Why People from England Dislike Living in London

London, with its population of nearly 9 million, is a city that is both glamorous and costly. For some, the allure of living in the heart of the world's most famous city is overwhelming. However, for others, the downsides can be substantial, leading to a range of reasons why people from England may dislike living in London.

The High Cost of Living

One of the main reasons why many people from England dislike living in London is the high cost of housing. London is one of the most expensive cities in the world to buy or rent, making it difficult for many to afford a basic home. As a result, a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, leaving less money for other expenses and experiences. This can be particularly stressful for those who are not in high-paying jobs.

The Overcrowded Lifestyle

London is a bustling metropolis with busy shopping areas and tourist attractions, which can make daily life quite hectic. With constant crowds and traffic, commuting to and from various places can be extremely time-consuming. This can mean that even the simplest tasks, such as going grocery shopping or running errands, become a significant part of the day. This relentless routine can leave little time for enjoying the city's cultural offerings and attractions.

The London-Centric Attitude

Another factor that contributes to London's disfavor among some residents is the city's overwhelming focus. There is a strong feeling among some that London dominates English culture and that everything revolves around it. This is evident in the attitudes of Londoners and even those outside of the city. For example, playwright Alan Ayckbourn, who has most of his plays premiered in Scarborough, faced criticism from London critics. Additionally, the notion that being English means being from London is a point of frustration for many outside of the city. The fixation on London can lead to a sense of alienation for those who have roots in other parts of England.

Personal Experiences of Deteriorating Safety

For individuals like myself, who were born and raised in South London, like Crystal Palace FC, safety concerns have played a crucial role in why I no longer live in the city. During my childhood, the demographic was predominantly White British, but as I grew older, the area began to change dramatically. A phenomenon known as "white flight" led to socio-economic shifts, with lower-income families and those of different ethnicities moving into the neighborhood. The rise in knife crime, gang activity, and the murder rate made the area feel increasingly unsafe. As a result, my family and I moved outside of London, now living in a predominantly white British town in the East Midlands. This new location has brought with it a sense of safety and normalcy, as well as the friendly faces that are often in short supply in London.

The Impact of Multiculturalism

The meat of London's issue can be summed up in the term "multiculturalism." While many hail this as a positive aspect, it has also caused significant problems. The liberal perception of multiculturalism, often referred to as "destructive middle-class anarchism," has led to a breakdown in cultural norms and safety. The collision of different ethnicities and subcultures has sometimes led to a lack of integration and, in some cases, a rise in crime. This has made London a less welcoming place for those who are not part of its dominant culture. When I return to Thornton Heath to watch Crystal Palace, I am struck by the lack of diversity and the crime-ridden state of the area, a far cry from its former glory.

In conclusion, while London undoubtedly has its charm and cultural richness, the high cost of living, the crowded lifestyle, and the unsafe environment have driven many from England to seek alternatives. Moving to a city with a lower cost of living and the sense of safety and friendliness that comes with it can be a significant factor in personal happiness and quality of life. Whether you choose to live in London or not, it is important to balance the pros and cons based on your individual circumstances and priorities.