Moving in Barnet: Your Complete Guide to North London's Most Spacious Borough
The London Borough of Barnet is one of north London's most consistently popular boroughs for families. It covers the Jewish cultural hub of Golders Green and Hendon, the leafy Edwardian and interwar residential streets of Finchley and Whetstone, the sought-after suburbs of New Barnet and East Barnet, and the exclusive golf-course-bordered enclave of Hadley Wood. Moving to Barnet typically means upgrading to more space — and our team handles more large family house moves in this borough than almost any other area of north London.
Key Areas in Barnet
Finchley Central and North Finchley (N3/N12)
The heart of the borough. N3 and N12 offer excellent value for large semi-detached and detached homes relative to more central north London. Northern line at Finchley Central provides direct access to the City. Outstanding schools including Woodhouse College and North London Collegiate School (independent).
Whetstone and New Barnet (N20/EN5)
Slightly more affordable than Finchley but equally well-placed. Large interwar semis and detached homes, good Northern line connections from Totteridge & Whetstone, and outstanding state secondary provision including Queen Elizabeth's Boys' School (one of the best state schools in England).
Totteridge (N20)
One of north London's most exclusive residential areas. Very large detached properties on significant plots, bordering open countryside. Extremely popular with wealthy families seeking maximum space within the London boundary.
East Barnet and New Barnet (EN4)
Slightly more affordable than Finchley or Whetstone, with fast rail connections to Moorgate and King's Cross via Great Northern. Popular with families who commute into the City or West End.
Moving Challenges in Barnet
Barnet's suburban character means parking is generally very manageable — most properties have driveways or off-street parking, and CPZ restrictions are lighter than inner London. The main challenges are traffic on the A1, A406 (North Circular), and M25 J23, which should all be avoided during peak hours. Barnet's postcodes are outside the ULEZ inner boundary (check specific postcode on TfL's website).
Removal Costs in Barnet
Moving within the borough: a 3-bed semi costs £380–£580, a 4-bed detached runs £550–£750. Moving from inner London (Camden, Islington) to Barnet is a full-day job at £550–£750. No Congestion Charge. Most Barnet postcodes have no ULEZ charge. Parking suspensions rarely needed.
Get a free, fixed-price quote from Metro City Moves — we cover all Barnet postcodes and are experienced with the borough's larger family moves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best schools in Barnet?
Queen Elizabeth's Boys' School in Barnet (N3) is consistently ranked as one of the top state schools in England. North London Collegiate School (NLCS) in Edgware is one of the country's leading independent girls' schools. Mill Hill School is a well-regarded co-ed independent. State primary provision throughout the borough is generally very strong.
Is Barnet good for commuting to the City?
Yes — Northern line from Finchley Central or Totteridge & Whetstone gives direct access to Bank, Moorgate, and London Bridge without changing. Door-to-door from Finchley to the City is typically 40–50 minutes, which is very competitive given the property size and quality you get in return.