New property search data for 2025 has revealed a surprising frontrunner among London home hunters. The quiet, leafy suburb of Wimbledon in South West London, internationally famous for its tennis championships, has been crowned the most searched-for location for buyers across the capital.
Buyers Seek Leafy Suburbs, Renters Target Commuter Hubs
According to the latest figures from property portal Rightmove, Wimbledon claimed the number one spot for buyer searches within London in 2025. It was followed by a strong showing from West London, with Fulham taking second place, Chiswick in third, and Chelsea in fifth. The only area to break the west's dominance was Hampstead in North London, which secured fourth position.
A distinctly different trend emerged for those looking to rent. The top search location for renters was Canary Wharf, highlighting a continued high demand for homes near major employment centres with excellent transport links. Clapham, Fulham, and Battersea made up the next three spots, with Wimbledon also appearing on the renters' list in fifth place.
What Makes Wimbledon So Desirable?
While its global sporting reputation precedes it, local attributes are driving its popularity. The area was hailed by The Times as one of the best places to live in 2024, praised for its bucolic charm and village atmosphere. Wimbledon Village, home to celebrities like Simon Cowell and Ant McPartlin, boasts a protected green common and a thriving hub of community activities.
The district is also celebrated for its cluster of independent shops, bars, and restaurants. Transport connections are a major draw: Wimbledon station offers swift services to Waterloo in 19 minutes and Earl's Court in 18. It is also well-connected by several bus routes and is close to major road links like the A3 and A24, providing easy access to Surrey, the M25, and airports.
Market Prices and the Wider London Picture
Rightmove states that the average property price in Wimbledon is currently £853,525. This marks a six per cent decrease from its peak of £908,848 in 2022. Over the last year, the majority of sales were flats, which sold for an average of £480,170, while terraced properties typically achieved £955,733.
Other areas in the top five were noted for their unique appeals. Property agent CBRE described second-placed Fulham as a "quiet and relaxing place to live" that is close to central London and home to two professional football clubs. Chiswick, in third, was recognised for its vibrant cultural scene and historic landmarks, with average property prices of £745,095.
The data underscores a clear divide in London's 2025 property search trends: buyers are prioritising the green space and village feel of established suburbs, while renters are focusing sharply on connectivity and proximity to key business districts.
