Moving from London to Essex: A Complete Relocation Guide
Essex is the most popular destination for Londoners moving out of the capital. Every year, thousands of families and professionals make the move — drawn by significantly larger homes for the same budget, excellent state schools, and surprisingly fast rail links back into Liverpool Street. This guide covers the best places to move, what to expect on the commute, and how to plan your relocation.
Why So Many Londoners Move to Essex
- Property value: The same budget that buys a 2-bed flat in East London can buy a detached 4-bed house in Chelmsford or Colchester
- Schools: Essex has a large number of outstanding state grammar and secondary schools
- Commute: Great Eastern mainline services bring Liverpool Street within 30–55 minutes from most key towns
- Quality of life: More green space, less traffic, lower crime rates, and stronger community feel
Best Essex Towns for London Commuters
Chelmsford — The Most Popular Choice
Essex's county city and consistently ranked among the UK's best places to live. Fast trains reach Liverpool Street in 33 minutes. Excellent state and independent schools. Average 4-bed detached: £500,000–£650,000.
Brentwood
A more affluent market town with a strong independent high street and excellent schools including Brentwood School (independent). Liverpool Street in 35–40 minutes. Average 4-bed: £700,000–£900,000.
Shenfield
Now served by the Elizabeth line, making it one of the best-connected Essex commuter towns. Liverpool Street in 28 minutes. Popular with City and Canary Wharf workers. Average 3-bed semi: £500,000–£650,000.
Witham and Hatfield Peverel
More affordable options further from London with Liverpool Street in under 50 minutes. Great value for families who want space and a genuine country feel but need to commute to London regularly.
Epping
The Central line terminus — no need to change trains. London in under 40 minutes. Attractive market town feel. Popular with north and east London movers. Average 4-bed: £650,000–£850,000.
Commute Reality Check
Before moving, do the full door-to-door commute during rush hour. Liverpool Street arrival times look great on paper, but factor in:
- Travel from your Essex home to the station (10–20 minutes by car or local bus)
- Train journey (28–55 minutes depending on town)
- Travel from Liverpool Street to your London office (15–30 minutes)
For most Chelmsford or Shenfield movers, the realistic door-to-door time is 1hr–1hr 15min. That's comparable to many inner-London commutes, but you're arriving home to a 4-bed detached with a garden.
Schools in Essex
Essex has an excellent reputation for education, particularly at secondary level. Key highlights:
- Chelmsford: KEGS (King Edward VI Grammar, highly selective, Outstanding) and New Hall School (leading independent)
- Brentwood: Brentwood School (independent, top academic results) and several outstanding state primaries
- Epping: Strong local state provision; proximity to outstanding selective schools in neighbouring areas
Planning Your London to Essex Move
A move from inner London to Essex typically takes a full day — especially if you're moving from a flat in Tower Hamlets or Hackney to a house in Chelmsford. Here's what to plan for:
- Book a Luton van with at least 2 men for a 2-bed+ move
- Allow for travel time on the A12 or M25 — factor in 60–90 minutes transit time
- Consider whether you need packing services — a full 3-bed pack and move is often a two-day job
- Arrange parking suspension in London if you're in a permit zone
Metro City moves London handles London-to-Essex moves regularly. Get a fixed-price quote for your move — we'll confirm your price and availability the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest area in Essex to move to from London?
Grays, Tilbury, and Basildon offer the most affordable property in Essex with reasonable rail links. Prices are significantly lower than Chelmsford or Brentwood, though the commute and school options vary.
Is it worth moving from London to Essex?
For most families and professionals who don't need to be in central London daily, yes. The property value, school quality, and quality-of-life improvements are substantial for the same or lower cost.