Thinking about moving to Romford? This comprehensive guide covers all the essential aspects to consider, including housing options, cost of living, job prospects, transport links, and more. Whether you’re looking for affordable housing, excellent schools, or vibrant community life, this guide will help you make an informed decision about relocating to Romford. Dive in to discover why Romford might just be the perfect place for your next home.
Key Takeaways
- Romford’s housing market is significantly more affordable compared to Central London, with diverse property options and a promising future for real estate investment.
- While renting in Romford is more affordable than in Central London, the rental market faces challenges such as rising prices and reduced availability, yet it remains a viable option for many.
- Romford boasts excellent transport links, including future enhancements from the upcoming Crossrail, making it an accessible and convenient location for commuters.
Housing Market in Romford
The affordability of Romford’s housing market is a compelling reason to consider this location. With average house prices around £390,000, Romford is significantly cheaper than Central London, where prices soar to an average of £776,533. This affordability makes Romford an attractive option for both first-time buyers and those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Romford offers a diverse range of properties, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer charming Victorian villas or sleek modern flats, Romford has a variety of properties to suit all tastes. The town’s variety is a testament to its rich history and ongoing development. Interestingly, while house prices in Havering saw a slight dip from £436,686 in December 2022 to £423,796 by August 2023, they are projected to rise by 12% to 14% by 2028, making it a sound investment for the future.
First-time buyers are increasingly attracted to Romford, with their numbers rising faster than home-movers. This trend is partly due to financial support from parents, highlighting the town’s affordability for new entrants into the housing market. Whether you’re looking for a starter home or a family residence, Romford’s housing market presents a promising opportunity.
Renting in Romford
For those not ready to buy, renting in Romford is a viable and relatively affordable option compared to Central London. As of 2023, the average rent in Romford stands at £1,628 per calendar month, with one-bedroom properties averaging £980 per month. This is still more affordable than the sky-high rents in Central London, making Romford an attractive destination for renters.
Flats dominate the rental market in Romford, comprising over 60% of available properties. This variety caters to different needs, whether you’re a single professional or a small family. However, the rental market faces challenges, such as an increase in prices by 27% since 2020 and a reduction in available properties by approximately 28%. These changes are driven by increased mortgage costs for landlords, putting upward pressure on rents.
Even with these challenges, Romford provides an affordable and convenient lifestyle for renters. Its proximity to Central London, combined with a vibrant local community, makes Romford an excellent choice for tenants seeking a balanced urban-suburban experience.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Romford, which is relatively cheaper than Central London, attracts those seeking to reduce their daily expenses. One significant advantage is the lower cost of groceries and daily necessities. With budget stores like Lidl and the competitive prices at Romford Market, residents can enjoy reasonably priced food and household items.
Utility costs in Romford are also generally lower than in Central London, providing further savings for residents. Transport costs are another area where Romford shines. Local fares are cheaper, and the comprehensive public transport system offers excellent connectivity, reducing the need for expensive commutes.
Local fares are cheaper, and the comprehensive public transport system offers excellent connectivity …
Overall, the cost of living in Romford is more manageable, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with Central London. This affordability, combined with the town’s amenities and attractions, makes Romford a relatively cheap place to live while still offering a high quality of life.
Employment Opportunities
Romford offers job opportunities across various sectors and skill levels, including:
- Health sector: providing numerous opportunities for medical professionals and support staff
- Administration support
- Education
- Construction
- Logistics
These sectors ensure a wide range of job options in Romford.
The night-time economy in Romford is also vibrant, almost rivalling the day economy. With around 11,000 visits to its pubs, clubs, and bars at night, the town offers numerous job opportunities in the hospitality and entertainment industries. This thriving night-time scene adds a dynamic aspect to Romford’s employment market, appealing to those seeking flexible or part-time work.
Romford’s inclusion in the Green Enterprise District offers several benefits, including:
- Expanded employment opportunities
- Establishment of East London as a hub for green enterprises and low-carbon solutions
- Attraction of businesses and job seekers interested in sustainable development
This initiative aims to promote sustainable growth and create a greener future for the region.
Overall, Romford provides a robust job market with opportunities across various sectors.
Transport Links
Thanks to its comprehensive public transport system, Romford is a well-connected location ideal for commuters. The Romford railway station offers frequent trains to key destinations such as Liverpool Street Station, Stratford, and Southend, providing easy access to major business and leisure hubs. This connectivity is a significant advantage for those who work or frequently travel to Central London.
The Crossrail link has successfully enhanced Romford’s transport links, significantly improving accessibility. Since its launch in March 2021, this new service has brought around 1.5 million more people within 45 minutes of the capital, drastically reducing commute times and increasing convenience. Additionally, Romford is well-connected by major roads like the A12 and junction 28 of the M25, facilitating easy road travel.
Romford’s excellent transport links make it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing accessibility. Whether travelling by train, bus, or car, residents can enjoy seamless connectivity to Central London and beyond, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Education and Schools
With a selection of highly-rated primary and secondary schools, Romford is a desirable destination for families. Of the 29 primary schools in the area, 5 are rated Outstanding, while the rest are rated Good, ensuring quality education for younger children. Notable examples include Ardleigh Green Infant School and Ardleigh Green Junior School in Hornchurch, both of which have received Outstanding ratings from Ofsted.
