Islington vs Battersea / Nine Elms

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

Our recommendation

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

Rent comparison

Islingtonwinner

Islington
1-bed flat£2,000/mo
2-bed flat£2,700/mo
Zone(s)2

Battersea / Nine Elms

Wandsworth
1-bed flat£2,100/mo
2-bed flat£2,800/mo
Zone(s)1, 2

Battersea / Nine Elms is £100/month cheaper on a 1-bed flat.

Lifestyle comparison

Lively

Islington
7
Battersea / Nine Elms
6

Green space

Islington
5
Battersea / Nine Elms
9

Nightlife

Islington
7
Battersea / Nine Elms
5

Café density

Islington
9
Battersea / Nine Elms
7

Gym density

Islington
8
Battersea / Nine Elms
9

Walkability

Islington
9
Battersea / Nine Elms
6

Food scene

Islington
9
Battersea / Nine Elms
7

Young professionals

Islington
9
Battersea / Nine Elms
8

Safety

Islington
7
Battersea / Nine Elms
8

Transport

Islington
9
Battersea / Nine Elms
8

Islington

Polished, professional, and well-fed. Upper Street has more restaurants than most postcodes have houses.

  • Strong restaurant and bar scene
  • Two fast tube lines to the City
  • Lots of young professionals
  • Walkable street grid
  • Expensive
  • Limited green space within the postcode itself

Battersea / Nine Elms

Brand-new high-rises around the Power Station, anchored by Battersea Park on the river. Polished but soulless in places.

  • Battersea Park
  • Northern line extension
  • Modern flats with gyms and pools
  • Expensive for the area
  • Newbuild feel — limited character
  • Limited independent shopping

Frequently asked questions

Is Islington or Battersea / Nine Elms better to live in?

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

Is Islington cheaper than Battersea / Nine Elms?

Islington is cheaper — average 1-bed rent is £2,000 vs £2,100 in Battersea / Nine Elms, a saving of £100/month.

Which has better transport — Islington or Battersea / Nine Elms?

Islington scores higher for transport (9/10 vs 8/10). Islington is served by Angel and Highbury & Islington. Battersea / Nine Elms is served by Battersea Power Station andBattersea Park.

Compare Islington with similar areas

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