Guide To Living In Islington, Greater London, England
Property Prices & Market Trends in Islington
The median price of properties sold in Islington over the past year is £625,000. This is +25% higher than the median in London (£500,000) and +119% higher than the national average (£285,000). Over the past six months, property prices in Islington have decreased by 21% year on year, which is a steeper decline than the regional trend, where prices have been flat (down just 2%). This sharper drop in Islington could signal affordability pressures or increased buyer caution, possibly as higher borrowing costs and economic uncertainty begin to influence decision-making in this premium London borough.
There were 235 properties sold in Islington over the past year. Approximately 82% were flats, 14% terraced homes, 3% semi-detached, and just 1% detached homes. This highlights that the Islington property market is heavily weighted towards flat living, a key feature of inner-London areas. Prospective buyers looking for larger family homes may find inventory limited, especially in detached or semi-detached categories, which could result in more competition or compromise when searching for these property types.
In the last six months, transaction levels in Islington are up by +96% compared to the same period a year ago. This is significantly higher than both the regional trend (+9%) and the national trend (+9%), indicating a surge in buyer activity locally. Such a spike suggests growing interest in homes in Islington, possibly due to softening prices making properties more attractive or a backlog of demand returning to the market post-pandemic volatility.
Based on these figures, the Islington property market is relatively hot compared to London and the UK overall. The sharp rise in transactions points to renewed buyer enthusiasm, even as prices drop — potentially reflecting opportunistic purchasers or improved affordability. However, high prices in comparison to regional and national averages and the heavy skew toward flats may mean buyers are entering this market with clear trade-offs in mind.
Beyond the numbers, Islington continues to appeal for its vibrant mix of culture, connectivity, and character. The area offers strong public transport links, top state and independent schools, and an excellent selection of green spaces like Highbury Fields. For buyers, especially professionals and smaller households, the lifestyle offering can be compelling. However, high property values by national standards and limited availability of larger homes mean purchasers should weigh up whether the location justifies the premium, particularly in a market that is still adjusting to broader economic shifts.
View Properties for Sale in Islington, North London Area
Nicest places to live in Islington
The Islington property market has seen particularly strong interest over the past year in postal codes such as N19 4JU, EC1V 2AU and N7 6PG. N19 4JU is often viewed as one of the nicest places to live, popular with families thanks to its well-regarded primary schools and spacious local parks that encourage outdoor lifestyles. Green spaces like Whittington Park and a variety of child-friendly amenities make this area especially appealing for those settling down with young children.
Meanwhile, EC1V 2AU tends to attract commuters looking for straightforward rail connections to larger employment hubs, with excellent proximity to Angel and Old Street stations and a range of modern housing developments. In contrast, N7 6PG draws buyers seeking charming Victorian terraces and vibrant community life, with cosy coffee shops, independent bookshops and weekend artisan markets around Holloway Road and Tufnell Park adding to its appeal. All of this underlines how homes in Islington provide a diverse mix of attractive options, cementing its reputation within the London housing market as a destination full of some of the nicest and most desirable addresses for a wide range of buyers.
Transport & Connectivity in Islington
Islington offers excellent transport options, making it ideal for commuters and residents alike. islington transport is seamlessly connected through several London connections, including the Northern line at Highbury & Islington station and numerous bus routes that serve the area. Major roads like the A1 and A503 provide convenient road access, while nearby rail links extend to King’s Cross and St Pancras stations. With its proximity to London airports and central London, islington commuting is both practical and efficient.
School & Education in Islington
Families considering islington for their new home will find a vibrant selection of islington schools and excellent islington education options, making it a highly desirable area within london catchment areas. Top primary and secondary schools such as St. Jude's Church of England School and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School benefit from strong Ofsted ratings, ensuring quality education for children. For those seeking independent or grammar school options, islington provides access to notable establishments like the Central Foundation Boys' School. With its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to reputable london universities such as UCL, islington remains a prime choice for parents prioritising excellent islington schools and education.
Amenities & Recreation in Islington
Living in islington offers unbeatable london local facilities and a vibrant islington lifestyle. The area boasts a diverse array of local shops along the islington high street, alongside popular cafes, pubs, and restaurants that create a lively community atmosphere. Residents can enjoy green spaces like Highbury Fields and Canonbury Gardens, as well as excellent leisure centres and medical facilities. These islington amenities make it an attractive choice for home buyers seeking both convenience and culture in London.