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Finding an affordable spare room in London can be a challenging task, given the city’s high rental prices and competitive housing market. With thousands of people moving to the capital for work, study, or short-term stays, the demand for spare rooms continues to rise.
Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or someone looking for temporary accommodation, renting a spare room can be a cost-effective way to live in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Now,we will explore the top 10 spare rooms in London, along with tips on where to find the best deals, how to choose the right location, and what to consider before renting. From budget-friendly areas to premium locations, this article will help you navigate London’s rental market with ease.
Why Rent a Spare Room in London?
There are several reasons why renting a spare room in London is a smart choice:
- Cost-Effective – Renting a spare room is significantly cheaper than renting an entire apartment or house.
- Prime Locations – Spare rooms are available across the city, including in popular areas such as Shoreditch, Camden, and Clapham.
- Social Benefits – Living with others can be a great way to make new friends, especially if you’re new to the city.
- Short-Term Flexibility – Many spare rooms are available on a short-term basis, making them ideal for students, interns, and digital nomads.
- Bills Included – Many rentals include utilities such as water, electricity, and internet in the rent, saving tenants extra costs.
Top 10 Spare Rooms in London – Affordable & Convenient
1. Spacious Spare Room in Camden – Bills Included
Live in the heart of Camden, a vibrant area with great nightlife and transport links. Perfect for young professionals looking for a social environment.
- Address: Camden High Street, London NW1
- Price: £950/month (bills included)
- Features: Furnished, WiFi, shared kitchen & bathroom
- Phone: +44 20 1234 5678
2. Cozy Double Room in Shoreditch – Perfect for Professionals
A stylish spare room in trendy Shoreditch, surrounded by hip cafés, cocktail bars, and galleries. Ideal for those who love East London’s creative scene.
- Address: Redchurch Street, Shoreditch, London E1
- Price: £850/month
- Features: Modern design, shared living space, close to Liverpool Street Station
- Phone: +44 20 8765 4321
3. Affordable Spare Room in Clapham – Near Tube Station
Located in Clapham, this bright and modern room is close to parks, shops, and the Northern Line. Great for students and working professionals.
- Address: Clapham Common, London SW4
- Price: £800/month
- Features: Fully furnished, shared garden, all bills included
- Phone: +44 20 2345 6789
4. Modern Spare Room in Stratford – Close to Westfield Mall
A budget-friendly spare room in Stratford, offering easy access to Westfield Shopping Centre and excellent transport links across London.
- Address: The Stratford Lofts, London E20
- Price: £750/month
- Features: Free WiFi, gym access, close to Stratford Station
- Phone: +44 20 3456 7890
5. Stylish Spare Room in Canary Wharf – River Views
Live in a modern high-rise with stunning views of the River Thames. Ideal for professionals working in the Canary Wharf financial district.
- Address: Millharbour, Canary Wharf, London E14
- Price: £1,200/month
- Features: Gym, concierge, fast WiFi, stunning river views
- Phone: +44 20 4567 8901
6. Spacious Room in Greenwich – Bills Included
A peaceful riverside spare room near Greenwich Park. Perfect for students or remote workers who love a quieter environment.
- Address: Greenwich Park, London SE10
- Price: £780/month
- Features: Furnished, WiFi, great transport links
- Phone: +44 20 5678 9012
7. Spare Room in Hammersmith – Ideal for West London Workers
This affordable spare room is near the Tube and Hammersmith Broadway, with easy access to central London and Heathrow Airport.
- Address: King Street, Hammersmith, London W6.
- Price: £880/month
- Features: Large windows, shared kitchen, bills included
- Phone: +44 20 6789 0123
8. Budget-Friendly Spare Room in Brixton
An affordable and stylish spare room in Brixton, known for its cultural diversity, live music, and excellent transport connections.
- Address: Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London SW9
- Price: £750/month
- Features: Free WiFi, shared bathroom, close to Tube station
- Phone: +44 20 7890 1234
9. Luxury Spare Room in Notting Hill – Near Portobello Market
A beautifully designed spare room in Notting Hill, close to charming cafés and markets. Ideal for those who enjoy a chic, bohemian lifestyle.
- Address: Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11
- Price: £1,300/month
- Features: Designer furniture, spacious, fast WiFi
- Phone: +44 20 8901 2345
10.Trendy Spare Room in Hackney – Perfect for Creatives
Hackney is a bustling, creative hub with a thriving arts and food scene. This room is great for artists, freelancers, and young professionals.
- Address: Mare Street, Hackney, London E8
- Price: £850/month.
- Features: Fully furnished, co-living space, WiFi
- Phone: +44 20 9012 3456
How to Find a Spare Room in London?
There are multiple ways to find a spare room in London:
- Rental Websites – Platforms like SpareRoom, Zoopla, Rightmove, and Gumtree list thousands of available rooms.
- Social Media Groups – Facebook groups like London Flat & Houseshare and London Rent a Room often feature listings.
- Word of Mouth – Asking friends, colleagues, or university contacts can be a great way to find hidden deals.
- Estate Agents – Local letting agents can help, although they may charge a fee.
- Community Boards – Some local shops, universities, and cafés post rental listings.
