London has long been a dream destination for many homebuyers. But with skyrocketing property prices and the often frenetic pace of life, more and more people are considering alternatives outside the city. If you're looking to buy a home in London, have you thought about what you could afford just a little further afield? One fantastic option is Salisbury, a historic city that offers excellent value for money, a better quality of life, and surprisingly good connections to London. Here’s everything you need to know about making the move.

The Commute: More Manageable Than You Think

Train Services

Salisbury is well-connected to London, with direct trains running frequently to London Waterloo. During peak hours, you can expect a train every 30 minutes, and the journey typically takes about 90 minutes. If you're planning an evening out in London, the last train back to Salisbury departs Waterloo around 11:05 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy dinner, drinks, or a show!

Commuting Costs

A season ticket from Salisbury to London costs approximately £7,524 per year (as of early 2025). While this may seem high, it's worth noting that a typical annual Travelcard for Zones 1-6 in London costs around £2,800–£3,500. The key difference? The money you save on housing costs in Salisbury far outweighs the increased commuting expense.

What You Get for Your Money

The difference in property prices between London and Salisbury is striking. In London, the average cost per square foot of property is around £1,000–£1,200, depending on the location. In Salisbury, you're looking at £300–£400 per square foot - a significant saving. For the price of a small flat in London, you could afford a spacious house with a garden in Salisbury.

Quality of Life: Salisbury vs. London

Space and Family Life

If you’re thinking of starting a family, a home in Salisbury offers more space for your money, giving you room for a nursery or home office, and plenty of outdoor space for your children to play in. You’ll also have a spare room to host family and friends!

Health and Wellbeing

Salisbury is surrounded by stunning countryside and is just 20 minutes from the New Forest and 40 minutes from the coast. Weekend walks in the fresh air will do wonders for your health compared to the pollution and hectic streets of London.

Community and Friendships

You’ll be amazed how many friendships you’ll make commuting with fellow travellers from Salisbury, many of whom are also balancing London careers with a country lifestyle. Salisbury itself has a warm, friendly community, and you'll find it easy to integrate and make new friends.

Work-From-Home Flexibility

The shift towards remote and hybrid working has made Salisbury an even more attractive option. With a reliable internet connection (widely available in the area), you can work from home several days a week, significantly reducing the need for daily commutes. This balance lets you enjoy the best of both worlds.

Lifestyle and Culture

Salisbury’s Appeal

Salisbury boasts a wealth of cultural amenities, including the Salisbury Playhouse, an excellent range of pubs and restaurants, and a lively market. The city has a slower, more relaxed pace of life, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London.

Access to London

When you do feel the urge to enjoy London’s West End or world-class dining, it’s just a train ride away. Many commuters find this balance perfect - enjoying Salisbury’s charm while still being close enough to London for work or leisure.

Downsides of Living in London

High Costs: From rent and property prices to everyday living expenses, London is expensive.
Overcrowding: The city can feel claustrophobic, with cramped housing and busy public transport.
Pollution and Noise: Air quality and noise levels in London are far worse than in Salisbury.
Limited Space: London homes are often small, with little or no outdoor space.

The Final Word

If you’re looking to buy a home in London, take a moment to consider Salisbury. The city offers spacious, affordable homes, a high quality of life, and excellent connections to London. Whether you’re starting a family, seeking a better work-life balance, or just looking for a fresh start, Salisbury could be the perfect choice.

It’s time to think beyond London. Why not visit Salisbury and see for yourself? You might just fall in love with the idea of calling this beautiful city your home and move into a house like this …

See full details here: https://piccoloproperty.co.uk/property/5-bed-house-for-sale-in-mill-road-salisbury/614154