Essex, with its perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience, has become one of the UK’s most sought-after counties for homebuyers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking for an affordable entry into the property market, a growing family seeking more space, or a professional wanting easy access to London without the capital’s price tag, Essex offers a diverse range of options to suit your lifestyle and budget.
From historic market towns with centuries of character to modern developments with all the amenities you could wish for, Essex truly has something for everyone. But with so many wonderful areas to choose from, finding your perfect match can feel overwhelming.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 10 best places to live in Essex, examining what makes each area special and helping you decide which location might be your ideal home. We’ve analyzed property prices, transport links, schools, amenities, and community atmosphere to bring you a well-rounded view of Essex’s finest residential areas.
How We Ranked the Best Places to Live in Essex
Before diving into our top picks, let’s look at the criteria we used to evaluate each location. We considered affordability by analyzing average house prices and value for money, which accounted for 20% of our ranking. Transport connectivity to London and other major areas made up another 20%. The quality and variety of educational options contributed 15%, as did the availability of amenities like shopping, dining, healthcare, and leisure facilities. Access to green spaces, community atmosphere, and future development potential each accounted for 10% of our final rankings.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the best places to call home in Essex.
1. Chelmsford: The Heart of Essex
Location: Central Essex
Average House Price: £404,000
Why Chelmsford Tops Our List
As Essex’s only city, Chelmsford combines the convenience of urban living with easy access to beautiful countryside. Since gaining city status in 2012, Chelmsford has seen significant investment and development, making it one of the most vibrant and well-equipped places to live in the county.
Property Market Overview
Chelmsford offers diverse housing options to suit various budgets and preferences. The city center features modern apartments perfect for young professionals, while the Golden Triangle area is known for its beautiful Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. Families often gravitate toward the spacious homes in suburbs like Springfield and Great Baddow, and those seeking contemporary luxury can find impressive new-build developments on the city outskirts. The average property price of £404,000 reflects Chelmsford’s desirability, though this varies significantly by neighborhood and property type.
Education Excellence
Chelmsford boasts some of Essex’s finest educational institutions. King Edward VI Grammar School is consistently ranked among England’s top state schools, while Chelmsford County High School for Girls maintains an excellent academic reputation. The prestigious Anglia Ruskin University campus adds a vibrant student population to the city, and parents of younger children appreciate the multiple “Outstanding” rated primary schools throughout the area.
Transport and Connectivity
One of Chelmsford’s greatest strengths is its exceptional transport links. The railway station offers a 35-minute journey to London Liverpool Street, making it ideal for commuters. Direct rail connections to Ipswich, Norwich, and Cambridge provide easy access to other major East Anglian cities. Motorists benefit from easy access to the A12 and M25, and Stansted Airport is just 30 minutes away, perfect for business travelers and holiday makers alike.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Chelmsford offers an impressive array of amenities that enhance quality of life. The recently redeveloped Bond Street shopping area has brought premium retailers and dining options to the city, complementing the established High Street with its mix of major brands and independent shops. Food enthusiasts enjoy the diverse dining scene, from cozy cafés to fine dining restaurants. The Riverside Ice and Leisure complex provides excellent sports facilities, while Hylands Park, home to the former V Festival site, offers 574 acres of historic parkland for outdoor enthusiasts. Regular farmers’ markets and food festivals add to the city’s vibrant community feel.
The Chelmsford Experience
Living in Chelmsford offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city center buzzes with activity, especially on weekends when shoppers and diners fill the streets. Yet within minutes, residents can escape to peaceful riverside walks along the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation or explore the beautiful Essex countryside. The strong sense of community is evident in the numerous local events, from the summer festival to Christmas markets. While property prices are higher than some Essex locations, many residents feel the excellent schools, transport links, and amenities more than justify the investment.
2. Brentwood: Sophisticated Suburban Living
Location: South Essex
Average House Price: £560,000
The Brentwood Appeal
Brentwood has emerged as one of Essex’s most prestigious addresses, offering a perfect blend of countryside charm and metropolitan convenience. Made famous by the reality show “The Only Way Is Essex,” Brentwood has far more to offer than its television portrayal suggests.
Property Landscape
Brentwood’s property market caters to the upper end of the spectrum with elegant period properties lining tree-lined streets, especially in the exclusive Hutton Mount area. Character cottages can be found in neighboring villages like Shenfield, while contemporary apartments near the station appeal to commuters. With an average price of £560,000, Brentwood represents a significant investment, but many residents feel the quality of life justifies the cost.
The variety of architectural styles creates a distinctive character throughout the town. From grand Victorian villas to Arts and Crafts influenced homes from the early 20th century, there’s a rich tapestry of housing that gives each neighborhood its unique feel. The most sought-after roads, such as Priests Lane and Shenfield Road, command premium prices for their combination of spacious plots, mature gardens, and proximity to amenities.
