If you’re thinking about living in Islington, you’re far from alone. This North London district has long captivated young professionals and families alike. This is thanks to its unique mix of traditional Victorian terraces, cutting-edge modern apartments, and a diverse range of cultural attractions.
Over time, Islington has transformed into a bustling borough that offers a vibrant social scene, excellent transport links, and a strong sense of community. HOLD is just around the corner, so if you need storage during your move to the area, we have a wide range of units to help with your transition.
Now let's dive into our comprehensive guide to living in Islington.
Table of contents
- Housing and property
- Average property prices
- Types of homes available
- Key considerations
- Property hotspots
- Renting or buying a home
- Renting in Islington
- Buying in Islington
- Relocation tips
- Islington council
- Council tax
- Transport
- Crime rate
- Education—local schools and universities
- Daily life and things to do
- Need a storage solution? HOLD is close by
Housing and property
Islington is renowned for its rich architecture, boasting property types from Georgian terraces to new-build modern apartments. In recent years, the local market has remained highly popular, attracting people who want to be close to the City centre but also value a strong neighbourhood feel.
The area’s signature style often includes period homes featuring a double reception room, decorative facades, and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms that suit the needs of growing families.
Average property prices
According to the latest government data from the Office for National Statistics, the median house price in the London Borough of Islington hovers around £643,000. For many residents, this figure reflects the high specifications often found in local homes—from modern kitchens to spacious living areas with plenty of natural light.
Larger terraces or character properties can easily surpass the £1 million mark, but you’ll find more properties of varied sizes if you’re open to exploring different pockets of the borough.
Types of homes available
Period properties
Popular among those who crave classic charm. Many of these homes date back to the Victorian or Georgian eras, with features like bay windows and ornate fireplaces.
Converted flats
Often carved out of grand townhouses, these appeal to young professionals seeking a blend of old-world character and updated modern layouts.
Modern apartments
Often equipped with en-suites, sleek designs, and open-plan living spaces that cater to contemporary tastes.
Luxury new builds
Typically offer smart-home technology, gyms, and even concierge services, appealing to those wanting a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle.
Regardless of property type, you can expect solid demand—Islington’s central location and cultural draw keep prices stable and competition keen.
Key considerations
If you’re scouting sales in Islington listings, be mindful of your budget and proximity to transport hubs or local amenities like Highbury Fields. Some buildings come with communal gardens, private balconies, or additional perks like underground parking.
Others rely on street parking permits from the borough council. Always examine the property’s condition thoroughly, especially if it’s a period home that might need refurbishment. Estate agents often have an in-depth insight into pockets of the area that might offer better value or upcoming developments worth tracking.
Property hotspots
When it comes to prime neighbourhoods in Islington, a few stand out for their atmosphere, architecture, and convenience:
From top to bottom, clockwise: Clerkenwell, Islington High Street, Highbury and Canonbury
Clerkenwell
Straddling Islington and the City of London, Clerkenwell is known for its mix of industrial conversions, fine dining, and creative office spaces—ideal for those who want a contemporary vibe.
Islington High Street
Anchored by Angel Station, Islington High Street is a magnet for shopping, dining, and nightlife, with streets branching off into quieter residential zones.
Highbury Fields
Loved by families and fitness enthusiasts alike for its greenery, tennis courts, and sense of community, Highbury Fields offers properties with picturesque period terraces as well as sleek flats.
Canonbury
Home to tree-lined avenues and stately houses, Canonbury is a hotspot for those seeking a suburban-like calm without leaving central London.
Whether you seek a double reception room for entertaining or a minimalist apartment for easy living, each enclave within Islington has its own unique charm and potential for return on investment. Local estate agents frequently highlight these property hotspots as prime options for people looking to buy or for properties for sale with strong long-term appeal.
Renting or buying a home
In Islington, you’ll find a competitive housing market whether you choose to buy or rent. The decision largely hinges on your financial situation and how long you plan to stay in the borough.
