Croydon, often seen as an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable alternative to London, offers a surprising range of budget-friendly housing options. Despite the general trend of rising property prices across much of the UK, some streets in Croydon stand out for their relatively low-cost homes. According to recently released data from HM Land Registry, the lowest average house prices in the borough can be found on Barclay Road, where properties have sold for an average of just £166,166 over the past four years.
Located in Croydon’s town centre, Barclay Road has seen six property sales since January 2020, with the majority situated in St Crispin House, a distinctive block of flats. This building has long been a recognisable part of the local landscape, and its central location makes it a prime spot for buyers looking to secure a home close to transport links, shopping centres, and cultural attractions—all at a notably affordable price point compared to much of Greater London.
Affordability Across the Borough
Barclay Road is not the only street offering lower-priced properties in Croydon. Hogarth Crescent, situated in West Croydon, holds second place for affordability, with average house prices of £167,650 over the same period. Groombridge Court, a block of flats located on this street, has seen several sales in recent years, with all transactions coming in below £200,000. For buyers seeking a cost-effective entry into the property market, Hogarth Crescent remains a competitive option.
The third most affordable location in Croydon is Campbell Road, where the average sale price stands at £191,361. With 14 properties sold over the last four years, Campbell Road has experienced considerable activity, suggesting a healthy turnover of homes. Many of these properties are located in residential blocks such as Robinson Court and Clifton House, offering prospective buyers a range of choices. This street’s proximity to local schools and nurseries makes it a particularly appealing choice for families looking for affordable housing.
Top 10 Most Affordable Streets in Croydon
Croydon, known for its diverse neighbourhoods and vibrant community, features several streets where house prices remain notably low. Below is a list of the 10 cheapest streets in the borough, based on data collected between January 2020 and September 2024:
- Barclay Road, Town Centre – £166,166
- Hogarth Crescent, West Croydon – £167,650
- Campbell Road, Broad Green – £191,361
- Altyre Road, East Croydon – £206,638
- Ludford Close, Waddon – £209,781
- Clarke Close, Thornton Heath – £212,750
- Bellfield, Forestdale – £217,761
- Shrublands Avenue, Shirley – £220,555
- Burnham Gardens, Addiscombe – £229,785
- Holmbury Grove, Forestdale – £229,980
The variety of neighbourhoods on this list highlights the range of housing options available across Croydon. From the more central areas such as Barclay Road and Altyre Road, to the quieter suburbs like Forestdale and Shirley, these streets provide opportunities for buyers at a range of price points.
Croydon’s Appeal to Budget-Conscious Buyers
While property prices in much of London continue to rise, Croydon offers a unique opportunity for buyers seeking more affordable housing. Situated just 15 minutes from Central London by train, the borough boasts excellent transport links and easy access to both the city centre and surrounding areas. Additionally, its continued regeneration and development projects have made it an increasingly popular location for those priced out of other parts of London.
For buyers seeking a way onto the property ladder, streets like Barclay Road and Campbell Road present compelling options. These areas offer proximity to the heart of Croydon’s town centre, with its wide array of amenities, while maintaining average prices significantly below those found in many other parts of the capital.
The borough’s ongoing redevelopment has further enhanced its appeal. Projects such as the much-anticipated extension of a major shopping complex promise to bring additional economic growth and improve local infrastructure, potentially increasing the desirability—and thus the property values—of Croydon in the coming years. However, for now, these affordable streets offer an opportunity for buyers to secure a home at relatively low cost before broader market trends push prices higher.
Housing Market Trends and Future Outlook
While Croydon remains a hub of affordability for now, the future of the local property market may see changes as regeneration efforts continue to take shape. The expansion of commercial and residential developments could drive further demand, increasing property prices across the borough. This trend, seen in other parts of London undergoing regeneration, raises concerns that some of the borough’s more affordable streets may not stay that way for long.
Nevertheless, Croydon continues to offer a range of options for prospective homeowners. The relatively lower house prices on streets like Hogarth Crescent and Shrublands Avenue, coupled with the borough’s excellent transport links and proximity to central London, make it an appealing destination for first-time buyers and those looking for affordable homes.
Croydon’s position as an emerging property hotspot reflects broader trends across Greater London, where suburban areas are becoming increasingly attractive to those seeking better value for money. While other parts of the capital struggle with inflated housing costs, Croydon’s diversity of housing stock, from flats in central tower blocks to homes in quieter neighbourhoods, allows buyers to find options that fit their budget.
Croydon remains a strong contender for those searching for affordable housing within striking distance of central London. Streets like Barclay Road and Campbell Road, with their significantly lower-than-average property prices, provide opportunities for buyers who might otherwise be priced out of the capital. The borough’s ongoing development and regeneration projects, while promising increased economic activity and enhanced infrastructure, also raise questions about how long these low prices will last.
For now, Croydon remains an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers, with several streets offering homes well below the average price for the London area. As the borough continues to evolve, keeping a close watch on the housing market will be key for those hoping to take advantage of its current affordability before potential future price rises.