Education and Schools
Families are drawn to Brentwood for its exceptional educational opportunities. Brentwood School, one of the UK’s leading independent schools, offers outstanding education from nursery through sixth form. St Martin’s School is consistently rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, while primary schools including Hogarth and St Helen’s provide excellent early years education. The area’s strong academic reputation means homes within catchment areas of the best schools often command a premium.
Transport Connections
Brentwood’s location makes it ideal for commuters. The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) services provide fast access to London, with direct trains to Liverpool Street in under 40 minutes. The town’s position near the junction of the M25 and A12 offers straightforward routes to all parts of England. Both Stansted and Southend airports are easily accessible, making international travel convenient for residents. This exceptional connectivity has been a significant factor in Brentwood’s rising popularity and property values.
Local Lifestyle
Brentwood offers a sophisticated lifestyle with excellent amenities. The High Street features a pleasing mix of boutiques and brands, complemented by the Baytree Shopping Centre. Foodies appreciate the award-winning restaurants and gastropubs that have established the town as a dining destination. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Weald Country Park with its 500 acres of woodland, lakes, and meadows. Cultural offerings include the intimate Brentwood Theatre and various music venues, while the town’s leisure center provides excellent sports facilities. Throughout the year, community events from summer fairs to Christmas markets bring residents together.
3. Saffron Walden: Historic Charm and Community Spirit
Location: North West Essex
Average House Price: £447,000
The Appeal of Saffron Walden
This picturesque market town offers a slice of quintessential English charm with its medieval architecture, quaint streets, and strong community spirit. Dating back to the medieval period, Saffron Walden remains one of Essex’s most characterful and appealing towns.
The town takes its name from the saffron crocus that was grown here during the 16th and 17th centuries when the valuable spice made the area prosperous. This rich history is evident in the town’s architecture, with over 400 listed buildings creating an atmosphere that feels almost frozen in time. The historic center features narrow, winding streets lined with timber-framed buildings, while the Market Square hosts one of the country’s oldest markets, established in 1141 and still thriving today.
Housing Market and Living Environment
Saffron Walden’s property market is characterized by stunning timber-framed medieval buildings in the town center, elegant Georgian and Victorian townhouses along the main streets, and modern family homes on the outskirts. The surrounding countryside offers converted barns and country properties for those seeking rural tranquility. At an average of £447,000, property prices reflect the town’s desirability and historical significance.
The town’s conservation area ensures that development respects the historic character, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the center. Streets like Church Street and Bridge Street showcase some of the finest examples of period architecture, with their gabled houses and historic shopfronts. The newer developments on the town’s periphery have been designed to complement rather than compete with the historic core, maintaining Saffron Walden’s distinctive character.
Cultural Life and Community
Saffron Walden offers a rich cultural experience centered around its twice-weekly market and numerous annual events. The stunning Audley End House and Gardens, a magnificent Jacobean mansion managed by English Heritage, hosts concerts and historical reenactments throughout the summer. Saffron Hall has established itself as a concert venue with world-class acoustics, attracting internationally renowned musicians and ensembles. The town center is filled with independent shops, boutiques, and cafés rather than chain stores, creating a unique shopping experience.
The sense of community is palpable, especially during events like the Saffron Walden Carnival, the UK’s longest-running event of its kind, which takes place every three years and involves almost everyone in town. The beautiful Bridge End Garden, a restored Victorian garden with its hedge maze and Dutch garden, provides a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation. Throughout the year, the community comes together for events ranging from literary festivals to outdoor cinema screenings, fostering connections between residents of all ages.
4. Colchester: Ancient History Meets Modern Living
Location: North East Essex
Average House Price: £325,000
Colchester’s Unique Character
As Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester offers a fascinating blend of ancient history and contemporary amenities. Walking through Colchester is like taking a journey through time, from its Roman walls and Norman castle to its Victorian architecture and modern developments. This rich historical tapestry creates a distinctive atmosphere that sets Colchester apart from other Essex towns.
The town’s Roman heritage is evident in its layout and the remains of its walls, while Colchester Castle stands as a proud reminder of Norman power. The Dutch Quarter showcases beautiful medieval and Tudor buildings, and the town’s numerous churches span centuries of architectural styles. This sense of history pervades Colchester, giving residents a strong connection to the past while enjoying all the conveniences of modern living.
Property and Lifestyle
Colchester’s diverse property market includes character properties within the historic town center, where converted Georgian townhouses sit alongside medieval timber-framed buildings. The Victorian and Edwardian houses in Lexden and New Town offer spacious family accommodation with period features, while modern developments in areas like Mile End and Stanway provide contemporary living at more accessible price points. With an average price of £325,000, Colchester offers better value than many Essex locations closer to London.
