Young Londoners are increasingly seeking out affordable alternatives to the trendy yet expensive borough of Hackney. As house prices in the East London area continue to soar, many are looking beyond the city limits in search of a new place to call home. One such area that has caught the attention of these young professionals is the commuter town of Worthing, located on the Sussex coast.
The Rise of Worthing as the New ‘Hackney’
Worthing has been dubbed the new ‘Hackney’ for its similar vibe and appeal to young urbanites looking for a more affordable place to live. With average house prices around £397,000, Worthing offers an attractive alternative to the sky-high prices of Hackney. The town has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its proximity to Brighton and Chichester, two popular and pricey Sussex cities.
One of the main draws of Worthing is its growing cultural scene and vibrant community. The opening of Level 1, a Boxpark-style venue on Worthing beach, has added to the town’s appeal, offering panoramic seaside views and a range of dining and entertainment options. The West End of Worthing is also home to a variety of new independent shops and eateries, giving the area a trendy and eclectic feel reminiscent of Hackney.
Steve Magee, a director of Winkworth estate agency, noted the influx of young buyers from London to Worthing in recent years. He mentioned that many new bars and businesses in Worthing are owned by the same people who have established successful ventures in Brighton and Hove, creating a sense of familiarity and confidence for young buyers looking to make the move. The pedestrianised Warwick Street, in particular, has been highlighted as a “smart” spot by The Times, showcasing the town’s potential for growth and development.
Commute and Connectivity
Aside from its affordability and growing cultural scene, Worthing’s appeal also lies in its accessibility to London. With trains running regularly to the capital, commuters can reach London in just over an hour, making it a viable option for those who need to travel to the city for work. This convenient connectivity has made Worthing an attractive choice for young professionals looking to strike a balance between city living and a more relaxed coastal lifestyle.
In addition to Worthing, other areas such as Forest Gate and Deptford have also been touted as alternatives to Hackney for young Londoners seeking affordable housing options. Dundee, Glasgow, and Swansea have also been mentioned as potential locations for those willing to endure a longer commute in exchange for more affordable housing and a change of scenery.
The Future of Worthing
As Worthing continues to attract young professionals from London and beyond, the town is poised for further growth and development in the coming years. With its affordable housing options, vibrant cultural scene, and convenient connectivity to London, Worthing offers a compelling alternative to the high prices and competition of Hackney. Whether it’s the allure of the seaside lifestyle, the buzzing social scene, or the promise of a more relaxed pace of life, Worthing is proving to be a popular choice for those looking to make a fresh start outside of the city.