Is Guildford a Good Place to Live? Full Area Report

South East / Surrey

Avg Property Price

£530,000

Avg Rent

£1,500/month

Crime Rating

Below Average

Schools (Good+)

80% Good or Outstanding

Broadband Avg

82 Mbps

Transport

Excellent

Flood Risk

Medium

Population

80K

About Guildford

Guildford is an affluent Surrey town set along the River Wey and the chalk ridge of the North Downs, with a cobbled high street, ruined castle, and excellent London commuter connections. HouseCheckup reports reveal Guildford's property market is among the strongest in Surrey, driven by top-tier schools, safety, and direct trains to London Waterloo in just thirty-five minutes. The town combines historic charm with modern amenities, and the University of Surrey adds academic vitality.

Pros of Living in Guildford

  • Excellent fast commuter trains to London Waterloo in thirty-five minutes
  • Outstanding school performance with a strong grammar school tradition
  • Low crime rates and a safe, affluent community
  • Beautiful Surrey Hills countryside on the doorstep
  • Charming cobbled high street with quality independent shops

Cons of Living in Guildford

  • Very high property prices — among the most expensive in Surrey
  • Traffic congestion on the A3 and through the one-way system
  • Flood risk near the River Wey in the town centre
  • Limited affordable housing options for first-time buyers

Frequently Asked Questions About Guildford

Guildford is widely considered one of the best places to live in Surrey. It offers outstanding schools, low crime, beautiful countryside, and excellent London commuter links. The town appeals to affluent families and professionals who want quality of life without sacrificing career access. The high cost of property is the primary barrier to entry.
Guildford's average property price is approximately £530,000. Premium areas like Merrow, Onslow Village, and the city centre can exceed £800,000. More affordable options exist in Park Barn and Bellfields, though these still command prices above the national average. Detached family homes in the best areas regularly exceed £1 million.
Guildford has below-average crime rates and is one of the safest towns in Surrey. All residential areas are considered safe, with very low rates of violent crime. The town centre is pleasant and well-maintained at all times. Surrey Police maintain a presence, and the community atmosphere contributes to a genuine sense of security for all residents.
Around 80% of Guildford's schools are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. The town benefits from a strong grammar school tradition with the Royal Grammar School among the country's top-performing schools. Independent options include Guildford High School and Tormead. The University of Surrey adds academic prestige and educational resources to the area.
Guildford has direct trains to London Waterloo in approximately thirty-five minutes, making it an excellent commuter town. The A3 provides road connections to London and the south coast, though it can be congested. Heathrow and Gatwick airports are both accessible within forty-five minutes. Bus services cover the town and surrounding Surrey villages.

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