Southall, located in West London within the London Borough of Ealing, is a vibrant, multicultural area known for its bustling markets, diverse food scene, and excellent transport links. Often referred to as “Little India” due to its large South Asian community, Southall is a melting pot of cultures, making it a lively and unique place to live. With its strong community spirit, ongoing regeneration projects, and affordable housing options, Southall is becoming an increasingly popular location for families, young professionals, and first-time buyers.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about living in Southall, from housing options and transport links to local amenities, schools, and entertainment.
Location
Southall is situated in West London, bordering Ealing, Hanwell, Hayes, and Greenford. The area is well-connected to both Central London and Heathrow Airport, making it an ideal location for commuters and frequent travellers. Southall’s iconic Broadway is the commercial heart of the area, with shops, markets, and restaurants reflecting the area’s vibrant cultural mix.
Population
As of 2024, Southall has a population of approximately 70,000 people. The area is well-known for its large South Asian community, contributing to its unique character and lively atmosphere. Southall’s affordability and diverse housing options make it an attractive destination for families, professionals, and those seeking a multicultural neighbourhood with a strong sense of community.
Economy
Southall’s economy is driven by its thriving retail and hospitality sectors, supported by the area’s busy markets and high street businesses. Southall Broadway is a major shopping destination, offering a wide range of independent shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. The area is also benefiting from ongoing regeneration projects, with new housing developments, retail spaces, and leisure facilities bringing further investment. Southall’s proximity to Heathrow Airport supports employment in logistics, transport, and hospitality.
Best Areas to Live in Southall
Southall offers a range of housing options, from traditional Victorian terraces and 1930s semi-detached homes to modern flats in new developments. Whether you’re looking for affordable family homes or contemporary apartments, Southall provides a variety of choices to suit different lifestyles.
1. Southall Green
Ideal for: Families and First-Time Buyers
Southall Green is a popular residential area, known for its large, period homes and proximity to Southall Park. The area is particularly attractive to families and first-time buyers due to its affordability and access to green spaces. Southall Green offers a mix of Victorian and 1930s semi-detached houses with gardens, providing plenty of space for growing families.
2. Southall Waterside
Ideal for: Young Professionals and Investors
Southall Waterside is one of the area’s most exciting regeneration projects, transforming former industrial land into a new residential and commercial hub. The development features modern apartments, retail spaces, and leisure facilities, making it an attractive option for young professionals and investors. The area offers contemporary riverside living with easy access to Southall Station and Heathrow Airport.
3. The Broadway
Ideal for: Professionals and Shoppers
Southall Broadway is the bustling commercial heart of the area, offering a lively environment with shops, markets, and restaurants. While The Broadway itself is primarily a shopping district, the surrounding streets offer a mix of 1930s terraced houses and flats, making it a convenient location for professionals who want to be close to the area’s amenities and transport links.
4. Norwood Green
Ideal for: Families and Nature Lovers
Norwood Green, located just to the south of Southall, offers a more peaceful, suburban environment with tree-lined streets and spacious family homes. The area is popular with families due to its proximity to local schools and Norwood Green Park. Housing in Norwood Green consists mainly of large semi-detached and detached homes, offering a tranquil lifestyle within easy reach of Southall’s vibrant town centre.