Leytonstone has emerged as a property hotspot (Picture: Getty Images)
In the ever-evolving London property market, rapid decision-making remains essential, particularly in areas where properties move swiftly.
And a recent Rightmove report found that Leytonstone, in East London, is the capital’s fastest-selling residential area, with homes spending an average of just 34 days on the market.
This contrasts sharply with the London-wide average of 70 days, underscoring Leytonstone’s magnetic appeal, particularly for first-time buyers and families seeking affordable housing options without sacrificing quality.
And it appears things move quickly in East London more widely too, with additional fast-selling areas including Eltham and Romford in South East and East London, as well as Crystal Palace and Middle Park.
Walthamstow exemplifies the East London renaissance, having recently been named the best place to live in London by The Sunday Times, and is lauded for its diversity, vibrant culture, and unique village-like ambience.
The area’s house prices have skyrocketed in recent years thanks to its popularity, so it’s hardly surprising that houses in nearby Leytonstone are being quickly snapped up by those who want to be near the trendy neighbourhood.
The area is a slightly more affordable alternative to Walthamstow (Picture: Ben Cawthra/Shutterstock)
Things to do in Leytonstone
Leytonstone’s green spaces make it popular with locals, with Wanstead Park and Leyton Flats both offering a serene escape for walking, cycling or jogging along the paths and around the lakes.
Similarly, Leytonstone’s proximity to Epping Forest provides residents and visitors with an expansive natural playground.
Just a short bus or cycle ride away, the forest offers hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking opportunities, perfect for escaping the urban bustle.
More centrally, The Stone Space is an independent gallery that grew from the annual Leytonstone Arts Trail, and hosts a varied programme of exhibitions.
An Overground and Underground station connect Leytonstone to Central London (Picture: Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the William Morris Gallery in Lloyd Park is just a short journey away, and the adjacent park provides a lush green escape with picturesque walking paths, playgrounds, sports pitches, and outdoor fitness facilities.
Residents praise Leytonstone’s offering of cafes, shops and pubs — particularly the recently refurbished Red Lion — and with both a Tube station on the Central line and a London Overground station, residents have easy access to everything Central London has to offer too.
Property prices in Leytonstone
The average home price in Leytonstone is approximately £533,836, positioning it as a relatively accessible choice in comparison to many parts of London.
It’s also slightly cheaper than Walthamstow, where Rightmove says average property prices currently sit at £534,809.
House prices in Leytonstone are slightly below the London average (Picture: Glenn Copus Ii/Shutterstock)
This affordability, combined with a range of amenities, contributes to demand outstripping supply and causing quicker sales.
And when it comes to fast-selling homes, Rightmove data reveals a positive trend spreading through East London as Walthamstow and Leyton follow right behind Leytonstone, with average selling periods of 38 and 40 days respectively.
These figures strengthen East London’s reputation as a property hotspot, blending affordability with a strong community vibe.
What locals are saying about Leytonstone
The Leytonstone vs Walthamstow debate is one that has led to plenty of discussion on Reddit, with Leytonstone residents quick to share why their neighbourhood is superior.
One user who moved from Walthamstow to Leytonstone and ‘loves’ it said: ‘The area feels very safe at night, there are a few pubs and bars nearby which means there are usually people around quite late and there’s generally a really nice community feel.’
They added: ‘Really glad we ended up here instead of Walthamstow, the access to green space via the flats and beyond is brilliant and although there’s obviously not as much going on as in Walthamstow, I’ve been so pleasantly surprised by how many good local businesses, pubs etc there are on our doorstep.’
Another user who recently moved to the area added: ‘I found parts of Leytonstone to be 100k cheaper for similar properties and better access to nature’.
And one local explained how the area has improved over the years: ‘I’ve lived in Leytonstone for the last 3 years and it’s really come up. I live 5 mins from the High Road Overground and 13 mins from the tube. I love our little life here.’
They added: ‘There are new cafes popping up around us, new pop ups, really cool restaurants and even when things close down there is a new business ready to take it to a new level…I honestly think this area is overlooked and if you can afford Leytonstone I think it will improve even more.’
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