Herne Hill vs Forest Hill

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

Our recommendation

Forest Hill offers better value — similar or better scores at a lower rent.

Rent comparison

Herne Hill

Lambeth
1-bed flat£1,600/mo
2-bed flat£2,050/mo
Zone(s)2, 3

Forest Hillwinner

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

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

Lifestyle comparison

Lively

Herne Hill
4
Forest Hill
4

Green space

Herne Hill
9
Forest Hill
8

Nightlife

Herne Hill
4
Forest Hill
4

Café density

Herne Hill
7
Forest Hill
6

Gym density

Herne Hill
6
Forest Hill
6

Walkability

Herne Hill
7
Forest Hill
7

Food scene

Herne Hill
6
Forest Hill
6

Young professionals

Herne Hill
6
Forest Hill
6

Safety

Herne Hill
8
Forest Hill
8

Transport

Herne Hill
6
Forest Hill
6

Herne Hill

A green, village-like south London pocket between Brockwell Park and Dulwich.

  • Brockwell Park and lido nearby
  • Good Sunday market and cafes
  • Calmer than Brixton while still close
  • Mostly rail-led commuting
  • Limited nightlife
  • Small rental market

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 Herne Hill or Forest Hill better to live in?

Forest Hill offers better value — similar or better scores at a lower rent.

Is Herne Hill cheaper than Forest Hill?

Forest Hill is cheaper — average 1-bed rent is £1,500 vs £1,600 in Herne Hill, a saving of £100/month.

Which has better transport — Herne Hill or Forest Hill?

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

Compare Herne Hill with similar areas

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