Key differences
Transport: Tower Hamlets (64/100) is ahead of Barking and Dagenham (30/100)
Crime rate /1k: Barking and Dagenham (86) is ahead of Tower Hamlets (121)
Liveability: Tower Hamlets (70/100) is ahead of Barking and Dagenham (53/100)
Head-to-head comparison
The Verdict
Tower Hamlets has a stronger transport score — 64/100 vs 30/100. Barking and Dagenham is more affordable at £362k median vs £475k.
Barking and Dagenham is cheaper, but Tower Hamlets scores higher on transport.
Best for
Barking and Dagenham
Barking and Dagenham suits families and those prioritising a low-crime neighbourhood.
Best for
Tower Hamlets
Tower Hamlets is the better pick for commuters prioritising fast central London access.
Barking and Dagenham vs Tower Hamlets: what the data says
Overall, Tower Hamlets scores higher on liveability (53/100 vs 70/100), reflecting a better combined picture across safety, transport, schools and environment.
Property in Barking and Dagenham is more affordable — median price £362k vs £475k in Tower Hamlets, a difference of around 24%. Over the past year prices changed +1.7% in Barking and Dagenham and -0.7% in Tower Hamlets.
Barking and Dagenham has a lower crime rate (86 incidents per 1,000 residents vs 121 in Tower Hamlets). Central London boroughs typically show higher per-resident figures due to large daytime populations.
Tower Hamlets edges ahead on public transport connectivity (score 64/100 vs 30/100).
Top-rated postcodes
Frequently asked questions
Compare any two London postcodes
The interactive tool lets you compare any two specific postcodes — not just boroughs — with a full metric-by-metric breakdown.
Open postcode comparison tool →