Finding somewhere to live in London that's both affordable and within easy reach of your workplace can be a challenge. If you work in London's major business districts - The City, Westminster, King's Cross, Canary Wharf or London Bridge - you're one of many commuters who have to travel into or close to central London to get to work every day.
But it doesn't have to be a slog. Here we've shortlisted five areas in London where property prices are considered more affordable and the transport links are quick and easy.
You work in The City...
Deptford
Deptford to London Cannon Street ≈ 13 minutes
If you work in the City and you're looking for an area to live in where you can enjoy a quick commute, Deptford is a great option.
Neighbouring Greenwich, but unlike the picturesque royal borough, there aren't any Royal Parks in Deptford and the area doesn't quite have the same olde worlde charm. However, those looking for a property will find lower average property prices than those in Greenwich and there are a number of new developments for those looking for a low maintenance home.
Deptford Station is also only one stop from London Bridge and there is a DLR service from Deptford Bridge that offers a simple route to Canary Wharf.
You work in Westminster...
Wembley
Wembley to Westminster ≈ 20 minutes
Wembley has a wide range of affordable properties and because it's currently undergoing a huge transformation, there will be plenty of future growth too. It's definitely an area to consider if you're looking to buy a new home in 2018.
For those commuting to Westminster, the most straightforward way to get there is to catch the Jubilee line at Wembley Park, which arrives at Westminster in just under 25 minutes. But Wembley's residents can enjoy a quicker commute if they use the Metropolitan line and change at Finchley Road - for a journey of under 20 minutes.
There are also services to Marylebone from Wembley Stadium and to Euston from Wembley Central, meaning there's plenty of choice for those living in Wembley and commuting to central London.
You work in King's Cross...
Wood Green
Wood Green to King's Cross in ≈ 13 mins
Camden and Islington come in at number three on the list of London's largest business districts and King's Cross sits right in the middle of these vibrant areas. Fairly easy to reach from all parts of London, King's Cross is a convenient place to work. But from Wood Green, you could enjoy a commute of around only 15 minutes.
Just a short distance from Alexandra Palace and Crouch End for weekend strolls, Wood Green has everything residents need day to day and has risen in popularity over the past couple of years mainly due to its convenient location.
Wood Green may be less pretty that some of the surrounding neighbourhoods, but what it lacks in charm, it makes up for in convenience.
Situated on the Piccadilly line and also close to Hornsey Station – which has services to Moorgate and Old Street if you work in the City – Wood Green has a good range of transport links.
You work in Canary Wharf...
Poplar
Poplar to Canary Wharf ≈ 5 minutes
Poplar may be overshadowed by the luxurious backdrop of Canary Wharf's exclusive developments, but it is a serious contender as one of the best places to live if you're working in Canary Wharf and looking for an affordable home.
The area is mostly dominated by modern developments and purpose-built blocks, but you can find houses in the areas around Poplar High Street too.
While Poplar may not be as sought-after as nearby Canary Wharf, a walkable commute or a DLR journey to One Canada Square in just a couple of minutes, means you're not far from where you'll be spending most of your day.
You work in London Bridge...
Brockley
Brockley to London Bridge in 13 minutes
Nearby Nunhead was recently chosen as one of our undiscovered buyer hotspots in London 2018, with Brockley remaining under the radar too, for now.
While nearby New Cross has enjoyed time in the spotlight over the past few years, mainly due to its popularity with the university students and London's alternative crowds, Brockley is not to be overlooked.
Independent coffee shops, quaint parks and quiet roads lined with mostly period properties make Brockley popular with families and those looking for a slightly quieter area to set up home.
As well as speedy links to London Bridge, Brockley's residents can take advantage of services to Canada Water for Canary Wharf or London Bridge and further on to trendy parts of east London like Whitechapel and Shoreditch.
Still on the look out for a budget-friendly rental? Read Cheapest Places to Live in London
Update: with the Elizabeth Line coming up, more locations are coming on the map. Areas like Woolwich are on the rise, check out Plumstead New Build.