What Makes a Good Neighbourhood? 10 Data Points to Check

The 10 most important data points to evaluate when choosing a neighbourhood to live in. Beyond gut feeling to evidence-based decisions.

Moving beyond gut feeling

A neighbourhood might feel nice on a sunny Saturday afternoon, but data tells a more complete story. Research shows that the factors most correlated with resident satisfaction are: low crime, good schools, green space, transport access, and a sense of community. Check Local compiles data on all of these, but here are the 10 specific metrics to focus on.

1. Crime rate per 1,000 residents

The single most important safety metric. Compare to the national average of approximately 80 per 1,000. Below 60 is very low crime, 60-80 is below average, 80-110 is average, and above 110 is above average. Pay particular attention to burglary and vehicle crime rates, as these affect daily life most directly.

2. School Ofsted ratings within 1 mile

Count the number of Good or Outstanding schools within walking distance. Even without children, this drives property values. A neighbourhood with three or more Good/Outstanding primaries within a mile is significantly more desirable. Check recent inspection dates — anything older than 5 years may not reflect current quality.

3. Median property price trend (5 years)

Look for consistent, positive growth. An area with steady 3-5% annual growth over five years is a strong signal of sustained demand. Sudden spikes might indicate a bubble, while stagnation could signal underlying problems. Compare to the regional average to assess relative performance.

4. Transport connectivity score

How easily can you reach your workplace, family, and amenities? Count the number of stations and bus stops within walking distance, check service frequency, and map journey times to key destinations. In London, TfL's Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) provides a standardised score from 1 (worst) to 6b (best).

5. Green space per resident

Access to parks and green space is consistently linked to wellbeing and mental health. The Fields in Trust standard recommends 2.4 hectares per 1,000 population. Check for parks, commons, nature reserves, and allotments within walking distance. Google Maps satellite view is a quick way to assess greenery.

6-10. Additional metrics

Six: GP registration rates — high patient-to-GP ratios mean harder access to healthcare. Seven: Broadband speed — essential for remote workers; check Ofcom's broadband checker. Eight: Air quality — DEFRA provides postcode-level NO2 and PM2.5 data. Nine: Flood risk — check the Environment Agency's flood maps. Ten: Deprivation index (IMD) — the government's composite measure of multiple deprivation factors across income, employment, education, health, crime, housing, and environment.