Living in Westminster means living at the very heart of London. From world-famous landmarks and elegant garden squares to quiet residential streets tucked behind bustling avenues, Westminster offers some of the most desirable — and diverse — places to live anywhere in the capital.
This in-depth guide explores the best areas to live in City of Westminster, looking at neighbourhood character, housing, transport, lifestyle, safety, schools, and who each area is best suited for. Whether you are a professional, family, renter, buyer, or international mover, this article will help you understand where Westminster truly fits your lifestyle.
Why Westminster Is One Of London’s Most Sought-After Boroughs
Westminster is not just another London borough. It is home to the UK government, royal landmarks, cultural institutions, and some of the world’s most valuable property. Yet beyond the tourist routes lies a borough with real neighbourhoods and residential communities.
Central Location Like No Other
Westminster sits at the centre of London and borders boroughs such as Camden, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth, and the City of London. Living here means:
- Walking distance to major employers
- Short commutes across London
- Immediate access to world-class culture, dining, and green spaces
Transport Excellence
Few boroughs can match Westminster’s transport network:
- Multiple Underground lines
- Major rail hubs
- Extensive bus routes
- Walkable streets and cycling infrastructure
For many residents, a car is unnecessary.
Diverse Housing Options
While Westminster is known for luxury property, it also includes:
- Purpose-built flats
- Council and social housing
- Mansion blocks
- Period conversions
- Modern developments
This creates a broader social mix than many people expect.
Marylebone
Best for: Professionals, families, village-style living
Marylebone consistently ranks as one of the most desirable places to live in London, combining centrality with a refined neighbourhood feel.
Character And Atmosphere
Marylebone feels like a village hidden within Zone 1. Its defining features include:
- Marylebone High Street with independent shops and cafés
- Elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture
- Quiet residential streets just minutes from Oxford Street
Despite its central location, Marylebone maintains a calm, lived-in atmosphere.
Housing
Property options include:
- Period mansion blocks
- Converted Georgian townhouses
- Luxury apartments
Prices are high, but demand remains consistently strong due to the area’s prestige and liveability.
Transport
Marylebone benefits from:
- Baker Street Underground Station
- Bond Street and Oxford Circus nearby
- Marylebone Station for Chiltern Railways
Who Marylebone Suits
Marylebone is ideal for those who want central living without chaos, particularly professionals and families who value walkability and community.
Pimlico
Best for: Families, long-term residents, quieter central living
Pimlico offers one of the most residential experiences in Westminster, often surprising first-time visitors with its calm streets and garden squares.
Residential Appeal
Pimlico is characterised by:
- Regency terraces
- Garden squares
- A strong local community
It feels more suburban than most central London neighbourhoods.
Housing And Affordability
Compared to other parts of Westminster, Pimlico can feel relatively better value, particularly for:
- Mansion block flats
- Long-term rentals
- Family-sized properties
Transport
Pimlico Station provides Victoria line access, with Victoria Station also nearby for national rail and Underground services.
Lifestyle
- Close to the River Thames
- Near Tate Britain
- Walking distance to Chelsea and Westminster
Pimlico is well suited to families and residents planning to stay long term.
Maida Vale
Best for: Families, professionals, green space lovers
Maida Vale sits towards the north of Westminster and offers a distinctly different lifestyle from the borough’s tourist-heavy areas.
Neighbourhood Feel
Maida Vale is known for:
- Wide, tree-lined avenues
- Red-brick mansion blocks
- Proximity to Little Venice and canals
It feels spacious, calm, and community-focused.
Housing
Most homes are:
- Large mansion block apartments
- Period conversions
- Family-friendly layouts
Transport
Maida Vale and Warwick Avenue stations provide Bakerloo line access, while Paddington is close by.
Why People Choose Maida Vale
Maida Vale appeals to those who want:
- Central access without central noise
- Green spaces and waterside walks
- A more residential pace of life
St John’s Wood
Best for: Families, international residents, quiet luxury
St John’s Wood is one of Westminster’s most exclusive residential areas.
