Dalston vs Kingston
A side-by-side comparison of rent, transport, lifestyle and overall liveability.
Our recommendation
Dalston scores higher overall, though it comes at a rent premium over Kingston.
Rent comparison
Dalston
HackneyKingstonwinner
Kingston upon ThamesDalston is £300/month cheaper on a 1-bed flat.
Lifestyle comparison
Lively
Green space
Nightlife
Café density
Gym density
Walkability
Food scene
Young professionals
Safety
Transport
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
Kingston
Thames-side outer south-west London with a strong town centre, river walks, and more space.
- ✓Large retail and riverside amenities
- ✓Good access to Richmond Park and the Thames
- ✓More space than inner south-west
- →Longer commute into central London
- →Outer-zone travel
- →Less useful for east London jobs
Frequently asked questions
Is Dalston or Kingston better to live in?
Dalston scores higher overall, though it comes at a rent premium over Kingston.
Is Dalston cheaper than Kingston?
Kingston is cheaper — average 1-bed rent is £1,450 vs £1,750 in Dalston, a saving of £300/month.
Which has better transport — Dalston or Kingston?
Dalston scores higher for transport (7/10 vs 5/10). Dalston is served by Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland. Kingston is served by Kingston.
Compare Dalston with similar areas
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