Moving from London to Cambridge opens new opportunities with better housing prices, a different pace of life, and world-class educational facilities.
Quick Facts About Cambridge
- Distance from London: 64 miles (103 km)
- Train journey time: 45-90 minutes from Kings Cross/Liverpool Street
- Average house price: £531,730 (2023)
- Population: 145,700
Transportation Options
Direct trains run from London King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations to Cambridge, with season tickets costing approximately £5,000 annually.
Driving takes about 1.5 hours via the M11, though traffic can significantly impact journey times during peak hours.
Housing Areas to Consider
- Cherry Hinton – Family-friendly suburb with good schools
- Trumpington – Modern developments with excellent transport links
- Mill Road – Diverse area with independent shops and restaurants
- Chesterton – Riverside location with good cycling access
Cost Comparison
| Expense | London (avg) | Cambridge (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed flat rent | £1,700 | £1,200 |
| Council tax | £1,500/year | £1,800/year |
Practical Moving Tips
- Book removal companies at least 8 weeks in advance – recommended firms include Pickfords and Bishop’s Move
- Register with Cambridge City Council (www.cambridge.gov.uk) for council tax and services
- Set up utilities through Cambridge Water and UK Power Networks
- Consider cycling as your primary transport – Cambridge has extensive cycling infrastructure
Employment Options
The Cambridge Science Park and Addenbrooke’s Hospital are major employers, alongside the University and growing tech sector.
The average salary in Cambridge is £35,000, compared to London’s £41,000.
Healthcare Services
- Addenbrooke’s Hospital – Main teaching hospital
- Register with local GPs through NHS Choices website
- Emergency services: 999 or 111 for non-emergencies
Social Integration
- Join Meetup groups for newcomers to Cambridge
- Consider university alumni networks
- Local sports clubs and societies through the City Council website
For more detailed information about specific areas or services, contact the Cambridge City Council Information Centre at 01223 457000.
Education Opportunities
Beyond the University of Cambridge, the city offers excellent state and private schools. Notable institutions include:
- The Perse School
- St Faith’s School
- Hills Road Sixth Form College
- Cambridge Regional College for vocational courses
Cultural Life
Cambridge offers rich cultural experiences with significantly lower costs than London:
- Cambridge Arts Theatre
- The Junction for contemporary performances
- Kettle’s Yard art gallery
- Annual events like Cambridge Folk Festival and Science Festival
Green Spaces
- Jesus Green – Perfect for picnics and outdoor swimming
- Parker’s Piece – Historic recreational ground
- The Botanic Gardens
- Grantchester Meadows – Famous riverside walks
Conclusion
Moving to Cambridge from London offers a balanced lifestyle change with significant benefits in terms of housing costs and quality of life. While the initial transition requires careful planning, the city’s strong infrastructure, educational excellence, and cultural offerings make it an attractive alternative to London living.
Key considerations for a successful move:
- Plan commuting arrangements early if maintaining London employment
- Research specific neighborhoods based on individual needs
- Budget for slightly higher council tax but lower overall living costs
- Embrace the cycling culture for efficient local travel
- Take advantage of the extensive networking opportunities in the academic and tech sectors
FAQs
- What is the average cost of moving from London to Cambridge?
The cost typically ranges from £800 to £1,500 for a 2-3 bedroom house, including professional movers. Costs vary based on volume, timing, and specific services required. - How long is the commute between London and Cambridge?
The train journey from Cambridge to London King’s Cross takes approximately 50-90 minutes depending on the service. By car, the journey via the M11 typically takes 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic. - What are the main differences in housing costs between London and Cambridge?
Cambridge property prices are generally 20-30% lower than London, with the average house price in Cambridge around £500,000 compared to London’s £700,000+. Rental prices are also typically lower in Cambridge. - Do I need to change my registered address with any authorities?
Yes, you must update your address with DVLA, electoral register, council tax, banks, insurance providers, GP, and any other relevant institutions or service providers. - What are the best areas to live in Cambridge for London commuters?
CB1 (near Cambridge Station), Great Shelford, and Trumpington are popular areas for commuters due to their proximity to transport links and amenities. - How does council tax in Cambridge compare to London?
Cambridge council tax rates are generally lower than most London boroughs, with the average Band D property in Cambridge costing less annually than comparable London properties. - What removal services are available for the London to Cambridge route?
Multiple removal companies specialize in this route, offering services from basic transport to full packing and unpacking services. Major companies include Bishop’s Move, Pickfords, and numerous local operators. - How far in advance should I book removal services?
Book removal services at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially if moving during peak periods (summer months, end/beginning of month, or weekends). - What documentation do I need for renting or buying in Cambridge?
You’ll need proof of ID, proof of current address, employment references, bank statements, and proof of income. For buying, you’ll also need mortgage documentation if applicable. - Are there any major differences in utilities and service providers?
While many major utility providers operate in both cities, you may need to switch to local Cambridge providers for some services. Water is provided by Cambridge Water rather than Thames Water.