Haringey is one of London’s most diverse, fast-changing, and culturally rich boroughs. Stretching from the leafy heights of Highgate and Muswell Hill down to the energy and regeneration of Tottenham, the borough offers an unusually wide range of lifestyles within a single postcode area.
For families, professionals, creatives, and first-time buyers, Haringey has become increasingly attractive thanks to strong transport links, green spaces, varied housing stock, and long-term regeneration. This comprehensive guide explores the best areas to live in Haringey, helping you decide which neighbourhood best suits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans.
Why Haringey Is One Of North London’s Most Interesting Boroughs
Haringey sits in North London, bordering boroughs such as Enfield, Barnet, Islington, Hackney, and Waltham Forest. What makes it unique is how dramatically the character of the borough changes from south to north.
Diversity Of Neighbourhoods
Few London boroughs offer such contrast:
- Victorian village atmospheres
- Bustling high streets
- Regeneration zones
- Quiet, green, family-friendly suburbs
You can move just a mile or two and feel like you’re in a completely different part of London.
Transport Connectivity
Haringey is exceptionally well connected:
- Victoria line
- Piccadilly line
- Overground services
- National Rail routes
- Excellent bus coverage
This makes commuting into central London, the City, and Canary Wharf relatively straightforward.
Regeneration And Growth
Major regeneration projects, especially in Tottenham, are reshaping perceptions of the borough. Investment in housing, public spaces, schools, and infrastructure continues to attract new residents and businesses.
Crouch End
Best for: Professionals, creatives, families, village atmosphere lovers
Crouch End is often considered one of Haringey’s most desirable neighbourhoods. It combines a strong community feel with excellent amenities and a lively cultural scene.
Character And Lifestyle
Crouch End feels like a self-contained village. It is known for:
- Independent cafés and restaurants
- Local shops and bookstores
- Cinemas, theatres, and live music venues
- A strong sense of community
The area attracts creatives, professionals, and families who value character over uniformity.
Housing Stock
Homes in Crouch End are largely:
- Victorian and Edwardian houses
- Converted flats
- Period terraces with original features
Properties tend to be well maintained, though prices reflect the area’s popularity.
Transport Considerations
Crouch End does not have its own Underground station, but residents rely on:
- Nearby stations such as Finsbury Park or Hornsey
- Frequent bus routes
This is one of the few drawbacks, though many residents feel the lifestyle compensates for it.
Muswell Hill
Best for: Families, space seekers, long-term homeowners
Muswell Hill consistently ranks as one of North London’s most family-friendly areas.
Green And Spacious Living
The area is characterised by:
- Wide, tree-lined streets
- Large Edwardian homes
- Proximity to Alexandra Palace and Park
The elevated position offers impressive views across London, contributing to its appeal.
Schools And Education
Muswell Hill is particularly popular with families due to:
- Strong primary and secondary schools
- Access to both state and independent education
- A calm, residential environment
Transport
While Muswell Hill lacks a Tube station, it is served by:
- Bus routes to Highgate, Finsbury Park, and East Finchley
- Rail links from nearby stations
For families prioritising space and education, Muswell Hill remains one of the best places to live in Haringey.
Highgate
Best for: Professionals, historic charm, green living
Highgate straddles the boundary between Haringey and neighbouring boroughs but retains a strong identity within Haringey.
Village Feel
Highgate offers:
- Historic buildings
- A traditional village centre
- Independent pubs and restaurants
- Proximity to Hampstead Heath and Highgate Wood
It feels more like a countryside village than a London neighbourhood.
Housing
Homes include:
- Period houses
- Converted flats
- Boutique developments
Prices are among the highest in the borough, reflecting Highgate’s desirability.
Transport
Highgate Underground station on the Northern line provides direct access to central London, making it ideal for professionals.
Hornsey
Best for: Commuters, families, balanced living
Hornsey sits between Crouch End and Muswell Hill and offers a more affordable alternative to both.
Everyday Convenience
Hornsey has:
- A strong local high street
- Independent shops and cafés
- Easy access to green spaces
- A growing food and coffee scene
Housing Mix
Housing ranges from:
- Victorian terraces
- Purpose-built flats
- Modern developments near transport hubs
This variety makes Hornsey appealing to a broad demographic.
