Moving from London to Brighton

Thinking of swapping the fast-paced streets of London for the vibrant seaside life in Brighton? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands make the move south, drawn by Brighton’s culture, community spirit, and slower pace of life. Although Brighton is still one of the pricier cities in the UK, it offers a more affordable alternative to London. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from moving costs to living expenses, property prices, job prospects, and whether moving to Brighton is the right decision for you.

Moving from London to Brighton couple

Why Are People Moving from London to Brighton?

Brighton is one of the most popular destinations for London leavers. According to recent data, over 1,300 Londoners moved to Brighton in a single year alone, seeking a better work-life balance. The city offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community. It’s also known for its welcoming atmosphere, creativity, and diversity — making it a magnet for students, young professionals, families, and retirees alike.

Residents can enjoy summer days by the beach, a vibrant nightlife, and easy access to London for work or leisure — all without the pressures and high costs of life in the capital.

How Much Does it Cost to Move from London to Brighton?

On average:

  • 1-2 bedroom home move: £1,015

  • 3-bedroom home move: £1,150

This usually includes loading, transport, unloading, and basic insurance. Extra services such as packing (£275–£475) and dismantling/reassembling furniture (£125–£450) add to the final cost.

Prices vary based on:

  • Property size

  • Distance

  • Chosen moving date

  • Additional services

It’s recommended to compare quotes from multiple removal companies for the best deal.

Property Prices: Buying and Renting in Brighton

When it comes to property prices, Brighton is significantly more affordable than London, although it remains expensive compared to other UK cities.

  • Average house price in Brighton: £448,941 (UK House Price Index)

  • Average house price in London: £743,741

If you’re renting, you’ll also find some savings:

  • Average rent in Brighton: £1,991 per month

  • Average rent in London: £4,642 per month

Best areas to live in Brighton:

  • Hove – Perfect for families

  • Preston Park – Great for commuters

  • Seven Dials – Popular with young professionals

  • Hanover – More affordable, community feel

  • Kemp Town – Vibrant, beachside area for professionals

Premium areas like Western Esplanade and Montpelier Villas offer luxury seaside homes for those with bigger budgets.

Set your moving budget using our house removal cost calculator.

Travel and Commuting Between Brighton and London

Brighton offers excellent transport links, making it ideal for commuters:

  • Train to London Victoria/Blackfriars: Around 1 hour

  • Driving to London: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

  • Monthly public transport pass in Brighton: £84

  • Monthly public transport pass in London: £150–£160

Brighton also has over 50 local bus routes and a Park and Ride scheme. However, car users should note that parking in Brighton can be expensive and difficult, and the city is planning more restrictions to reduce congestion.

Work and Salary: Career Opportunities in Brighton

The job market in Brighton is dynamic and diverse, although average salaries are slightly lower than London.

  • Average salary in Brighton: £33,649

  • Average salary in London: £41,000

Key industries include:

  • Hospitality and tourism

  • Creative and digital media

  • Financial services

  • Public sector (Brighton’s largest employer group)

  • Technology startups (Brighton is often called a tech hub)

Major employers include American Express, Lloyds Bank, and a thriving tech community.

Remote working has also made Brighton even more attractive for those whose jobs are based in London but who no longer need to commute daily.

Cost of Living: Brighton vs London

While Brighton is the 9th most expensive city in the UK, it’s still considerably cheaper than London.

For example, a monthly public transport pass costs around £160 in London, compared to just £84 in Brighton. Basic utilities average £301 per month in London but are lower in Brighton at approximately £209. Fitness club memberships are also more affordable, with average prices of £35 in Brighton versus £45 in London. Grocery shopping is cheaper too, with chicken fillets costing £5.73 per kilogram in Brighton compared to £6.74 in London. Dining out is more affordable as well; a restaurant meal for two people costs about £60 in Brighton, compared to £70 in London.

In summary, living in Brighton is around 24% to 42% cheaper than living in London, depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.

Woman using the removal costs calculator

Education: Schools and Universities

Brighton offers high-quality education for families and students alike.