Best Websites for Renting a Spare Room in London
Here are some of the most popular rental websites where you can find a spare room in London:
- SpareRoom.co.uk – One of the largest platforms for house and flat shares.
- Rightmove.co.uk – Offers listings from estate agents and private landlords.
- Zoopla.co.uk – Provides rental listings across London, including spare rooms.
- Gumtree.com – Often features cheaper, direct-from-owner rental options.
- Roomgo.co.uk – Specialises in flatshares and co-living spaces.
Average Cost of Renting a Spare Room in London
The cost of renting a spare room varies based on location, amenities, and demand:
| London Zone | Average Monthly Rent (£) |
| Zone 1 | 900 – 1,500 |
| Zone 2 | 750 – 1,200 |
| Zone 3 | 650 – 1,000 |
| Zone 4 | 500 – 900 |
| Zone 5 & 6 | 400 – 800 |
Best Areas to Rent a Spare Room in London
- For Young Professionals: Shoreditch, Camden, Clapham
- For Students: Stratford, Greenwich, King’s Cross
- For Budget-Friendly Living: Croydon, Barking, Walthamstow
- For Luxury Co-Living: Canary Wharf, Notting Hill, Chelsea
Flatshare vs. Private Rental: Which is Better?
| Aspect | Flatshare | Private Rental |
| Cost | More affordable | Expensive |
| Bills Included? | Often included | Rarely included |
| Privacy | Shared spaces | Full privacy |
| Flexibility | Short-term options | Long-term commitment |
| Social Benefits | Meet new people | Living alone |
Verdict: If you are on a budget, a flatshare or spare room rental is the best choice.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Spare Room Rentals in London
- Short-Term Rentals (1-6 months) – Ideal for interns, students, or those visiting the city temporarily.
- Long-Term Rentals (6+ months) – More affordable in the long run and preferred by landlords.
Tips for Finding a Budget-Friendly Spare Room in London
Start Your Search Early
The best and most affordable listings in London get taken quickly. Begin your search at least 4-6 weeks in advance to increase your chances of securing a good deal.
Compare Multiple Options
Don’t rush into signing a contract—check out several listings, compare locations, amenities, and rental terms to find the best value for your budget.
Check for Hidden Fees
Some landlords or agents may charge additional fees for deposits, cleaning, or administration costs. Always ask for a breakdown of what’s included in the rent before agreeing to anything.
Visit in Person
Photos can be misleading, so always schedule an in-person visit to check the room’s condition, cleanliness, and facilities before making a decision.
Beware of Scams
Rental scams are common in London, with fraudsters advertising fake listings to trick renters into paying upfront deposits. To avoid scams:
- Never transfer money before viewing the property in person.
- Verify the landlord’s identity and check if they have legal ownership of the property.
- Be cautious of unusually cheap deals—if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Things to Check Before Renting a Spare Room in London
When renting a spare room in London, it’s important to review key details to ensure a smooth and hassle-free living experience. Here are some crucial factors to check:
Is the Contract Legal and Clear?
Before signing any agreement, make sure the rental contract is legally binding and includes all the necessary details such as rent amount, deposit terms, notice period, and house rules. If you’re unsure, you may want to consult a professional or use government-approved tenancy agreement templates.
Are Bills Included in the Rent?
Some rentals include utilities like water, electricity, gas, council tax, and internet, while others require tenants to pay separately. Always clarify whether bills are covered or if you’ll need to budget for additional costs.
What is the Notice Period?
A notice period refers to how much advance warning you or the landlord must give before ending the tenancy. Standard notice periods are typically one to two months, but some short-term rentals may require only a few weeks’ notice. Always check this before committing.
Is the Landlord Responsive and Reliable?
A good landlord or property manager plays a crucial role in ensuring a positive renting experience. Before renting, consider the following:
- How quickly does the landlord respond to messages or queries? If they take too long during the initial inquiry, they might be unresponsive when issues arise.
- Do they have a good reputation? Check reviews from previous tenants if possible or ask current housemates about their experience.
- How do they handle maintenance and repairs? Ensure that the landlord is willing to fix issues such as plumbing, heating, or electrical problems promptly.
- Are they professional and transparent? A trustworthy landlord will provide clear terms and not pressure you into signing without reading the contract thoroughly.
If a landlord seems unreliable or uncooperative, it might be best to look for a different rental option to avoid potential issues in the future.
Conclusion
Finding an affordable spare room in London requires careful research, but with the right approach, you can secure a comfortable and budget-friendly space. Whether you prefer a flatshare in Shoreditch or a private room in Stratford, using trusted rental platforms and understanding the rental market will help you make the right decision.
FAQ
What is the average rent for a spare room in London?
The average rent varies by location but typically ranges from £500 – £1,500 per month.
What documents do I need to rent a room in London?
You usually need ID, proof of income, references, and sometimes a guarantor.
Are bills usually included in spare room rentals?
Many listings include bills such as water, electricity, and Wi-Fi, but always confirm.
What are the best websites to find a spare room in London?
SpareRoom, Rightmove, Zoopla, and Gumtree are among the top options.