Renting in Islington
Renting in Islington tends to be on the higher side, with a one-bedroom flat averaging around £2,660 per month. Amenities like shared gardens or proximity to excellent transport links can push these figures up even more. Still, the central location appeals to many young professionals, who prize an easy commute and the freedom to explore the area.
If you’re looking for shared accommodation, it’s common to find listings posted through platforms like SpareRoom or local Facebook community groups.
Buying in Islington
For those looking to put down roots, properties for sale in Islington can range from £300,000 studio flats to multi-million-pound Victorian townhouses. The data from the Office for National Statistics suggests that the median price in Islington remains above £600,000, so it’s wise to get a mortgage agreement in principle before you start house-hunting.
Local estate agents often have the details on up-and-coming streets where you can still spot good deals. Keep in mind:
- Home surveys – Especially critical for older properties that may have hidden issues.
- Leasehold vs. Freehold – Many flats in period conversions are sold as leaseholds, so factor in service charges.
- Renovation potential – It may cost more upfront, but renovating can significantly boost the value of your property in the long run.
Relocation tips
If you’re making a big move—perhaps from outside London—pack strategically to avoid clutter. You can purchase moving supplies like tape, bubble wrap, and a box from our box shop to keep your belongings organised. We also have a moving house checklist to help you get all your ducks in a row.
Remember, the process of finding sales in Islington listings and securing a home can be time-consuming, so planning your move well in advance will reduce stress.
Islington Council
Islington Council oversees local services in one of London's most diverse boroughs. Jeremy Corbyn has represented Islington North since 1983, earning respect for his long-standing commitment to the community.
Residents' opinions on the council vary: some appreciate efforts to improve housing and community services, while others express concerns about issues like planning decisions and maintenance delays. Overall, Islington fosters a strong sense of activism and local pride, with residents eager to have their voices heard.
Council tax
Islington Council has increased council tax by 4.99% for 2025/26, including a 2% government-mandated adult social care charge. For a Band D property, this means about £1.39 more per week. To support low-income households, over 8,000 residents will pay nothing, while nearly 6,000 others will get a 95% discount.
The council invests over £30 million annually in these support schemes. You can check bills, apply for discounts, or get help on the official Islington Council website.
Transport
Islington’s excellent transport links make commuting or exploring the City simple:
- Underground – Angel Station (Northern Line) and Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line, London Overground) connect you to the rest of London.
- National rail services – Nearby King’s Cross and St Pancras provide direct routes across the UK and to Eurostar destinations.
- Buses – You’ll find a wide range of routes that run 24/7, making it easy to get around at any time.
These connections are a big draw for young professionals who work in the West End or the City and appreciate the short travel times.
Crime rates
Understanding the local safety landscape can help you make informed decisions about where to live within the borough. Here are the key points:
- Overall crime rate – 13,157 incidents per 100,000 population (year ending September 2023)
- Borough ranking – 29th safest London borough out of 33
- Recent trend – 3.9% increase in incidents compared to previous year
The most common types of crime in Islington are:
- Theft offenses (45% of all crime)
- Violent crime (25% of all crime)
While these statistics may seem concerning, it's worth noting that crime is not evenly distributed throughout the borough. Quieter residential areas like Canonbury and parts of Barnsbury tend to have lower crime rates, while many incidents occur in busier commercial areas, particularly at night.
As with most urban areas, location-specific patterns exist, and many residents find that certain neighborhoods offer a significantly different experience regarding safety.
When viewing properties, consider security features such as well-lit entrances, secure door systems, and proximity to busy, well-travelled routes. Many residents find that taking normal urban precautions allows them to enjoy Islington's many benefits safely.
Education—Local schools and universities
Islington offers a diverse range of educational institutions, including 47 primary schools, 10 secondary schools, and 3 special schools. Notably, 91% of these schools have been rated as good or outstanding by Ofsted, surpassing both London and national averages.
