocations are far more intentional now,” the spokesperson concludes. “People know what they want, and they expect their move to support the lifestyle they’re building next.”