England is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming villages. However, just like in any other country, some worst places to live in England might destroy your stay there.
Numerous factors can make a place unpleasant to call home, from high crime rates to poor living conditions. In this blog, we’ll look closely at some of England’s worst places to live.
Whether you’re planning to move to a new area or simply curious about the less desirable locations in the country, this blog will provide insights into some places you may want to avoid. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Criteria for Evaluating “Worst” Places
In selecting the top 10 worst places to live in England, we considered several key factors that heavily influence a location’s livability.
These criteria provide a concrete foundation for understanding why certain towns and cities stand out for their negative qualities.
Here’s a breakdown of the factors we used to evaluate each place:
Crime Rates
High crime rates are a significant contributor to a location’s poor reputation. Areas like Luton and Peterborough are notorious for their elevated levels of criminal activity, including burglary, violent crime, and antisocial behavior. These statistics affect residents’ sense of safety and contribute to an overall negative living experience.
Unemployment and Job Opportunities
A high unemployment rate or limited job prospects often lead to economic hardship. In towns like Luton and Portsmouth, the lack of well-paying and sustainable jobs not only impacts the financial stability of residents but also stifles economic growth, making these locations less attractive for families and young professionals alike.
Cost of Living
While living expenses are naturally higher in certain parts of England, areas where the cost of living is disproportionately high relative to income can create a significant burden. For example, Bournemouth’s high cost of living—without the job market to match—can make it difficult for residents to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, exacerbating the town’s challenges.
Social Services and Infrastructure
Poor access to essential services such as healthcare, public transport, and utilities also plays a critical role. In towns like Andover and Aldershot, underfunded social services and strained infrastructure hinder day-to-day living and make these places less desirable to call home.
Access to Education
The quality of education is another major factor, especially for families. In locations where schools underperform or resources are lacking, residents may find it difficult to secure a bright future for their children. Peterborough, for instance, suffers from low-performing schools, making it less appealing to families looking to settle down.
This set of criteria was used consistently across all the locations in our list, ensuring an objective and comprehensive assessment of each town’s living conditions.
By keeping these factors in mind, we were able to provide a clear and consistent ranking of the worst places to live in England, giving you a well-rounded view of why these particular areas stand out for their negative characteristics.
9 Worst Places to live in England
We’ve identified the worst places to live in England. Here are a few:
1. Luton
Luton, a city, is considered the worst place to live in the United Kingdom. It often lies at the top of the list. The town is situated in Bedfordshire and has a population of around 215,000.
One of the most significant factors contributing to Luton’s reputation is its high crime rate. According to official statistics, Luton is one of the top 20 areas in the country with the highest crime rates. The crime rate in the town has increased in recent years. This has understandably led to concerns about safety and security for residents and visitors alike.
Another reason why Luton is one of the worst places to live in England is its poor living conditions. The town has a high population density, with many people living in cramped and overcrowded conditions.
Luton is also known for its limited job opportunities. The town has a higher-than-average unemployment rate, with many people struggling to find work. Those who are employed often work in low-paid jobs with limited career prospects, making it difficult to make ends meet and improve their standard of living.
2. Peterborough
Lack of cultural diversity, higher crime rates, and low quality of schools are the most prominent causes that might affect your living experience in Peterborough.
Location is another factor contributing to the negative perception of the city. Situated in the East Midlands, it’s often seen as a bit of an outlier compared to other major cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham. While it’s true that Peterborough is not as well-known or as centrally located as other cities, it still has plenty to offer those willing to try it.
Some city areas are known for higher crime rates, and traffic can be a problem during peak hours. Additionally, while there are undoubtedly cultural offerings in Peterborough, it may not have the same diversity or breadth of options as larger cities.
3. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is also among England’s 10 worst places to live. It is a coastal city in southern England, has a negative perception due to increased crime rates, unemployment, increased cost of living, and social problems.
One of the important factors that may contribute to negative perceptions of Portsmouth is its history as a naval port. While this history is undoubtedly interesting and important, it also means that the city has faced poverty, addiction, and crime challenges.
Another factor that may contribute to negative perceptions of Portsmouth is its size. The city is not as significant as other major cities like London or Manchester; it still has a population of over 200,000 people. This can make the city crowded and busy, particularly during peak tourist season.
While it’s true that the city has its challenges, it’s also important to acknowledge that it has many positive aspects. As with any place, it’s worth researching and considering your priorities and needs before deciding whether to call Portsmouth home.
4. Slough
One factor that contributes to negative perceptions of Slough is its location. While it’s relatively close to London, it’s not as well-known or centrally located as other major cities like Manchester or Birmingham. This can make it feel somewhat isolated or disconnected from the rest of the country.
Another factor contributing to negative perceptions of Slough is its industrial history. In the past, Slough was known for its manufacturing industry, particularly in bricks and pottery. While this history is undoubtedly exciting and essential, it also means that the town has faced challenges related to pollution, industrial decline, and economic hardship.
Additionally, some areas of Slough have been identified as among the most deprived in the country, with high rates of poverty, unemployment, and social issues. This can make it a challenging place to live for those who are struggling financially or socially.
