7 Great Reasons to Start Living in Gillingham

Thinking of starting a new chapter and considering living in Gillingham?

This thriving Medway town in Kent has quietly become a hotspot for homebuyers, families, commuters, and students alike.

Sitting in a particularly attractive location in the county of Kent, Gillingham offers a mix of affordable homes, top-rated schools, and surprisingly easy links into London, ticking a lot of boxes.

Whether you’re relocating from the capital or further afield, moving can feel overwhelming.

But when you know what’s waiting for you on the other side, especially in a place like Gillingham, it all starts to feel a little more exciting.

Let’s dive into seven solid reasons why people are packing up and calling Gillingham home.

1.  Brilliant Transport Links for London Commuters

One of Gillingham’s biggest selling points is how well connected it is, especially if you work in the city but don’t want to live there.

Trains from Gillingham station get you to London St Pancras in under an hour, thanks to Southeastern’s high-speed services. Other options include London Victoria and Cannon Street.

Add in nearby stations like Strood, Rochester, and Chatham, plus regular buses throughout the Medway towns, and you’ve got serious commuting convenience.

For more on Kent’s rail routes, check out Southeastern Railway.

2. Property Prices That Won’t Break the Bank

While many Kent towns have seen house prices soar, Gillingham still offers relatively affordable options, making it ideal for first-time buyers and growing families.

According to Rightmove, the average home price is around £326,000, with terraced homes averaging about £284,000.

You’ll find everything from Victorian terraces to modern riverside flats at the Victory Pier development.

Areas like Darland, Brompton, and Hempstead are particularly popular.

Whether you’re buying to live or invest, you’ll get more square footage for your money compared to neighbouring commuter towns, particularly London!

3. Cost of Living: Affordable, Especially After London

As the cost of living continues to rise, most of us feel the pinch on a daily basis.

Gillingham, however, will feel like a financial sigh of relief, even more so for those who have experienced the spiralling cost of living in London.

There are plenty of budget supermarkets (like Lidl, Aldi, and Asda), as well as local shops and affordable eateries dotted throughout town.

Utilities, rent, and leisure costs tend to be lower than in the capital, and with parks, nature trails, and free museums, your weekends don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Need to stretch your money further? Explore deals and discounts via Visit Medway, they have some great ideas for stretching your pound when it comes to entertainment.

4. Education Options That Make the Grade

Families moving to Gillingham will be pleased with the range of schools on offer, many of which are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

For primaries, Bredhurst C of E Primary School stands out with its “Outstanding” Ofsted rating. On the secondary front, Rainham Mark Grammar School and Bradfields Academy are top-tier choices.

The town also boasts MidKent College, offering vocational and higher education courses to over 8,500 students.

Of course, with over 40 universities in London alone, there is plenty of higher education choices nearby.

For more on local school ratings and catchment areas, head over to Ofsted’s official site.

5. So Much to See and Do Right on Your Doorstep

Boredom isn’t a thing in Gillingham.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate Capstone Farm Country Park, a 114-hectare green haven with woodlands, lakes, and walking trails in the Kent Downs AONB.

Thrill-seekers? Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, where Lewis Hamilton once raced, is just 10 minutes away.

Fancy something to do indoors. Try Planet Ice Gillingham, where kids and adults can skate year-round.

Culture vultures can’t miss the Royal Engineers Museum, home to over 25 Victoria Crosses and historical military memorabilia.

With so much to see do and experience in this great town, the only downside is what to do first!

6. A Town That’s Regenerating and Evolving

Gillingham is undergoing an exciting transformation, which will only enhance what the town already offers its residents.

The Medway Council’s regeneration plans focus on transforming the town into a creative and economic hub, investing in new housing, enhancing public spaces, and modernising infrastructure.

Projects like the Chatham Maritime development and the rise of Victory Pier are drawing in young professionals, students, and investors looking for future growth.

It’s a town that’s definitely on the up. Check out local development updates via Medway Council.

7. A Friendly, Diverse Community That Feels Like Home

Last but not least, Gillingham is more than just good stats and commuter perks; it’s a welcoming place to live.

Thanks to its university population and growing number of families and professionals, the town enjoys a multicultural, community-focused vibe.

Local events, farmers’ markets, and community centres mean there’s always something happening, and newcomers are made to feel right at home.

Whether you’re looking for lively pubs, peaceful parks, or strong local networks, Gillingham offers it all in a down-to-earth package that is so appealing.

Ready to Make Gillingham Your Next Move?

If Gillingham sounds like the right fit for you, GoodMove is here to make your relocation smooth, simple, and stress-free.

With years of experience helping people move across Kent, the wider UK and abroad, we offer trusted removals services tailored specifically to your needs and requirements.

From full packing support to secure storage solutions, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Get your free moving quote now or give our friendly team a call to chat about your move to Gillingham.

Make it a GoodMove!!