7 Essential Tips For Living in Dartford

Considering living in Dartford? You’re not alone!

This historic Kent town, known for its excellent schools, commuter-friendly location, and diverse housing options, has become a top destination for families, professionals, and couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London.

Whether you’re drawn by the greenery of the Kent countryside or Dartford’s close ties to the capital, this guide will provide everything you need to know before making your move.

Why Live in Dartford?

Dartford offers a fantastic mix of countryside charm and city convenience.

With its well-connected transport links to London, vibrant community, and affordable property prices, it’s no wonder that this Kent town is growing in popularity.

Whether you’re relocating for work, better schools, or simply a more relaxed pace of life, Dartford has something for everyone.

Here are some of the top reasons to live in Dartford:

• Affordable housing compared to London
• Excellent schools, including top grammar schools
• Beautiful parks and countryside walks
• Easy commute to Central London

Best Areas to Live in Dartford

Dartford boasts a range of neighbourhoods, each with its own appeal.

Whether you’re after a lively town centre or a quiet, leafy village, Dartford has a variety of options to suit different lifestyles.

• Dartford Town Centre: Ideal for those who want the convenience of town living, with access to shops, restaurants, and excellent transport links. The area is also seeing significant regeneration and investment, making it a particularly attractive choice for young professionals and first-time buyers.
• Wilmington: A quieter, family-friendly area with good schools and more spacious homes. Wilmington is popular with families seeking a balance between rural tranquillity and accessibility to the town centre.
• Hartley and Longfield: These villages on the outskirts of Dartford offer a more rural lifestyle, perfect for those looking to escape the busier areas but still remain within easy reach of London – the perfect balance of rural and urban living.
• Greenhithe and Bluewater: Known for its proximity to the famous Bluewater shopping centre, this area offers modern housing developments and excellent transport links to both the local area and the capital, making it an ideal spot for commuters to consider.

Average House Prices in Dartford

If you’re thinking of moving to Dartford, the housing market is one of its biggest attractions.

Compared to London, property in Dartford is much more affordable, offering great value for money, whether you’re looking to buy or rent.

You can expect to pay an average of £364,552 in Dartford compared to £694,713 in London.

Current average house prices by property type in Dartford are:

• Detached homes: £622,033
• Semi-detached homes: £440,244
• Terraced homes: £359,742
• Flats: £226,787

Dartford’s property prices are significantly lower than the London average, making it an excellent choice for buyers who want more space and better value for their money while maintaining proximity to the capital.

Renting in Dartford: If buying isn’t an option yet, renting in Dartford is also affordable, with the average cost of renting in the area sitting at around £1,843 per month.

This is more affordable than London, where the average rent is £2,744 for a one-bed property, but is on par with the South East average.

Cost of Living in Dartford

Living in Dartford offers a balance between affordability and convenience.

While the cost of living is lower than in London, it’s important to be aware of local expenses when budgeting for your move.

Here’s a rough guide to common everyday costs in Dartford:

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: £20
• Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: £70
• Fast food meal: £8
• Cappuccino: £3.65
• Monthly utilities (for an 85m2 flat): £256.75

While the cost of living is generally higher than in other parts of the UK, Dartford remains more affordable than London, especially when it comes to housing and transport.

Commuting from Dartford to London

One of the main draws of living in Dartford is its excellent transport links. For those commuting to London, Dartford is ideally placed.

Train links

Dartford Station is well-served by trains running to London Bridge, Charing Cross, Cannon Street, and Victoria.

The average journey to London takes around 40 minutes, making Dartford a convenient choice for city workers.

Bus routes

There are regular bus services connecting Dartford to surrounding areas, including Bluewater and Ebbsfleet International.

Road links

Dartford is situated near the M25 and A2, offering easy access to London, Kent, and Essex, and making it a prime location for both car commuters and those looking to explore the wider region.

Schools in Dartford

For families, Dartford’s schools are a major selling point.

The area is home to some of the best schools in Kent, including top grammar schools as well as highly-rated primaries.

• Primary Schools: Dartford offers several highly-rated primary schools, including The Brent Primary School, which has an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted. Other schools in the area are rated ‘Good’, making it a great location for families with young children.
• Secondary Schools: Dartford has a number of strong secondary schools, such as Dartford Grammar School and Dartford Grammar School for Girls, both rated ‘Outstanding’. These selective schools are highly competitive, attracting students from across Kent.
• Grammar Schools: The town is also known for its grammar schools, which consistently achieve excellent results. Children must meet testing requirements to attend these schools, making it a key consideration for families moving to the area.

Things to Do in Dartford

Living in Dartford means you’ll never be short of things to do.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture vulture, or just want to enjoy a night out, Dartford offers plenty of activities for all ages.

• Bluewater Shopping Centre: One of Europe’s largest shopping centres, Bluewater is just a short drive from Dartford. With over 300 stores, a cinema, and various restaurants, it’s a go-to destination for shopping and entertainment.
• Central Park: This picturesque park is the perfect place to relax, have a picnic, or take a walk through its beautiful gardens. It’s also home to the annual Dartford Festival, a free event that celebrates the local community with live music and activities.
• The Orchard Theatre: For a bit of culture, head to The Orchard Theatre, which hosts a variety of shows, from musicals and comedies to live performances.
• Darenth Country Park: If you love the outdoors, this park offers walking trails, open spaces, and scenic views of the Kent countryside.

Residents also have the added bonus of being very close to central London where there are a wealth of things to do, meaning there is never a dull moment in Dartford.

Ready to Start Living in Dartford?

Are you thinking of moving to Dartford?

Whether you want to make the most of the great education provisions or the range of affordable properties, Dartford is sure to please.

There is certainly a place to call home for you when living in Dartford.

GoodMove will make your move to Dartford an easy and stress-free process.

We take great joy in ensuring everything runs smoothly and flawlessly, helping you to settle into your new home right away.

As well as our competitively priced removals package, we can also offer extra services such as temporary or long-term storage facilities should you need them.

To find out more about how we could get your dream move to Dartford or any other location underway do not hesitate to call us on the number listed above.

Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or click on our live bot in the bottom right and a member of our customer services team will be in touch shortly.

FAQs

What is the cost of living in Dartford compared to London?

Dartford generally has a lower cost of living compared to London, making it an economical choice for many.

Are there any famous landmarks in Dartford?

Yes, Dartford has several historical landmarks, including the Dartford War Memorial and the Holy Trinity Church.

Is Dartford a good place for families?

Absolutely! With excellent schools, parks, and a strong community vibe, Dartford is ideal for families.

How is the nightlife in Dartford?

Dartford offers a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and entertainment venues, ensuring a vibrant nightlife.

What are the main industries in Dartford?

Dartford thrives in industries like retail, IT, manufacturing, and healthcare, among others.