Secondary education in Romford is equally impressive, with several schools rated as Good by Ofsted. All Saints Catholic School and Technology College in Dagenham, and Redden Court School in Harold Wood, are among the top-rated institutions. Additionally, Newbridge School, an Outstanding-rated special academy, provides excellent support for students aged 2-19 with special educational needs.
With a variety of educational institutions catering to different needs, Romford ensures that families have access to quality schooling options. This focus on education enhances the town’s appeal for families considering relocation.
Leisure and Recreation
With a wealth of leisure and recreational activities available, Romford caters to a wide range of interests and age groups. Nature enthusiasts can explore beautiful parks and nature reserves like Chase Nature Reserve, Hainault Forest Country Park, Gidea Park, and Raphael Park. These locations offer scenic lakeside and woodland walks, as well as a children’s zoo, providing a perfect escape into nature.
For those seeking family-friendly indoor activities, Romford does not disappoint. The Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre is a popular destination, offering premier ice skating facilities and other recreational options. Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy various activities, including greyhound racing, football, ice hockey, and rugby union, making Romford a hub of sporting excitement.
Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, enjoy indoor activities, or participate in sports, Romford provides a wide array of options. This diversity in leisure and recreation ensures that there’s always something entertaining and exciting to do.
Shopping and Dining
Boasting one of London’s largest retail sectors, Romford promises a varied shopping experience. The town centre boasts three main shopping centres:
- The busy Liberty Shopping Centre – features a wide range of high-street retailers, restaurants, and cafes, catering to all your retail therapy needs.
- The Mercury Mall – enhances Romford’s shopping landscape with its variety of stores and leisure facilities.
- The Brewery – further enhances Romford’s shopping landscape with its variety of stores and leisure facilities.
Dining in Romford is equally diverse, with options to suit every palate. Some popular restaurants include:
- Veyso’s Restaurant: offers a delightful mix of Mediterranean and British meals
- Mangal Meze: specialises in traditional Turkish dishes
- Kervan Kitchen: also specialises in traditional Turkish dishes
- Smokin’ Griddle: known for their American-style burgers
These dining establishments, known as Great Country Pubs North, provide a range of tasty food nicely presented, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience.
Romford’s bustling market town charm is complemented by its extensive shopping and dining options in Romford’s town centre. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree or a culinary adventure, Romford has something for everyone.
Safety and Community
In Romford, safety and a strong sense of community are cornerstones of daily life. The town offers:
- A generally safe environment during the day
- Active participation in Safer Neighbourhood initiatives to enhance safety
- A sense of personal responsibility and community vigilance
These factors contribute to a secure environment for all residents.
The Havering Council supports various campaigns to prevent violence against women and girls, such as White Ribbon Day and 16 Days of Action. The community safety teams in Romford and Harold Hill also back the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, promoting safety and awareness. Additionally, Romford hosts drop-in events with the police and TfL to promote safety during the holiday season.
Romford’s commitment to safety is further demonstrated through partnerships with the Greater London Authority, local authorities, the Safer Neighbourhood Board, police, and Havering Women’s Aid.
These partnerships help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike on Heath Park Road, as well as on South Street.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
The charm of Romford is enhanced by its rich cultural and historical heritage. Some of the notable attractions include:
- The historic Romford Market, established in 1247 by Henry III, remains a significant local attraction, maintaining its traditional marketplace atmosphere. This market is a testament to Romford’s long-standing community and agricultural roots.
- Havering Museum, located on the historic site of the old Romford Brewing Company, offers a glimpse into the town’s brewing heritage.
- The Church of St Edward the Confessor, with elements dating back to 1410, is another cultural gem near Romford Market.
These attractions provide a window into Romford’s past, enriching the town’s cultural landscape.
FUN FACT
Beyond the town, the Essex countryside offers additional historical and cultural attractions, making Romford an attractive day trip spot. From traditional countryside venues to great country pubs, there’s plenty to explore in and around this Essex suburban town that lies in the heart of Romford.
Summary
In summary, Romford presents a unique blend of affordability, accessibility, and vibrant community life. The town’s housing market offers a variety of options at reasonable prices, while the cost of living remains lower than in Central London. Employment opportunities are diverse, and the transport links ensure excellent connectivity. Romford’s educational institutions, leisure activities, shopping and dining options, safety initiatives, and cultural attractions make it an ideal place to call home. If you’re considering a move, Romford leads the pack as a compelling option that promises a fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How affordable is the housing market in Romford compared to Central London?
Housing in Romford is much more affordable compared to Central London, with average prices around £390,000, which is significantly lower than the £776,533 average in Central London.
What are the average rent prices in Romford?
The average rent in Romford is £1,628 per month, with one-bedroom properties averaging £980 per month.
What kind of employment opportunities are available in Romford?
Romford provides diverse employment opportunities in sectors such as health, administration, education, construction, and logistics, as well as a thriving night-time economy and participation in the Green Enterprise District. These offer a range of potential career paths for job seekers.
How good are the schools in Romford?
The schools in Romford are well-rated, with several primary and secondary schools, such as Ardleigh Green Infant School and Ardleigh Green Junior School, being rated as Outstanding by Ofsted.
What leisure and recreational activities are available in Romford?
Romford offers a range of leisure activities, such as enjoying the beautiful parks like Chase Nature Reserve and Hainault Forest Country Park, indoor activities at the Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre, and popular sports like greyhound racing and football.
