Why move to Croydon? Discover the top reasons to move to Croydon, from affordable housing and great transport to a lively town centre. Croydon offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, providing excellent amenities, green spaces, and a thriving job market. With its rich cultural scene, diverse dining options, and family-friendly environment, Croydon is an ideal place for people of all ages to call home.
Key Takeaways
- Croydon is an affordable London borough with great housing schemes for first-time buyers and reasonable rental prices.
- Excellent transport links make commuting easy, with direct connections to central London, major airports, and various destinations.
- The vibrant town centre, diverse food options, and rich cultural scene provide plenty of entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences.
Affordable Housing Options
One of the most compelling reasons to move to Croydon is its affordable housing. With the average property price at £443,931, it offers a much more budget-friendly option compared to many other London boroughs. This affordability extends to rentals too, with average rental prices sitting at £1,286. This makes Croydon an attractive option for both buyers and renters looking for value without compromising on quality.
First-time buyers will find several schemes in Croydon that facilitate homeownership. These include:
- The FIRST STEPS shared ownership, which allows you to buy a minimum of 25% of a new or refurbished home while paying a subsidised rent on the remaining portion.
- Resales are available through FIRST STEPS, offering previously owned shared ownership homes on a part-buy, part-rent basis.
- The Rent to Buy scheme, which offers newly built homes at 20% below market rates with the option to buy later.
These schemes make Croydon a practical and appealing choice for new homeowners.
Excellent Transport Links
Croydon’s transport links are nothing short of exceptional. The borough is well-connected with a comprehensive network of buses, trams, and trains. East Croydon Station, one of the busiest non-terminal stations in the country, is a major hub with services to destinations including Brighton, East Grinstead, and Uckfield. The station also has a Tramlink stop right outside, connecting passengers to places like Wimbledon, Beckenham Junction, and New Addington. In addition to East Croydon, West Croydon also offers excellent transport options for residents and visitors alike.
Residing in Central Croydon places you in Travel Zone 5, providing straightforward access to central London through train services to Victoria and London Bridge. This makes commuting a breeze, whether you’re heading to work or exploring the city’s many attractions. The town centre is just a short walk away from the station, adding to the convenience.
Additionally, due to its strategic location, Croydon provides superb connections to major airports like Gatwick and London Luton, serving as an excellent base for regular flyers. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, you’ll find the transport links in Croydon to be both reliable and convenient.
Vibrant Town Centre
Croydon’s vibrant Croydon Town Centre is the beating heart of the borough. Here, you’ll find a diverse mix of shopping centres, independent boutiques, and entertainment venues catering to all tastes and preferences. Centrale Shopping Centre, for instance, offers a wide range of retailers, from fashion and beauty to electronics and homeware. It’s a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
For those who enjoy a more eclectic shopping experience, Boxpark Croydon is a must-visit. This unique venue combines independent boutiques with a variety of food stalls and entertainment options, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or simply want to enjoy some live music and great food, Croydon’s town centre has it all.
Green Spaces and Parks
Beyond its urban appeal, South Croydon, a part of South London, also prides itself on an impressive selection of green spaces and parks. Places like Lloyd Park and South Norwood Country Park offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. These parks provide a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing residents to enjoy fresh air and nature.
With such a variety of parks and recreational areas, Croydon ensures that residents have plenty of options to stay active …
Other notable green spaces include Wandle Park and Whitgift Green Space, which are perfect for leisurely strolls or family picnics. With such a variety of parks and recreational areas, Croydon ensures that residents have plenty of options to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Rich Cultural Scene
With a rich and diverse cultural scene, Croydon hosts a variety of events, performances, and festivals celebrating its heritage and artistic talent. Fairfield Halls is a central hub for culture in Croydon, hosting everything from concerts and comedy shows to international performances. Recently, the Ukraine National Symphony Orchestra performed here, highlighting the venue’s significance for international events.
The borough’s cultural celebrations are further enhanced by its status as the London Borough of Culture 2023. This includes a cross-cultural program featuring events like the Oratorio of Hope and the Music Heritage Trail, which showcase local and international talent alike. Whether you’re a fan of music, theatre, or visual arts, Croydon’s cultural scene has something for everyone.
Diverse Food and Dining Options
Croydon’s diverse dining options are sure to delight food enthusiasts. The borough’s Restaurant Quarter is renowned for its variety of international cuisines, including:
- Italian
- Indian
- Japanese
- Mexican
This culinary diversity ensures that there’s something to satisfy every palate and craving.
Boxpark Croydon is another popular spot, housing numerous food stalls and restaurants under one roof. It’s an ideal place to sample a wide array of dishes while enjoying live entertainment.
For those who love street food, Surrey Street Market offers a range of delicious options from different cultures, reflecting the borough’s rich diversity.
Family-Friendly Environment
As a safe and family-friendly borough, Croydon is a perfect place for raising children. The area boasts a range of ‘Outstanding’ rated schools, catering to both primary and secondary education. Many of these schools have been highly praised by Ofsted, reflecting the strong educational environment in the borough. These schools provide excellent education and a nurturing environment for children to thrive.
