Dalston vs Hammersmith

A side-by-side comparison of rent, transport, lifestyle and overall liveability.

Our recommendation

Hammersmith scores higher overall, though Dalston may offer better affordability.

Rent comparison

Dalstonwinner

Hackney
1-bed flat£1,750/mo
2-bed flat£2,300/mo
Zone(s)2

Hammersmith

Hammersmith & Fulham
1-bed flat£1,850/mo
2-bed flat£2,450/mo
Zone(s)2

Hammersmith is £100/month cheaper on a 1-bed flat.

Lifestyle comparison

Lively

Dalston
9
Hammersmith
6

Green space

Dalston
4
Hammersmith
7

Nightlife

Dalston
10
Hammersmith
5

Café density

Dalston
9
Hammersmith
7

Gym density

Dalston
6
Hammersmith
8

Walkability

Dalston
8
Hammersmith
7

Food scene

Dalston
9
Hammersmith
6

Young professionals

Dalston
9
Hammersmith
7

Safety

Dalston
6
Hammersmith
8

Transport

Dalston
7
Hammersmith
9

Dalston

Late nights, Turkish grills, and Ridley Road Market. Loud, young, and not especially restful.

  • Best-in-class nightlife
  • Diverse food (especially Turkish)
  • Overground to most of London
  • Noisy
  • Limited green space
  • Can feel oversaturated

Hammersmith

Four tube lines, the river, and quick access to Heathrow. Functional more than charming.

  • Four tube lines from one station
  • Thames Path and riverside pubs
  • Quick to Heathrow
  • Town centre feels dated
  • Less character than east-London peers

Frequently asked questions

Is Dalston or Hammersmith better to live in?

Hammersmith scores higher overall, though Dalston may offer better affordability.

Is Dalston cheaper than Hammersmith?

Dalston is cheaper — average 1-bed rent is £1,750 vs £1,850 in Hammersmith, a saving of £100/month.

Which has better transport — Dalston or Hammersmith?

Hammersmith scores higher for transport (9/10 vs 7/10). Dalston is served by Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland. Hammersmith is served by Hammersmith.

Compare Dalston with similar areas

Still deciding? Try the discovery tool

Enter your commute, salary and lifestyle preferences to get a personalised neighbourhood ranking.

Open the discovery tool →