Londoners are leaving the capital in droves

There has been a surge in Londoners leaving the capital with Epsom and Ewell, Epping Forest and Dartford topping the list of relocation hotspots, a survey reveals.

The research from Savills found that between January 2022 and August 2023, 6% of all moves outside of London were from the capital.

This figure jumps significantly in the East and South East of England, where more than 13% of movers hail from London.

The trend of Londoners leaving the city has grown in popularity since before the pandemic, with the research indicating a rise from 5% between July 2017 and April 2020.

The South East and East of England have seen the most significant increase in London leavers, with a rise of 1.5% and 0.9% respectively.

Movers tend to migrate along its traditional corridors

Savills’ director of research, Frances McDonald, said: “Those migrating out of London tend to journey along its traditional corridors, often moving out in the same direction as they currently live, in search of more space, often following friends or family.

“We typically see those living in South West London move into Surrey, for example, while those based in East London make the move to Essex.

“This is particularly true for those searching for better value for money, without necessarily compromising on work or transport connections.”

She added: “Looking at areas that attract the most demand from further afield, relocation and downsizer hotspots such as West Devon and the Cotswolds feature among the top 10, as they have typically drawn in buyers due to the lifestyle on offer.

“While some moves are more likely to be a result of strong local economies and job opportunities in locations such as Cambridge and Cheltenham.”

Most popular destinations are close to the capital

Savills also looked at where the departing Londoners are heading and found the most popular destinations are close to the capital, with Epsom and Ewell attracting a staggering 46% of movers from London.

Similarly, Epping Forest (45%) and Dartford (43%) are also seeing a high influx of residents from neighbouring boroughs.

The real estate firm highlights that Cotswold (7%) and Bath and North East Somerset (6.3%) are also popular destinations for Londoners seeking locations outside of the South East and East of England.

Tunbridge Wells (4.6%), Waverley (3.2%) and Maldon (3.1%) have also experienced a rise in popularity.

Less than 2% of home movers in the North East and Scotland were from London.

Savills says Londoners are looking for better value – particularly since the rise in interest rates.

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