West London is often associated with wealth, luxury and glamour. With its opulent houses, high-end boutiques and exclusive restaurants, it’s no wonder why people perceive West London as a rich area.
However, is this perception accurate? Let’s delve deeper into whether West London is indeed rich or not.
What Constitutes ‘Rich’?
To determine whether an area is wealthy or not, we need to consider several factors. These include:
- House prices
- Income levels
- Standard of living
- Economic growth
By considering these factors, we can get a better understanding of whether West London is truly a prosperous area or not.
House Prices in West London
One of the most significant indicators of wealth in an area is the cost of housing. In West London, house prices are some of the highest in the UK.
As per data from Zoopla, the average house price in West London was around £1.4 million (as of July 2021). This figure puts it significantly above the national average and makes it one of the most expensive places to live in the UK.
Income Levels in West London
Another key factor that determines whether an area is wealthy or not is income levels. According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), as of 2020, the median weekly earnings for full-time workers in London was £692. This figure puts it ahead of other regions in England such as North East (£557) and Wales (£573).
However, this doesn’t necessarily paint a complete picture when it comes to West London specifically. While there are undoubtedly high earners within this region due to its proximity to central London and affluent neighborhoods such as Kensington and Chelsea – there are also areas with lower-income levels.
Standard of Living
The standard of living in West London is generally considered high due to the abundance of amenities and services available. From high-end shopping destinations like Harrods and Selfridges to Michelin-starred restaurants like The Ledbury and La Trompette, West London offers a wide range of luxury experiences. Additionally, the region has several green spaces such as Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, making it an ideal place for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Economic Growth in West London
Finally, let’s consider economic growth. According to data from the Greater London Authority (GLA), the Gross Value Added (GVA) per capita in West London was £47,000 as of 2019/2020. This figure indicates that the region is indeed prosperous and contributes significantly to London’s economy.
Conclusion
So, is West London rich? Based on the factors we’ve considered, it’s safe to say that some areas within West London are undeniably affluent.
However, there are also pockets within this region that have lower income levels. Nevertheless, with its high house prices, standard of living and economic growth – it’s clear that West London is a prosperous area overall.
Sources:
- Zoopla – https://www.zoopla.co.uk/house-prices/london/west-london/
- ONS – https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/earningsandworkinghours/bulletins/annualsurveyofhoursandearnings/2020provisionaland2019revisedresults#median-gross-weekly-earnings-for-full-time-employees-by-region-and-country-of-the-united-kingdom
- GLA – https://data.london.uk/dataset/gross-value-added-gva-per-head-by-borough/resource/4f3c92a8-85c6-44cb-a057-df1e77e0d4f6