The town center buzzes with activity, especially around the recently revitalized Culver Square and Lion Walk shopping areas. Independent retailers flourish alongside national chains, and the market operates three days a week. Cultural offerings abound, from the firstsite contemporary art gallery in its striking golden building to the Mercury Theatre, which produces excellent productions throughout the year. Colchester Zoo, consistently rated one of the UK’s best, provides a fantastic day out for families.
The University of Essex has brought a youthful energy to the town, with its diverse student population contributing to a cosmopolitan atmosphere. This has enhanced the dining scene, with restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, while traditional pubs provide a taste of old England. Throughout the year, festivals and events celebrate everything from oysters to film, adding to the town’s vibrant cultural calendar.
Future Development and Opportunities
Colchester is a town embracing its future while honoring its past. Significant investment in infrastructure and housing is creating new opportunities for residents and businesses alike. The Northern Gateway development is bringing sports facilities, business parks, and housing to the town, while the creative quarter around Queen Street is fostering a hub for arts and digital industries.
The town’s strategic location between London and the ports of Harwich and Felixstowe positions it well for future growth, particularly in logistics and international trade. Meanwhile, its rich heritage continues to attract tourists, supporting a growing hospitality sector. For homebuyers, this combination of established character and future potential makes Colchester an attractive proposition, offering the possibility of capital growth alongside an excellent quality of life.
5. Epping: Gateway to Forest Living
Location: South Essex
Average House Price: £615,000
The Epping Experience
Positioned on the edge of the ancient Epping Forest, this market town offers a unique combination of natural beauty, excellent connectivity, and upscale living. Popular with celebrities and city professionals, Epping provides an escape from London without sacrificing convenience.
Epping Forest itself is perhaps the town’s greatest asset – 6,000 acres of ancient woodland stretching from London to just north of the town. This protected forest, once a royal hunting ground, offers endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The town’s positioning at the very edge of Greater London creates a fascinating transition between urban and rural landscapes, giving residents the best of both worlds.
The High Street retains much of its historic character, with buildings dating from the 16th century onwards creating a distinctive sense of place. The weekly market, granted by royal charter in 1253, continues to bring the community together, while independent shops and restaurants give the town center a vibrant, prosperous feel. Despite being just 17 miles from central London, Epping maintains a strong sense of community and local identity.
Living in Epping: Amenities and Attractions
Life in Epping centers around its blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. The town center offers boutique shopping and dining experiences, with a range of independent retailers alongside convenient supermarkets. Restaurants range from traditional English pubs to contemporary fine dining, while cafés and delis serve the town’s affluent clientele.
For families, the area offers excellent recreational facilities, from sports clubs to outdoor activities in the forest. The annual Epping Town Show brings the community together for a celebration of local culture, while seasonal events mark the calendar throughout the year. Just a short drive away, the Lee Valley Regional Park provides additional outdoor opportunities, from water sports to wildlife watching.
The proximity to London means that all the capital’s cultural offerings are within easy reach, while the nearby towns of Loughton and Harlow provide additional shopping and entertainment options. This combination of local charm and metropolitan accessibility creates a lifestyle that many residents find irresistible, despite the premium property prices.
Comparing Essex’s Top Locations
| Area | Avg. House Price | London Commute | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chelmsford | £404,000 | 35 min | Urban amenities with countryside access |
| Brentwood | £560,000 | 40 min | Upscale suburban living with excellent schools |
| Saffron Walden | £447,000 | 60 min | Historic charm and strong community |
| Colchester | £325,000 | 50 min | Cultural offerings and affordable housing |
| Epping | £615,000 | 45 min | Forest living with London on the doorstep |
6. Basildon: Modern Convenience and Affordability
Location: South Essex
Average House Price: £340,000
Basildon’s Transformation
Originally developed as a New Town in the post-war period, Basildon has undergone significant regeneration to become a thriving modern center. The town’s transformation is ongoing, with the £1 billion town center regeneration program set to further enhance its appeal in the coming years.
Basildon was designed with modern living in mind, with distinct neighborhoods each with their own character and amenities. The town’s layout reflects mid-20th century planning ideals, with generous green spaces, separate pedestrian and vehicular routes, and good access to facilities. While this heritage created some challenges, recent development has addressed many of these issues, creating a more cohesive and attractive urban environment.
The town center has seen substantial investment, with the Eastgate Shopping Centre providing a focal point for retail. New residential developments have brought contemporary apartments to the heart of the town, while the Festival Leisure Park offers entertainment options ranging from cinema to bowling and restaurants. This combination of affordable housing and good amenities has made Basildon increasingly popular, particularly with first-time buyers and young families.