Transport Links
Hornsey benefits from:
- National Rail services to Moorgate
- Good bus connections
Commute times are competitive, making it popular with working professionals.
Tottenham Hale
Best for: Young professionals, renters, regeneration-focused buyers
Tottenham Hale has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in North London.
Regeneration And Development
The area now features:
- Modern apartment buildings
- Improved public spaces
- New retail and leisure facilities
- Increased employment opportunities
Transport Hub
Tottenham Hale is one of the best-connected areas in the borough:
- Victoria line Underground
- National Rail services
- Fast links to central London and Stansted Airport
This connectivity makes it particularly attractive to commuters.
Things To Consider
- Still evolving
- Some areas feel more urban than residential
- Limited period housing
Tottenham Hale suits people looking for modern living and strong future growth potential.
Tottenham
Best for: Value seekers, community-focused living, long-term growth
Tottenham is often misunderstood, but it is one of Haringey’s most dynamic and improving areas.
Community And Culture
Tottenham has:
- A strong multicultural identity
- Independent businesses and markets
- Community initiatives and cultural events
This gives the area a unique character within North London.
Housing Affordability
Compared to other parts of Haringey:
- Prices remain relatively accessible
- There is strong potential for appreciation
- A mix of terraces, estates, and new developments
Regeneration Impact
Investment in Tottenham continues to improve:
- Housing quality
- Public spaces
- Transport infrastructure
Tottenham appeals to buyers and renters willing to look beyond outdated reputations.
Seven Sisters
Best for: Commuters, renters, connectivity
Seven Sisters is one of Haringey’s most transport-connected areas.
Transport Strength
Seven Sisters station offers:
- Victoria line Underground
- Overground services
- Numerous bus routes
This makes it ideal for people working across London.
Housing And Lifestyle
The area features:
- Victorian terraces
- Flats above shops
- Purpose-built developments
Seven Sisters is busy and energetic, suiting those who prefer an urban environment.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living In Haringey
Haringey is one of the greenest boroughs in North London, offering:
- Alexandra Park
- Highgate Wood
- Downhills Park
- Lordship Recreation Ground
Access to green space significantly improves quality of life, particularly for families and dog owners.
Safety And Liveability
Safety varies by neighbourhood and even by street. Generally:
- Muswell Hill and Highgate are perceived as quieter
- Crouch End offers a balanced, safe environment
- Tottenham and Seven Sisters are improving but remain busier
Researching specific streets and visiting at different times of day is always recommended.
Schools And Education Across The Borough
Haringey offers:
- A broad range of primary and secondary schools
- Colleges and sixth-form centres
- Proximity to universities in central London
Areas such as Muswell Hill, Crouch End, and Highgate are especially popular with families prioritising education.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Haringey’s transport network is one of its biggest advantages:
- Victoria line provides fast access to central London
- Piccadilly line connects to Heathrow
- Rail services offer alternatives to the Tube
Commute times typically range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on location.
Cost Of Living In Haringey
While not the cheapest borough in London, Haringey offers:
- Better value than neighbouring boroughs like Camden or Islington
- A wide range of housing price points
- Competitive rental options
This balance makes it attractive to a wide audience.
Who Haringey Is Best Suited For
Haringey suits:
- Families seeking green space and schools
- Professionals commuting into central London
- First-time buyers priced out of inner boroughs
- Renters wanting variety and character
- Buyers interested in regeneration areas
It may be less suitable for those seeking luxury living everywhere or very quiet rural-style environments.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Haringey depend on what you value most:
- Crouch End for culture and village atmosphere
- Muswell Hill for families and space
- Highgate for historic charm and green living
- Hornsey for balance and value
- Tottenham Hale for regeneration and connectivity
- Tottenham for affordability and long-term growth
- Seven Sisters for transport and urban energy
As regeneration continues and demand for North London living grows, Haringey is likely to remain one of London’s most exciting and versatile boroughs.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Information about areas, property, safety, transport, and amenities may change over time and can vary by location.
Nothing in this post should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or property advice. Readers should carry out their own research before making any decisions.
London 33 accepts no liability for reliance on the information provided.