Character
The area is known for:
- Detached and semi-detached houses
- Embassy residences
- Proximity to Regent’s Park
It feels closer to a traditional suburb than central London.
Housing Market
Property prices are among the highest in the borough, but residents benefit from:
- Larger homes
- Private gardens
- A peaceful environment
Transport
St John’s Wood Underground Station provides Jubilee line access, connecting quickly to Canary Wharf and the West End.
This area suits those prioritising privacy, space, and prestige.
Paddington
Best for: Renters, professionals, commuters
Paddington has undergone major regeneration in recent years, transforming from a transport hub into a modern residential and commercial district.
Regeneration Impact
New developments around Paddington Basin have brought:
- Modern apartments
- Restaurants and cafés
- Waterside living
Transport Connections
Paddington Station offers:
- Elizabeth line services
- National rail services
- Multiple Underground lines
This makes Paddington ideal for commuters and frequent travellers.
Lifestyle
While busy near the station, residential pockets offer:
- Canal-side walks
- Quick access to Hyde Park
- Excellent amenities
Paddington is best for those who value connectivity and convenience.
Westminster And St James’s
Best for: Prestige living, historic surroundings
Living in Westminster itself places residents among some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks.
Atmosphere
This area includes:
- Government buildings
- Royal parks
- Historic architecture
While busy during the day, evenings can feel surprisingly quiet.
Housing
Homes are limited and highly sought after, typically including:
- Luxury apartments
- Historic conversions
- Mansion blocks
Lifestyle Considerations
- Exceptional access to St James’s Park
- World-class dining and culture nearby
- Less of a neighbourhood feel than other areas
This area suits those seeking status, proximity, and heritage.
Soho And Covent Garden (Westminster Side)
Best for: Young professionals, creatives, nightlife lovers
Parts of Soho and Covent Garden fall within Westminster and offer a vibrant, urban lifestyle.
Energy And Culture
These areas are known for:
- Restaurants and theatres
- Nightlife and entertainment
- Creative industries
Housing
Housing is mainly:
- Flats above commercial spaces
- Converted buildings
- Smaller apartments
Things To Consider
- Noise levels
- Busy streets
- Limited green space
These neighbourhoods suit people who want London at full volume.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Westminster
Safety varies significantly depending on the area:
- Residential zones like Pimlico, Maida Vale, and St John’s Wood are generally quieter
- Tourist-heavy areas experience higher footfall and petty crime
Westminster benefits from:
- Strong police presence
- CCTV coverage
- Well-lit streets
As always, street-level research is essential.
Schools And Education
Westminster offers access to:
- Highly regarded state schools
- Independent and international schools
- Proximity to leading universities
Areas such as Pimlico, Maida Vale, and St John’s Wood are particularly popular with families due to school availability and environment.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living
Despite its central location, Westminster includes some of London’s best green spaces:
- Regent’s Park
- Hyde Park
- St James’s Park
- Canal paths in Little Venice
These spaces significantly enhance quality of life.
Cost Of Living In Westminster
Westminster is one of London’s most expensive boroughs, but costs vary widely:
- Marylebone and St John’s Wood sit at the premium end
- Pimlico and parts of Paddington offer relatively better value
- Council tax and everyday costs are similar to other inner boroughs
For many residents, the lifestyle benefits outweigh the cost.
Who Westminster Is Best For
Westminster suits:
- Professionals working in central London
- Families seeking top schools and green space
- International residents and diplomats
- Long-term renters and high-net-worth buyers
It may be less suitable for those seeking affordability or suburban lifestyles.
Long-Term Living And Investment Outlook
Westminster remains one of London’s most resilient property markets due to:
- Limited supply
- Global demand
- Central location
While prices are high, long-term value remains strong.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Westminster depend on your priorities:
- Marylebone for village-style luxury
- Pimlico for family-friendly calm
- Maida Vale for space and green living
- St John’s Wood for quiet prestige
- Paddington for connectivity
- Soho and Covent Garden for vibrant city life
Westminster offers many Londons within one borough, making it one of the most rewarding places to live in the capital.ost every lifestyle.
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.