In addition to its excellent schools, Croydon is a safe place to live, with very low crime rates compared to other parts of London. The community-focused atmosphere and numerous activities for children further enhance Croydon’s appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Thriving Job Market
With a thriving and diverse job market, Croydon offers abundant opportunities across a range of sectors. Employment in Croydon increased in 2023, with a rate of 76.9%, which is higher than the London average. This growth is reflected in the number of people employed in the borough, which stands at around 206,000.
The retail, finance, and legal industries are particularly notable for providing job opportunities in Croydon. This diverse job market makes the borough an attractive option for professionals looking to advance their careers. The strong economic activity and low unemployment rate further underscore Croydon’s position as a hub for local talent.
Historical Significance
With a history that traces back to the Norman conquest, Croydon is steeped in historical significance. This ancient parish in the Wallington Hundred of Surrey was home to a church, a mill, and about 365 inhabitants. Over the centuries, Croydon evolved into a market town known for its charcoal production, leather tanning, and brewing.
One of the most iconic historical sites in Croydon is Surrey Street Market, which dates back to 1276 and remains one of Britain’s oldest street markets. Additionally, landmarks like the Surrey Iron Railway and the Croydon Canal highlight the borough’s rich industrial heritage.
Proximity to Major Destinations
Croydon’s strategic location, facilitating easy access to major destinations, is one of its greatest advantages. East Croydon Station provides direct services to both Gatwick Airport and London Luton Airport, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. Local bus services, such as Metrobus, also facilitate travel to Gatwick Airport.
For those who frequently travel to central London or the South Coast, Croydon is well-connected, making it an ideal base for commuters. The borough’s excellent transport links and proximity to major airports further enhance its appeal as a convenient and accessible location.
Entertainment and Nightlife
With a vibrant and varied entertainment and nightlife scene, Croydon has something to offer everyone. The borough is home to a variety of cool bars and great pubs, such as The Spread Eagle Pub Theatre and The Oval Tavern, which are known for their live music events. These venues provide a unique blend of traditional pub atmosphere and lively entertainment.
For those who enjoy dancing, Croydon hosts several nightclubs catering to different music tastes. Live entertainment is also abundant, with venues like Matthews Yard hosting art, music, and cultural events. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a cultural experience, Croydon’s nightlife has it all.
Unique Shopping Experience
Croydon offers a unique and diverse shopping experience. The borough is home to several major shopping centres, including the Whitgift Centre and Centrale Shopping Centre, which offer a wide range of stores from fashion to electronics. These centres provide a comprehensive retail therapy experience for residents and visitors alike.
For those who prefer a more eclectic shopping experience, St George’s Walk and Boxpark Croydon are must-visit destinations. St George’s Walk is a pedestrianised area with shops, cafes, and entertainment venues, offering a charming and relaxed shopping atmosphere. Boxpark Croydon combines independent boutiques with food and entertainment, creating a lively and dynamic space for shoppers.
Sports and Recreation
With numerous sports and recreational facilities, Croydon is a haven for sports enthusiasts and those keen on maintaining an active lifestyle. Selhurst Park is the home of Crystal Palace Football Club, and it is considered a key highlight of the area. The borough also boasts various leisure centres offering facilities for swimming, fitness classes, and indoor sports.
Additionally, South Norwood Lake and Grounds, as well as Thornton Heath, provide opportunities for fishing, while youth sports programs engage younger residents in physical activities. With such a wide range of options, Croydon ensures that residents can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.
Summary
Croydon offers an attractive blend of affordability, excellent transport links, and a vibrant community. The borough’s rich cultural scene, diverse dining options, and numerous green spaces make it appealing to all ages. With family-friendly amenities, a thriving job market, and convenient access to major destinations, Croydon stands out as an ideal place to call home. Its mix of modern amenities and historical significance provides a dynamic living experience. so
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top reasons to move to Croydon?
Croydon offers affordable housing, excellent transport links, a vibrant town centre, diverse food options, and a rich cultural scene. These factors make it an attractive place to live for people of all ages.
Is Croydon a good place for families?
Yes, Croydon is a family-friendly borough with a range of ‘Outstanding’ rated schools, numerous parks and green spaces, and a safe community-focused atmosphere.
How does Croydon compare to other London boroughs in terms of affordability?
Croydon is more budget-friendly compared to many other London boroughs. With average property prices and rental rates lower than the London average, it offers great value without compromising on quality.
What transport options are available in Croydon?
Croydon boasts excellent transport links, including a comprehensive network of buses, trams, and trains. East Croydon Station provides direct connections to central London, major airports, and various destinations.
What kind of cultural and entertainment options does Croydon offer?
Croydon has a rich cultural scene with venues like Fairfield Halls and Boxpark Croydon, hosting concerts, comedy shows, and international performances. The town centre also offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
