Where Do Most Somalis Live in London?

By Anna Duncan

London is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and Somalis are one of the many communities that call this city their home. According to the 2011 UK Census, there are over 100,000 Somalis living in the UK, with a significant proportion residing in London. In this article, we will explore where most Somalis live in London and why.

Where do most Somalis live in London?

The Somali community is spread across different boroughs of London. However, there are a few areas where the majority of Somalis reside. These areas include:

Tower Hamlets

Tower Hamlets is home to the largest Somali community in London. According to the Tower Hamlets Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), there were around 20,000 Somali residents in the borough in 2019. The majority of them live in Whitechapel, Stepney Green, and Bethnal Green.

Brent

Brent has the second-largest Somali community in London. The 2011 census recorded that there were over 6,500 Somalis living in Brent. Most of them live around Harlesden and Kilburn.

Camden

Camden is another borough with a significant Somali population. According to Camden Council’s website, there were over 4,000 Somali residents in Camden as of 2020. They mostly live around Camden Town and Kentish Town.

Why do most Somalis live in these areas?

There are several reasons why these areas have become popular among Somalis:

  • Social networks: Many Somalis have family or friends already living in these areas who can offer support and guidance when settling into a new country.
  • Cultural amenities: These areas have mosques, halal shops, and other cultural amenities that cater to the needs of the Somali community.
  • Transport links: These areas have good transport links, making it easy for Somalis to travel around London and access job opportunities.
  • Affordability: The cost of living in these areas is relatively affordable compared to other parts of London, which is important for those who are new to the city and on a tight budget.

In conclusion

London is home to a vibrant Somali community, with most residing in Tower Hamlets, Brent, and Camden. These areas offer social networks, cultural amenities, good transport links, and affordability – all factors that make them attractive places for Somalis to call home.