London is a thriving city, with a lot to offer to anyone living there. However, it does have its downsides, with one of the most noticeable being the high cost of living. It is also a city with a rich history, diverse culture and countless activities and events to entertain its inhabitants.
When making any big change, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons and ensure you’re making the right choice. With this in mind, here are some of the main pros and cons of moving to London in 2021.
Food And Drink
The variety of food and drink options in London is phenomenal. There are restaurants to cater to any dietary needs and cuisines from all corners of the globe. Thanks to the multicultural nature of the city, many of these dining experiences are entirely authentic. There are also thousands and options for drinks available, from nightclubs to traditional bars to alcohol-free spaces.
Job Opportunities
London is one of the biggest job hubs in the UK. There are job opportunities in many sectors to be found there, and some of the highest wages in the UK are in London. It is best to start looking for work well before your move to ensure you find the right fit.
Nightlife
London’s nightlife is legendary. There are nightclubs, bars and pubs to suit all tastes, ranging from chic Soho bars to hard rock pubs in Camden Town. Often, clubs and bars in London will be open until the very small hours, and it’s not unheard of to watch partygoers head home on the same train as people on their morning commute!
Downsizing
When moving to London, you will likely need to downsize. With the city being so crowded, roomier properties come at a premium. Looking for something smaller, at least initially, can be beneficial. If you’re worried about what you’ll do with all your beloved things, you could consider the self-storage options from Safestore, which have units for every budget. Always choose a trustworthy storage facility like Safestore to have the peace of mind that your things will be secure.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living can be off-putting for those considering a move to London. While the attractions of London are undeniable, everything is more expensive there. Transport, while excellent, is costly, food and drink prices are higher than elsewhere in the UK, and rent prices can get extreme. You should carefully review your finances to be confident you can afford to make the move. Consider renting a place with friends to help reduce the cost.
Tourists
As England’s capital city, London sees a lot of visitors each year. This can have both positives and negatives. Some of the positives include meeting people from all over the world and all walks of life and learning about different cultures. As a London newcomer, you can also take advantage of some guided tours aimed at tourists to help you find your feet. On the downside, it can make London very crowded at times, which can be particularly frustrating if you’re running late to work!
History
London has an incredible past, with plenty of museums and historical landmarks to help you learn more about the city and the wider country. There are castles, palaces and cathedrals that will take your breath away.
Conclusion
Moving anywhere can come with upsides and downsides. It is always important to weigh the positives with the negatives when making any move. London has a lot to offer anyone considering the move, but it is crucial that you carefully consider the financial side of things. It can also be lonely moving to a new area, so finding ways to set up a support system before you get there can be invaluable.
We’re very proud to bring you this feature in association with Safestore. For more articles, please pay a visit to our lifestyle page.
