Combining historic towns, rolling countryside, and coastal tranquillity with easy commuter links to London, the eastern county of Essex is one of the most desirable places to call home. For those seeking the convenience of easy access to the City without the constant hustle and bustle, Essex offers the ideal mix of serenity and urban living.
When it comes to choosing the best place to lay down roots, whether that be for working professionals, families, or couples, there are various factors that need to be considered to find the spot that ticks all of the right boxes. In this guide, we break down the best places to live in Essex based on key factors such as amenities, commuter options, and desirability.
Understanding Essex
Spanning from the lively outskirts of London all the way to the peaceful coastal villages, Essex guarantees an option for everyone looking to settle down in the east of England. The county is bordered by Suffolk, Hertfordshire, and Greater London, sitting above the River Thames and along the coast of the North Sea.
Being one of the largest counties in England and home to nearly 1.5 million residents, Essex continues to grow in popularity as people escape the hectic London city life for a more laid back lifestyle. The region is a big hit among commuters, with 59% of the Essex population being made up of working adults. On the other hand, the scenic suburbs also attract a population of over 65’s, making up 22% of the overall Essex population.
Over the last 12 months (from time of writing), the average house price in Essex for a sold property stands at £431,929. Property prices have been growing steadily in the area over recent years as the region becomes a more desirable place to live, making a local property a great investment.
Where is the best place to live in Essex?
To help you find the perfect place in Essex for you, we’ve pulled together a selection of the best places so you can discover where to live in Essex that suits your lifestyle.
Chelmsford
With city status and excellent transport links into London, Chelmsford is one of the most desirable places to live in Essex. With a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars and shops, the city offers plenty to do and has all the amenities you could ever want on your doorstep. There are an endless stream of social events to add to the calendar, ranging from theatre shows to days out with the kids – work-life balance has never felt so achievable.
Saffron Walden
Combining historic sites with tranquil countryside, Saffron Walden typically appeals more to families and retirees who are looking for a quieter life. With a quaint town centre brimming with independent businesses and historical attractions, plus a range of highly-rated educational facilities, there is no better place to bring up little ones.
Brentwood
Being at the higher end of the property market, Brentwood offers a luxurious investment opportunity for those looking for a higher standard of living. With a prime location near to London, the town allows a more relaxed lifestyle which feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the City. The High Street is home to Brentwood Market every Friday and Saturday, where local residents can get their hands on freshly baked goods, organic produce, and boutique clothing.
Brightlingsea
Tucked away near to the historical town of Colchester, Brightlingsea is an underrated location which offers a peaceful waterfront lifestyle. The maritime heritage is brimming with rich history and offers plenty of outdoor activities which can keep the whole family entertained during the summer holidays. The small scale of the town creates a tight-knit community feel and the residents enjoy getting together to partake in local events.
Harlow
Being one of the favourite places in Essex for those who are looking for a well-situated town with affordable housing options, Harlow caters to a wide demographic and offers something for everyone. With a large number of new-build apartments and houses, it is perfect for first-time buyers who are looking to get on the property ladder in an area with plenty of urban activities, as well as green outdoor space.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Things to do in Essex
With huge historic significance, Colchester is ideal for history enthusiasts. Being the oldest recorded town in Britain and the first ever capital of the UK back in the Roman era, Colchester Castle and plenty more Roman remains provide endless insights into the ancient past of the area.
For those who love to get outdoors and inhale the fresh air, there are an influx of walking, cycling and horse riding trails across the region which offer stunning views and quiet areas to unwind in. Essex Wildlife Trust has an array of sites, from Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park to Danbury Ridge Nature Reserves, which protect the rich biodiversity in the area and offer a great family-friendly day out.
There’s nothing better than a day at the seaside during the British summer and Essex has no shortage of coastal towns to explore. Southend-on-Sea is a firm favourite among families looking to get an adrenaline buzz at the amusements, walk along the longest leisure pier in the world, and lay back on the sandy beaches.
Best areas for commuters
For those working in London, one of the biggest advantages of Essex living is the accessibility. Many of the Essex towns are connected by direct trains into the city; London Liverpool Street is just a 30 minute train ride from Chelmsford and Brentwood and Shenfield are both on the Elizabeth Line, providing direct access to Central London in less than half an hour.
If travelling by car is preferred, the county also has good road links to motorways. The M25 is nearby which offers easy access to London and surrounding areas, and the M11 offers connections to the rest of the country.
Conclusion
The varied property market in Essex caters to a wide range of lifestyles and is expected to continue growing in popularity as people look to get out of the city. With the option to enjoy a slower pace of life while being able to get more for your money, the best places to live in Essex are right at your fingertips.
If you’re looking to relocate to the area, navigating the dynamic property market could not be easier than with Zapperty. Enabling you to focus on where to live in Essex without the added pressure, we provide a fast and reliable service for those wanting to avoid the stress of the traditional selling process. Our cash buying company cuts out the middlemen so you can get cash for your property by selling your house in Essex quickly without the long waiting times.