The London Borough of Brent is one of the capital’s most diverse, dynamic, and fast-changing boroughs. Located in North West London, Brent offers a well-balanced mix of urban energy, family-friendly neighbourhoods, strong transport links, and relative affordability compared to many neighbouring areas.
From the global spotlight of Wembley to the leafy calm of Queen’s Park borders, Brent attracts young professionals, families, creatives, and long-term residents who want London living without the premium price tag of Zones 1 and 2.
This comprehensive guide explores the best areas to live in Brent, covering neighbourhood character, housing, safety, schools, transport, lifestyle, and who each area is best suited for. If you are considering moving to Brent or simply want to understand where it shines, this guide will give you a clear and realistic picture.
Why Brent Is Growing In Popularity
Brent has undergone significant change over the past two decades. Once seen primarily as a transit borough, it is now increasingly recognised as a destination in its own right.
Strong Transport Links Across London
Brent is exceptionally well-connected, offering:
- Jubilee line services
- Bakerloo line access
- Overground connections
- National Rail routes
- Easy access to the North Circular and A40
Commute times to central London often range from 15 to 35 minutes, depending on location.
More Affordable Than Neighbouring Boroughs
Compared with Camden, Westminster, and Kensington, Brent offers:
- Lower average rents
- Better value property prices
- Larger homes for families
This has made it popular with buyers and renters priced out of more central locations.
Regeneration And Investment
Large-scale regeneration projects, particularly around Wembley Park, have transformed parts of the borough with:
- New housing developments
- Improved public spaces
- Better retail and leisure options
These changes continue to attract new residents.
Wembley Park
Best for: Young professionals, renters, modern living
Wembley Park is Brent’s most high-profile regeneration success story and one of London’s most rapidly developing neighbourhoods.
Modern Urban Living
Wembley Park offers:
- Modern apartment buildings
- Purpose-built rental developments
- New cafés, restaurants, and entertainment venues
The area feels contemporary and fast-paced, appealing to younger residents.
Transport Links
Wembley Park Station provides:
- Jubilee line services
- Metropolitan line services
This allows quick access to Canary Wharf, the West End, and the City.
Lifestyle And Amenities
Residents benefit from:
- Wembley Stadium and OVO Arena events
- Boxpark Wembley
- Retail outlets and gyms
Things To Consider
- Busy on event days
- Higher rents compared to other parts of Brent
Wembley Park is ideal for those seeking modern, connected, city-style living.
Queen’s Park Border (Brent Side)
Best for: Families, professionals, long-term residents
While Queen’s Park itself lies mainly in Westminster, parts of Brent border this highly desirable area and offer excellent value with similar lifestyle benefits.
Residential Character
The Brent-side Queen’s Park area features:
- Tree-lined streets
- Period Victorian and Edwardian houses
- A strong community atmosphere
Schools And Family Appeal
The area is popular with families due to:
- Access to good primary schools
- Proximity to Queen’s Park green space
- Safer, quieter streets
Transport
Nearby stations include:
- Queen’s Park Underground and Overground
- Kilburn Park (Bakerloo line)
Things To Consider
- Limited housing supply
- Strong competition for properties
This area suits those seeking character housing and a village-like feel.
Kilburn
Best for: Renters, young professionals, creatives
Kilburn is one of Brent’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighbourhoods, known for its energy, diversity, and nightlife.
Urban Lifestyle
Kilburn offers:
- A busy high road with shops and cafés
- Music venues and pubs
- A strong creative and cultural scene
Housing
Housing options include:
- Converted Victorian flats
- Purpose-built apartments
- Smaller studios popular with renters
Transport Links
Kilburn is exceptionally well-connected with:
- Jubilee line stations
- Overground services
- Thameslink access nearby
Things To Consider
- Busy main roads
- Less green space than other areas
Kilburn is ideal for those who want urban living with strong transport access.
Willesden Green
Best for: First-time buyers, professionals, families
Willesden Green has steadily grown in popularity due to its balance of affordability, transport, and community.
Housing And Streets
Willesden Green offers:
- Victorian terraced houses
- Converted flats
- Newer apartment developments
Transport
Willesden Green Station sits on the Jubilee line, providing fast access to central London.
Community Feel
The area has:
- Independent cafés and shops
- Community centres and libraries
- A diverse, welcoming population
Things To Consider
- Ongoing regeneration means some construction
- Property prices rising steadily
Willesden Green suits buyers and renters seeking long-term value.
Neasden
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, families, commuters
Neasden is one of Brent’s most affordable areas and offers strong transport links alongside improving residential streets.
Transport Strength
Neasden Station provides Jubilee line access, making it attractive to commuters.
Housing Value
Neasden offers:
- Terraced and semi-detached homes
- Purpose-built flats
- Competitive pricing compared to nearby areas
Community And Amenities
Local amenities include:
- Supermarkets and local shops
- Schools and places of worship
- Access to nearby retail parks
Things To Consider
- Some streets feel more industrial
- Less nightlife and leisure
Neasden is ideal for those prioritising affordability and transport.
Harlesden
Best for: Value seekers, creatives, regeneration potential
Harlesden is one of Brent’s most distinctive neighbourhoods, known for its strong cultural identity and community spirit.
Cultural Character
Harlesden offers:
- A lively high street
- Caribbean and African food culture emphasised
- Independent shops and markets
Housing
Housing options include:
- Victorian terraces
- Flats above shops
- Family homes with gardens
Transport
Harlesden Station provides Overground services, with Underground access nearby.
Things To Consider
- Still undergoing regeneration
- Street-by-street variation
Harlesden suits buyers looking for character and future potential.
Kensal Green Border Areas
Best for: Professionals, renters, lifestyle-focused living
Parts of Brent bordering Kensal Green benefit from:
- Proximity to cafés and creative spaces
- Period housing
- Strong transport links
This area appeals to professionals who want Zone 2 access without Zone 2 prices.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Brent
Safety in Brent varies by neighbourhood and street, as with most London boroughs.
Generally:
- Queen’s Park border areas and parts of Willesden Green are seen as more residential and family-friendly
- Kilburn and Wembley are busier and more urban
- Regeneration and investment have improved lighting, public spaces, and security
Researching specific streets remains essential.
Schools And Education In Brent
Brent offers a wide range of:
- Primary schools
- Secondary schools
- Colleges and sixth forms
Some areas, particularly around Queen’s Park borders and Willesden Green, are popular with families due to school availability.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living
Despite its urban feel, Brent includes:
- Gladstone Park
- Queen’s Park nearby
- Smaller local parks and recreation grounds
These provide important outdoor space for residents.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Brent is one of North West London’s most accessible boroughs:
- Jubilee line coverage
- Bakerloo line access
- Overground routes
- Strong road connections
This makes commuting across London straightforward.
Who Brent Is Best For
Brent is well suited to:
- Young professionals
- First-time buyers
- Renters seeking value
- Families priced out of inner London
- Creatives and entrepreneurs
It may be less suitable for those seeking very quiet, rural-style living.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Brent depend on your priorities:
- Wembley Park for modern living and transport
- Queen’s Park borders for families and character
- Kilburn for energy and nightlife
- Willesden Green for balance and value
- Neasden for affordability
- Harlesden for culture and future growth
Brent continues to evolve and remains one of London’s most interesting and accessible boroughs, offering opportunity, diversity, and value.
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.