In 2026, the choice between living in London or commuting depends largely on your lifestyle priorities and hybrid work schedule. With London rents at historic highs, many professionals have joined the "London Exodus," moving to "donut" towns like Reading, St Albans, or Woking. Living in London offers the advantage of zero commute time, easy access to world-class nightlife, and no reliance on expensive rail season tickets (which can cost over £5,000 annually). However, commuting from the Home Counties often provides a significantly higher quality of life, including more square footage, a private garden, and better access to green spaces. For those working in the office only 2–3 days a week, commuting has become the preferred financial choice, whereas those who value the "24-hour city" energy and short walks to work still find the high cost of London living worthwhile.