For higher education, the borough hosts City, University of London, and London Metropolitan University, providing a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
For a more detailed insight, read this report on educational attainment in Islington.
Daily life and things to do
This famous London borough isn't short of attractions. From boutique shopping along Upper Street to catching a show at the storied Union Chapel, entertainment is abundant here. Islington is dotted with bars, independent bookstores, and quirky shops selling everything from vintage clothing to homemade candles.
Street markets, like the one at Chapel Market, ensure there’s plenty to discover on your days off.
Find in maps:
Frederick’s and local dining
Foodies have it good here—options abound for every taste and budget. One local favourite is Frederick’s, a longstanding restaurant famed for its upscale takes on British and international classics.
Beyond that, you can pop into gastropubs along Islington High Street or delve into a global gastronomic journey on Upper Street, where you’ll find Korean barbecue, sushi bars, and countless brunch spots.
Operating hours for Frederick's
- Sun to Mon - Closed
- Tuesday to Friday - 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Contact number: +44 20 7359 2888
Notable places and hidden gems
From top to bottom: Screen on the Green, The New River Walk, and Camden Passage
Islington is peppered with cultural and historical corners that even long-term residents might overlook:
- Screen on the Green – A single-screen cinema on Upper Street that gives you a cosy, old-fashioned movie-going experience.
- The New River Walk – A tranquil spot for a scenic stroll, tucked away from the buzz of main roads.
- Camden Passage – Known for antique shops and unique boutiques, ideal for anyone hunting for rare collectibles.
Find in maps:
For more insight, check out our in-depth guide on things to do in Islington
Conclusion
Wrapping up, Islington offers a compelling blend of architectural diversity, cultural hotspots, and a prime location in North London. From expansive period houses with a double reception room to modern apartments built to high specifications, there’s no shortage of properties for sale or rental opportunities that can align with your lifestyle and budget.
Official data points to a robust property market, underscoring just how popular this borough remains.
For those dreaming of setting down roots, Islington’s lively area stands ready to become your new home. Commuting is a breeze, day-to-day living is far from dull, and community spirit runs deep.
When you’re ready to start packing, remember we’re here to support you with our Box Shop—making your move as straightforward as possible.
*Facts and figures in this article are accurate at time of publication (19/02/2025). Please check official sources for latest statistics
Need a storage solution? HOLD is close by
After exploring Islington, you might find yourself with extra treasures from vintage shops or antiques you simply couldn’t miss. Or perhaps your moving to an apartment in the area and need a short-term storage solution. Whatever your storage needs, HOLD can help.
We're a next-gen storage service by Londoners for Londoners. Our facility is just a short walk from Islington, and offers tailored storage solutions for business, personal, and everything in between. Choose from a wide range of storage units with no fixed contracts, and take advantage of a stress-free storage experience.
You can also explore our online box shop for any packing supplies you might need.
Get a free quote today and get 50% off for the first 8 weeks, and a price match within 3 miles.
Frequently asked questions
Do you offer student-friendly storage plans at HOLD Self Storage?
Yes, we do. If you’re a student moving around North London, we can help you find a flexible, short-term storage solution. It’s easy to coordinate with our team for added convenience.
Is it tricky to schedule a viewing for properties in Islington?
It can be competitive, but most estate agents are responsive if you show serious interest. Keep in touch with them regularly, as new listings often come and go quickly.
How can I find more properties to rent or buy?
Sites like Rightmove and Zoopla list properties for sale or rent, often with updated photos and floor plans. Local newspapers and estate agent websites also have a dedicated page for new listings.
What are some good resources for local education details?
The Islington Council website provides admission requirements, performance reports, and catchment-area details. Many nearby schools also post helpful information on their own websites.
Where can I pick up boxes and packing supplies for a move?
We at HOLD Self Storage run a Box Shop that sells everything you need—from small boxes for fragile items to larger cartons for bulkier possessions. It’s an easy way to keep your belongings secure during a move.
