Key differences
Crime rate /1k: Waltham Forest (24) is ahead of Islington (105)
Median price: Waltham Forest (£530k) is ahead of Islington (£658k)
Transport: Islington (60/100) is ahead of Waltham Forest (45/100)
Head-to-head comparison
The Verdict
Islington has a stronger transport score — 60/100 vs 45/100. Waltham Forest is more affordable at £530k median vs £658k.
Islington scores higher on transport, but Waltham Forest is the more affordable option.
Best for
Islington
Islington is the better pick for commuters prioritising fast central London access.
Best for
Waltham Forest
Waltham Forest suits families and those prioritising a low-crime neighbourhood.
Islington vs Waltham Forest: what the data says
Overall, Islington scores higher on liveability (73/100 vs 65/100), reflecting a better combined picture across safety, transport, schools and environment.
Property in Waltham Forest is more affordable — median price £530k vs £658k in Islington, a difference of around 19%. Over the past year prices changed +12.0% in Islington and +39.5% in Waltham Forest.
Waltham Forest has a lower crime rate (24 incidents per 1,000 residents vs 105 in Islington). Central London boroughs typically show higher per-resident figures due to large daytime populations.
Islington edges ahead on public transport connectivity (score 60/100 vs 45/100).
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