Community and Lifestyle
Basildon offers a modern, convenient lifestyle with everything necessary for comfortable living. The Sporting Village, built for the 2012 Olympics, provides world-class sports facilities, including a 50-meter swimming pool where Olympic medalist Tom Daley trained. Gloucester Park offers 250 acres of green space in the heart of the town, with a boating lake, sports fields, and play areas.
The town’s cultural offerings are growing, with the Towngate Theatre presenting a varied program of performances throughout the year. The Basildon Festival celebrates the town’s diversity with music, food, and activities, while community groups catering to various interests bring residents together. While Basildon may lack the historical character of older Essex towns, it compensates with practical amenities and a forward-looking approach to development.
Education is well-served, with James Hornsby School and other institutions providing good quality teaching. Healthcare is centered around Basildon Hospital, which serves a wide area of south Essex. The town’s central location means that residents can easily access the wider attractions of Essex, from the seaside at Southend to the countryside of the Dengie Peninsula.
7. Braintree: Rural Charm with Modern Convenience
Location: North Essex
Average House Price: £356,000
Braintree’s Balanced Appeal
This historic market town offers a perfect balance of rural charm and modern amenities. With its distinctive character, excellent shopping facilities, and beautiful surrounding countryside, Braintree appeals to those seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.
Braintree’s history dates back to the medieval period, with the town developing as a center for the wool trade and later becoming known for silk weaving. This industrial heritage is celebrated in the Braintree Museum, which tells the story of the town’s development from ancient times to the present day. The town center retains much of its historic character, with buildings from the 16th century onwards creating a distinctive sense of place.
One of Braintree’s most notable features is Freeport Braintree, a designer outlet village that attracts shoppers from across the region. This complements the George Yard Shopping Centre in the town center, providing a comprehensive retail offering rarely found in towns of this size. For everyday needs, the weekly market continues a tradition dating back hundreds of years, while independent shops add character to the High Street.
Living in Braintree: Amenities and Community
Life in Braintree offers a comfortable pace, with the convenience of good amenities in beautiful surroundings. Great Notley Country Park provides 100 acres of recreational space, including the famous “Sky Ropes” adventure course and extensive play areas. The surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities for walking and cycling, with picturesque villages like Finchingfield and Castle Hedingham just a short drive away.
The town’s community spirit is evident in its various events and festivals throughout the year. The Braintree Arts Theatre hosts performances ranging from drama to music and comedy, while local pubs and restaurants offer dining options from traditional English fare to international cuisine. Sports enthusiasts are well-served by facilities including Braintree Swimming Centre and various sports clubs.
Education is a strength, with Notley High School rated “Good” with outstanding features, and several well-regarded primary schools. While Braintree doesn’t have its own university, the proximity to Chelmsford and Colchester provides access to higher education without leaving Essex. Healthcare is centered around Braintree Community Hospital, with more specialist services available in nearby larger towns.
Finding Your Perfect Essex Home
Essex offers remarkable diversity, from vibrant cities to tranquil villages, historic market towns to modern developments. The best location for you depends on your priorities and lifestyle needs. London commuters might prioritize areas like Brentwood, Epping, and Chelmsford with their fast connections to the capital. Families focused on education often gravitate toward Chelmsford, Saffron Walden, and Colchester with their exceptional schools.
First-time buyers working with limited budgets should explore Basildon, Harlow, and Braintree, where more affordable options can be found without compromising on amenities. Those seeking countryside living will appreciate Saffron Walden, Epping, and Braintree for their easy access to natural beauty. Urban amenities are most comprehensive in Chelmsford, Colchester, and Basildon, offering everything from shopping to entertainment.
When considering a move to Essex, it’s worth visiting potential areas at different times – weekdays, weekends, and evenings – to get a true feel for the location. If commuting will be part of your routine, test the journey during peak times to understand what your daily experience might be like. For families, researching school catchment areas is essential before making a purchase decision.
Looking to the future, investigate planned infrastructure projects that might affect property values or quality of life in your chosen area. Finally, don’t limit your search to the main towns – some of Essex’s most charming locations are smaller villages that offer excellent quality of life with access to larger centers when needed.
Conclusion: The Essex Advantage
Essex continues to grow in popularity for good reason. With its diverse property market, excellent transport links, strong educational institutions, and beautiful blend of countryside and urban amenities, the county offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Saffron Walden, the urban convenience of Chelmsford, or the forest setting of Epping, Essex provides abundant options for creating your ideal home. As London property prices continue to rise, Essex represents not just a lifestyle choice but a smart investment for the future.
Take the time to explore these wonderful locations, and you might just find your perfect Essex home waiting for you.