Thinking of moving to Essex? You’re not alone. With its balance of countryside charm, commuter convenience, and vibrant town life, Essex has become one of the UK’s most desirable counties for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Whether you’re after coastal views, top schools, or a quick train to London, Essex has a town to match. In this guide, we explore 10 of the best places to live in Essex as recommended by locals and those who’ve recently made the move.
And if you’re looking for something similar just across the border, check out this guide on moving to Hertfordshire for equally appealing options.
1. Chelmsford – Great for Commuting and City Life
Chelmsford offers the best of both worlds: a buzzing city centre with direct trains to London Liverpool Street in under 35 minutes. Its excellent schools, parks, shopping, and nightlife make it popular with professionals and families alike. You’ll find a mix of modern flats, period homes, and quiet suburban neighbourhoods. Several schools in Chelmsford are also rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, making it the top choice in terms of education.
2. Colchester – History, Family Living, and Fast Growth
As Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester combines heritage with modern development. Families are drawn here for its great schools, green spaces, and growing community vibe. Property is still affordable compared to the south-west of Essex, and new developments are making it increasingly attractive for first-time buyers.
3. Brentwood – A Prime Spot for London Commuters
Located on the Elizabeth Line and with quick access to the M25, Brentwood is a hotspot for those working in the capital. It’s leafy, upmarket, and packed with high-rated schools. House prices are higher than average, but many find the location and lifestyle well worth the investment.
4. Leigh-on-Sea – Cool Coastal Living
Regularly voted one of the happiest places to live in the UK, Leigh-on-Sea blends seaside charm with a creative, independent spirit. You’ll find artisan coffee shops, art galleries, and a real community buzz, all just an hour from London. Perfect for those wanting beach walks without leaving the South East.
5. Braintree – Affordable and Up-and-Coming
Braintree is ideal for families and professionals looking for more space and value. With good schools, expanding amenities, and strong transport links (including Freeport shopping village), it’s growing in popularity. Trains to London take about an hour, and the A120 makes it well-connected by road too.
6. Saffron Walden – Historic and Well-Regarded
Saffron Walden is one of Essex’s hidden gems. With medieval streets, independent shops, and a strong community feel, it’s ideal for those seeking a slower pace without being isolated. It’s also in easy reach of Cambridge, making it a good option for those who split work between cities.
7. Maldon – Riverside Views and Heritage Charm
Known for its salt marshes, sailing clubs, and traditional high street, Maldon is a picturesque riverside town with a proud heritage. It’s a great fit for families and retirees who want peaceful surroundings and a strong sense of place. Property here is varied, from quaint cottages to modern homes near the quay.
8. Epping – Gateway to the Capital with a Countryside Feel
Epping sits on the edge of Epping Forest and is the last stop on the Central Line. It offers a rare combination: green space, village atmosphere, and a direct Tube route into London. This makes it ideal for those who want the flexibility of city life with weekend woodland escapes.
9. South Woodham Ferrers – Small Town, Big Community
This riverside town is often overlooked, but locals love it for its family-friendly vibe, easy access to Chelmsford, and strong local schools. House prices are more manageable here than in nearby hotspots, making it a smart choice for those wanting value without sacrificing amenities.
10. Witham – Quiet Value and Solid Transport Links
Witham offers excellent rail connections to London Liverpool Street in around 45 minutes, making it a solid commuter option. It’s a quieter alternative to Chelmsford or Colchester, with good primary schools, community parks, and growing amenities, all at a more affordable price point. A great fit for first-time buyers or downsizing couples looking for a relaxed pace.
How We Chose These Towns
Choosing where to live is personal, but there are patterns we’ve seen time and again. As a local removals company, we’ve helped hundreds of people move into and around Essex, and we’ve learned what matters most.
This list is based on:
- Commuter convenience (especially into London)
- Family appeal (school quality, parks, community feel)
- Lifestyle options (whether you want coast, countryside or town)
- Value for money (property prices and overall affordability)
- Local reputation (what actual residents say about the area)
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or planning to downsize, these towns consistently come up as top choices for people moving into Essex.
Town Comparison Table
According to Rightmove, property prices in Essex vary significantly by town, with commuter hotspots like Brentwood commanding a premium.
Here’s a quick look at how some of Essex’s best towns stack up against each other:
| Town | Commute to London | Average House Price | School Quality | Lifestyle Vibe |
| Chelmsford | ~35 mins (train) | £450k–£550k | Excellent | City + Suburb |
| Colchester | ~50 mins (train) | £300k–£400k | Very Good | Historic + Family-Oriented |
| Brentwood | ~40 mins (Elizabeth Line) | £500k+ | Excellent | Leafy + Upmarket |
| Leigh-on-Sea | ~60 mins (train) | £450k–£550k | Good | Coastal + Creative |
| Braintree | ~60 mins (train) | £325k–£400k | Good | Affordable + Growing |
| Saffron Walden | ~60 mins (via Audley End) | £475k–£550k | Excellent | Historic + Charming |
| Maldon | No direct train (45–60 mins to Chelmsford) | £325k–£425k | Good | Riverside + Community-Focused |
| Epping | 40–45 mins (Central Line) | £500k–£600k | Very Good | Countryside + Commuter |
| South Woodham Ferrers | ~50 mins (via Wickford) | £300k–£375k | Good | Family-Friendly + Underrated |
| Witham | ~45 mins (train) | £325k–£400k | Good | Quiet + Well-Connected |
Prices are estimates based on 2024/2025 market trends and will vary by neighbourhood.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for coast, countryside, or commuter convenience, Essex has a town to suit every lifestyle. From bustling Chelmsford to peaceful Maldon, the county is full of vibrant communities and smart property choices.
Need a Hand With Your Move?
Whether you’re heading to a commuter town like Chelmsford or a quieter spot like Maldon, choosing the right moving company can make all the difference. Direct Moves offers trusted removals in Essex and Hertfordshire, with a reputation for care, reliability, and local knowledge across the region.
