If you’re looking for the best place to live in Kent, you’re certainly not alone. Whether you’re dreaming of a countryside escape, a stylish seaside town, or a leafy suburb with fast London connections, Kent offers a lifestyle to suit everyone. This diverse county is home to charming market towns, vibrant cultural hubs, and some of the UK’s most beautiful green spaces.
Known as “The Garden of England,” Kent blends rich history with modern convenience, making it a popular choice for commuters, retirees, families, and remote workers alike. With excellent schools, a buzzing food scene, and access to both coast and countryside, it’s no surprise Kent continues to attract new homeowners every year.
Where Is Kent?
Kent is a county located in the South East of England. It borders Greater London to the northwest, Surrey to the west, and East Sussex to the southwest. To the east and southeast, it meets the English Channel, offering a long stretch of coastline and proximity to continental Europe.
With several towns connected to London via high-speed rail and motorways like the M20 and M2, Kent is well placed for those seeking a balance between urban access and rural tranquillity. From seaside escapes in Whitstable to commuter hubs like Sevenoaks and Ashford, Kent’s varied landscape makes it a versatile and attractive place to settle down.
Why Kent Appeals to So Many
Kent is a standout county for several reasons:
- Excellent transport to London: especially from towns like Sevenoaks, Ashford, and Maidstone
- Top-rated schools: including renowned grammar schools and independent options
- Diverse landscapes: from rolling countryside and ancient woodland to sandy beaches and seaside promenades
- A wide range of housing: from Georgian townhouses and seaside cottages to eco-friendly new builds
- A rich lifestyle: vineyards, historic sites, boutique shopping, food festivals, and nature trails
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or seeking a change in pace, Kent offers flexibility, charm, and a great quality of life.
Lifestyle Zones in Kent
Kent is large and diverse, so choosing where to live often depends on the lifestyle you want. Here’s how different areas of Kent cater to various needs:
1. Commuter Hotspots
Perfect for professionals who want a quick, easy train into London.
- Sevenoaks: Just 30 minutes from London with beautiful parks and high-performing schools.
- Royal Tunbridge Wells: A stylish spa town with period properties, green spaces, and boutique shops.
- Ashford: Excellent transport links including High-Speed rail and the Eurostar, with modern housing developments.
2. Seaside Towns
For coastal charm, sea air, and community living.
- Whitstable: Trendy and artistic, known for oysters, coastal walks, and independent shops.
- Herne Bay: A quieter alternative to Whitstable with family appeal and Victorian charm.
- Deal: A beautiful coastal town with Georgian streets and a creative community.
3. Countryside Retreats
For peace, space, and timeless village life.
- Faversham: A historic market town with great transport links and a strong local identity.
- Chilham and Lenham: Classic Kent villages with period homes and excellent walking routes.
- Tenterden: Leafy and relaxed, ideal for those working from home or seeking a slower pace.
4. Family-Friendly Suburbs
Great schools, green spaces, and room to grow.
- Maidstone: Grammar schools, family housing, shopping centres, and good road links.
- Canterbury: A cultural hub with top schools, two universities, and a lively city centre.
- Bearsted and Kings Hill: Suburban developments with parks, play areas, and amenities built around family life.
Top Places to Live in Kent
Let’s take a closer look at some of Kent’s most sought-after towns and villages:
Sevenoaks
One of Kent’s most desirable commuter towns, Sevenoaks offers fast trains to London, beautiful countryside, and excellent schools. The town has a high-end feel with a variety of independent shops and restaurants.
Royal Tunbridge Wells
This historic spa town is popular with families looking for space, style, and good schooling. With Georgian architecture, The Pantiles shopping area, and nearby countryside, it balances elegance and practicality.
Canterbury
Famous for its cathedral and medieval streets, Canterbury is a vibrant mix of history and modern living. It’s ideal for families, academics, and professionals alike.
Whitstable
With its colourful beach huts, coastal path, and buzzing high street, Whitstable is one of Kent’s trendiest seaside towns. It’s especially popular with creatives and remote workers.
Maidstone
Kent’s county town is affordable, well-connected, and full of practical conveniences. With grammar schools and diverse housing stock, it’s a solid choice for growing families.
Ashford
Fast rail links and a growing property market make Ashford a smart pick for young professionals. Ongoing developments and improved amenities are bringing in more buyers year after year.
Faversham
A mix of cobbled streets, local markets, and a friendly community feel make Faversham a charming place to live. It’s great for families and commuters alike.
What to Consider Before Choosing Your Spot
Finding the best place to live in Kent UK means thinking beyond the town name. Consider:
- Commute Time vs Quality of Life: Do you want to be near London or enjoy more space in a village?
- Schools: Look into Ofsted reports and local catchment areas.
- Budget: Premium towns like Sevenoaks come at a higher cost, while places like Ashford offer better value.
- Home Type: Do you want period charm or low-maintenance new builds?
- Access to Nature or Amenities: Would you use local parks, beaches, or city nightlife more often?
Living the Kent Life
What makes Kent such a desirable place to live is not just the housing or transport – it’s the lifestyle. Residents enjoy:
- Vineyards and Wineries: Kent is home to famous names like Chapel Down and Biddenden.
- Countryside Walks: From the Kent Downs to High Weald, walkers are spoilt for choice.
- Coastal Days Out: Explore beaches at Folkestone, Broadstairs, and Tankerton.
- Markets and Food Festivals: Support local with farm shops, food markets, and seasonal events.
- Family Attractions: Visit Leeds Castle, Howletts Wildlife Park, or hop on a steam train at Tenterden.
Ready to Move? Zapperty Can Help
If you’re thinking about moving within Kent or relocating to the county from elsewhere, Zapperty is here to help. Whether you’re downsizing, upsizing, or relocating for lifestyle reasons, we make the selling process in Kent simple.
Make your next chapter in Kent as seamless as possible. With no chains, no agents, and no delays, you can focus on where you’re going — not how to get there.
FAQs About Kent
Is Kent a good place to live for families?
Yes, Kent offers excellent schools, green spaces, and family-friendly suburbs, making it ideal for families of all sizes.
What are the best commuter towns in Kent?
Sevenoaks, Ashford, and Royal Tunbridge Wells are among the top commuter towns thanks to fast rail links to London.
Where are the best coastal towns in Kent to live?
Whitstable, Deal, and Herne Bay are great options for those wanting seaside living with community charm.
Is Kent expensive to live in?
Some areas like Sevenoaks are more premium, but towns like Ashford and Maidstone offer affordable alternatives.
What’s the best place in Kent for countryside living?
Faversham, Lenham, and Tenterden offer peaceful village life with beautiful surroundings.
How can I sell my house fast when moving to Kent?
Use Zapperty’s cash house buyers for a quick and stress-free home sale.
Check out this guide on selling costs for a full breakdown.
Can I relocate to Kent easily from London?
Yes, many Londoners move to Kent for a better lifestyle while keeping their job, especially in commuter towns.
Are there good schools in Kent?
Kent is known for its grammar school system and top-rated state and private schools across the county.
What should I know before selling my home for relocation?
Read our blog on selling your house fast for relocation to plan your move smoothly.
