Hendon vs Forest Hill

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

Our recommendation

Forest Hill scores higher overall, though Hendon may offer better affordability.

Rent comparison

Hendonwinner

Barnet
1-bed flat£1,400/mo
2-bed flat£1,850/mo
Zone(s)3, 4

Forest Hill

Lewisham
1-bed flat£1,500/mo
2-bed flat£1,950/mo
Zone(s)3

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

Lifestyle comparison

Lively

Hendon
4
Forest Hill
4

Green space

Hendon
7
Forest Hill
8

Nightlife

Hendon
3
Forest Hill
4

Café density

Hendon
5
Forest Hill
6

Gym density

Hendon
5
Forest Hill
6

Walkability

Hendon
6
Forest Hill
7

Food scene

Hendon
5
Forest Hill
6

Young professionals

Hendon
5
Forest Hill
6

Safety

Hendon
7
Forest Hill
8

Transport

Hendon
6
Forest Hill
6

Hendon

Outer-north value with Northern line access, Middlesex University nearby, and practical rather than fashionable amenities.

  • Good affordability for north-west London
  • Northern line into central London
  • Everyday shops and restaurants
  • Longer journeys to east and south London
  • Less nightlife
  • Main roads can feel car-led

Forest Hill

Leafy Overground living with views, the Horniman Museum, and better value than nearby Dulwich villages.

  • Horniman Museum and gardens
  • Overground connection
  • Good value for green south-east London
  • Hilly streets
  • Slower to west London
  • Nightlife is limited

Frequently asked questions

Is Hendon or Forest Hill better to live in?

Forest Hill scores higher overall, though Hendon may offer better affordability.

Is Hendon cheaper than Forest Hill?

Hendon is cheaper — average 1-bed rent is £1,400 vs £1,500 in Forest Hill, a saving of £100/month.

Which has better transport — Hendon or Forest Hill?

Hendon and Forest Hill score equally on transport (6/10). Hendon is served by Hendon Central. Forest Hill is served by Forest Hill.

Compare Hendon 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 →