Top primary schools:

  • Bilingual Primary School

  • Coombe Road Primary

  • Carlton Hill Primary

Top secondary schools:

  • Dorothy Stringer School

  • Varndean School

  • Cardinal Newman Catholic School

For higher education, Brighton has two major universities:

  • University of Sussex (research-intensive)

  • University of Brighton (wide course variety)

Brighton is also one of the top-rated cities for students in the UK thanks to its vibrant, safe, and inclusive community.

Culture and Arts: Life in Brighton

Brighton is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, diversity, and creativity. Known as “Never Normal,” the city hosts countless events:

  • Brighton Pride (one of the biggest in Europe)

  • Brighton Festival and Fringe

  • Numerous music venues, art galleries, and street art

Top spots include:

  • Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

  • Hove Museum

  • The Lanes for quirky shopping experiences

Brighton’s open-minded and welcoming culture particularly appeals to artists, creatives, and members of the LGBTQIAP+ community.

Nightlife and Social Scene in Brighton

If you’re a night owl, Brighton won’t disappoint:

  • Trendy bars like No 32 and The Mesmerist

  • Nightclubs including Patterns and CHALK

  • Comedy clubs such as The Forge and The Secret Comedy Club

  • Drag nights at Charles Street Tap and brunch parties

The Lanes offer independent pubs, cafes, and record shops. Brighton’s social life is diverse, lively, and slightly more affordable compared to London.

Is It Worth Moving to Brighton from London?

Pros:

  • Cheaper property and rental prices

  • Quieter pace of life near the sea

  • Rich cultural life and events

  • Excellent access to both city and countryside

  • Friendly, welcoming atmosphere

  • Better air quality compared to London

Cons:

  • Property still expensive compared to other UK towns

  • Public transport not as frequent as in London

  • Limited career opportunities in some sectors

  • Parking and traffic can be challenging

If you prioritize lifestyle, community, and natural beauty over constant city buzz, Brighton could be a perfect move.

Best Areas to Live in Brighton

Preston Park: Great for commuters with direct train links to London.

Hove Park: Family-friendly, excellent schools, green spaces.

Seven Dials: Perfect for young professionals, close to restaurants and bars.

Hanover: Affordable, community-driven with strong local spirit.

Kemp Town: Beachfront living with an energetic vibe, popular with young professionals and students.

Moving to Brighton Alone or as a Student

For singles:

  • Consider renting a room in a shared house to meet new people.

  • Explore Meetup groups and volunteer opportunities.

For students:

  • University campuses offer affordable accommodation.

  • Brighton offers vibrant student life, second only to London.

Things to Do for Free in Brighton

  • Stroll along Brighton’s famous Palace Pier

  • Explore the South Downs National Park

  • Visit Pavilion Gardens and North Laine

  • Enjoy Stanmer Park’s woodland walks

  • Attend free public events and festivals

How much will it cost to move from London to Brighton?

Find out in under two minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving from London to Brighton

How far in advance should I hire a moving company?

At least 2–4 weeks before your moving date, especially during busy seasons.

Can I move in one day if I live in a 3-bedroom home?

Yes, most 3-bedroom house moves from London to Brighton can be done in one day with a good removals company.

When is the cheapest day to move?

Midweek days, like Tuesday or Wednesday, are usually the cheapest.

Is Brighton cheaper than London?

Yes, Brighton is significantly cheaper than London. Property prices in Brighton are about 40% lower, and the overall cost of living is 24% to 42% cheaper depending on lifestyle factors. Rent, utilities, transportation, and general living costs are all notably more affordable.

How long does it take to commute from Brighton to London?

By train, commuting from Brighton to London Victoria or London Blackfriars typically takes around 1 hour. Driving takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Is Brighton a safe city?

Brighton is considered one of the safest cities in the UK, often ranking in the top 10 for safety among cities with populations over 200,000. However, like any city, it’s best to research specific neighborhoods for the latest crime statistics.

What is the average salary in Brighton?

The average salary in Brighton is approximately £33,649 per year. While slightly lower than London’s average, the lower living costs in Brighton help balance overall affordability.

Is it worth hiring a professional removal company for moving to Brighton?

Yes, hiring a professional removal company can make your move much smoother, especially for long-distance relocations. Professionals can handle loading, transport, packing, and even furniture assembly, saving you time, effort, and potential damages.

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