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5. Aylesbury
Some people may negatively perceive Aylesbury, a market town in Buckinghamshire, England. These perceptions may stem from various factors, including crime rates, traffic congestion, and social issues.
One factor that may contribute to negative perceptions of Aylesbury is its traffic. The town is located at the intersection of several major roads, including the A41 and the Aylesbury ring road. This can make it a busy and congested place to live, particularly during rush hour.
The crime rate also contributes to negative perceptions of Aylesbury. While it’s not considered a dangerous place to live, some areas of the town have higher crime rates than others. In particular, the South court area has been identified as a hotspot for antisocial behaviors and other crimes. Moreover, under official claims, the business community of the region is in danger to these factors.
Aylesbury has a thriving town center with many shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The town also has a strong sense of community, with several local organizations and events that unite people.
6. Aldershot
People may have negative perceptions of Aldershot, a town in Hampshire, England. These perceptions may stem from various factors, including crime rates, unemployment, and social issues.
One factor that may contribute to negative perceptions of Aldershot is its military history. The town has long been associated with the military and has several military barracks and training facilities.
Another factor that may contribute to negative perceptions of Aldershot is its transport links. While the town is relatively well-connected to other parts of the country, making it difficult to get cheap train tickets or public transport, particularly during rush hour.
Additionally, some areas of Aldershot have been identified as among the most deprived in the country, with high rates of poverty, unemployment, and social issues. This can make it a challenging place to live for those who are struggling financially or socially.
7. Andover
One factor that may contribute to negative perceptions of Andover is its high crime rate. In particular, the town center has been identified as a hotspot for antisocial behavior and other crimes.
Some areas of Andover have been identified as the most deprived in the country, with high unemployment rates and social issues. This can make it a challenging place to live, especially for those struggling financially or socially.
Transportation is another common problem faced by people living in the UK, Andover to be more specific.
It’s worth noting that Andover also has many positive aspects. It has a rich history and several cultural attractions, including the Andover Museum and the Hawk Conservancy Trust. The town also has several parks and green spaces, including the Anton Lakes Local Nature Reserve and the Vigo Recreation Ground.
8. Swindon
Swindon is a town located in the county of Wiltshire, England. It has a population of around 182,441 between Bristol and London. While some people may find Swindon a pleasant place to live, others might not share the same opinion.
Unfortunately, Swindon has one of the highest crime rates in the country. According to the latest crime statistics, the town ranks in the top 10% of the most dangerous areas in England and Wales. Swindon is an industrial town and has seen rapid development in recent years. As a result, there is a need for more green spaces and recreational areas for residents to enjoy.
Swindon was heavily bombed during World War II, destroying many of the town’s buildings. Consequently, Swindon has a reputation for uninspiring architecture.
While Swindon has a strong manufacturing and engineering industry, the town has a limited job market compared to other areas in England. This means finding work in Swindon can be challenging.
Swindon is on the M4 motorway, one of the UK’s busiest roads. As a result, there is often significant traffic congestion in and around the town, making commuting a nightmare.
9. Bournemouth
Bournemouth is a coastal town located in Dorset, England. Its population is around 200,000 people, known for its sandy beaches, Victorian architecture, and vibrant nightlife. While some people may consider Bournemouth a desirable place to live, others might not share the same opinion.
Bournemouth is an affluent town, and the cost of living is relatively high compared to other areas in England. Housing, food, and entertainment are all expensive, making it challenging for those on a budget.
While Bournemouth has a thriving tourism industry, the town has a limited job market in other sectors. Finding work in Bournemouth can be challenging, especially for those seeking career advancement.
The city is a popular tourist destination, so the roads become congested during peak season. This can make commuting difficult and add extra stress to daily life.
Bournemouth is predominantly a white, middle-class town lacking cultural, ethnic, and social class diversity. This may not appeal to those who prefer an inclusive community. While it is a coastal town with plenty of sunshine during the summer, it can also be prone to strong winds, heavy rain, and cold temperatures during the winter.
Bottom Line
Now that we have discussed the top 9 worst places to live in England, choosing a place to live is a highly personal decision, and what may be the worst place for one person may be desirable for another. Some factors that make a place undesirable include high crime rates, job opportunities, cost of living, traffic congestion, and lack of diversity.
It is important to remember that these are just a few factors to consider when evaluating a location. Many other factors, such as access to healthcare, education, and community amenities, can significantly determine the quality of life in a particular area.
Ultimately, when deciding on a place to live, it’s essential to research, visit the location, and consider your priorities and preferences. Every location has its positives and negatives, and it’s up to you to determine which factors are most important to your lifestyle and well-being. We hope our guide has helped you identify the worst places to live in England.
Happy travels!
FAQs
Where is the best place to live in England?
England’s best places to live include London, Manchester, Reading, Southampton, Bristol, Leeds, Oxford, and Cambridge.
What is the grimmest place in the UK?
Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire is the grimmest place to live in the United Kingdom.
How many cities are in England?
There are 51 cities and 935 towns in England.
Is Scunthorpe a nice place to live?
In a survey conducted to determine the living standards in different cities, Sculthorpe ranked the fourth worst place to live in the United Kingdom.
