A recent study by London Northwestern Railway (LNR) revealed six of the UK’s cheapest commuter towns and cities.
The experts reviewed the latest ONS data to determine which affordable commuter destinations the nation needs to know about.
1. Rugby
Rugby, in Warwickshire, is a highly sought-after and attractive little market town.
Rugby “has all the essential amenities you could need, including independent retailers, bars and restaurants, supermarkets, two retail parks with top high street stores, attractions and a weekly market selling local fresh produce”.
The rental market is extremely affordable, and people can commute to London in just under an hour.
- Average monthly rent price: £889
- Local train station: Rugby
- Commuting time to London: 57 minutes
2. Coventry
The city of Coventry has a vibrant cultural and arts landscape, a diverse food scene, cheap rent, world-class attractions, and brilliant schools, the experts explained. Coventry has excellent rail and road links, making it the perfect place for London commuters looking for a more affordable place to live.
- Average monthly rent price: £926
- Local train station: Coventry
- Commuting time to London: One hour, 20 minutes
3. Northampton
Northampton has excellent travel links to London and Birmingham, and is a popular commuter destination. The study stated: “From modern apartments to period properties, there’s a good mix of homes catering to a range of tastes”.
And as one of the biggest towns in the UK, it’s home to a wide array of popular amenities like shops, restaurants, bars and attractions.
- Average monthly rent price: £946
- Local train station: Northampton
- Commuting time to London: 50 minutes
4. Long Bucky
Long Buckby is a lively village with a great community spirit, offering a wide range of amenities, including shops, schools, doctor’s surgeries, dentists, a library, post office, pubs and restaurants. According to the study, rent is cheap and housing is varied, so whether looking for a period property or new build, there’s something to suit everyone.
- Average monthly rent price: £946
- Local train station: Long Buckby
- Commuting time to London: One hour, eight minutes
5. Leighton Buzzard
The historic canalside market town based in Bedfordshire is growing in popularity with Londoners looking to up sticks. “With its affordable properties, vast open spaces and plenty of amenities, Leighton Buzzard ticks all the boxes, and tt’s just a 30-minute train ride from central London.”
- Average monthly rent price: £1,090
- Local train station: Leighton Buzzard
- Commuting time to London: 30 minutes
6. Watford
Watford has award-winning green spaces, parks, first class shopping, sport, great schools and a thriving entertainment and music scene. It’s no wonder the city has been named the happiest place to live in the East of England. The experts explained: “It’s a more affordable option than many other parts of Hertfordshire and it takes just 15 minutes by train to get to the capital.”
- Average monthly rent price: £1,661
- Local train station: Watford Junction
- Commuting time to London: 16 minutes