The introduction of hybrid working has opened up a multitude of options for workers looking to move out of London. Many former city-dwellers have discovered the benefits of a rural or coastal lifestyle. With better messaging and video call technology, many businesses are embracing hybrid working, responding to an increasing demand from workers to mix working from home with less office time.
Since the pandemic, the rate of workers moving out of London has increased. Totaljobs reported that 43% of Londonders said they would consider leaving the city if their employer offered them hybrid or flexible working.
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Cornwall is a dream destination for many, conjuring visions of romantic beaches and rugged Poldark-style cliffs. But is it a realistic option for hybrid or flexible workers from London seeking a different pace of life?
What is it like to live in Cornwall?
There are pros and cons to living in Cornwall, as there are anywhere.
On the plus side the county is home to spectacular beaches, sweeping moorland, quaint fishing villages and a rich cultural heritage. Unlike the anonymity of city life, Cornwall has a tight-knit community feel. Many small towns and villages have local events, markets, and festivals that bring people together.
Cornwall has become a hub for creative industries, tech startups, and freelancers. With improved broadband and co-working spaces in towns like Falmouth and Penzance, more people are running businesses or working remotely while enjoying coastal life.
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But there are some cons too. The lack of motorways adds to the county’s charm but also makes it a challenge to get anywhere very quickly. The narrow twisty lanes can be a nightmare for any nervous drivers, especially if you meet a tractor along the way! And winters can be harsh. The tourists have gone home and the weather keeps you hunkering down indoors.
Cost of living: Cornwall vs London
House prices: According to Rightmove the average house price in Cornwall is £349,451 (2023/2024) with detached properties selling for, on average, £491,733. Many towns and villages offer cheaper property options however, and generally speaking buying in Cornwall is significantly cheaper than in London.
- London average house price: £530,000+
- Cornwall average house price: £325,000
- Truro average house price: £350,000
- Falmouth average house price: £380,000
- Newquay average house price: £320,000
Rental costs: The Office for National Statistics lists the average monthly rent in Cornwall as £902. Padstow, Port Isaac, Fowey and Wadebridge are among the most expensive locations to buy a property according to CornwallLive. For more affordable options, Coast Magazine recommends Mevagissey, Newquay, St Just and Bude.
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Other living costs: In practically all categories, Cornwall offers cheaper living costs than London. These include transport, council tax, groceries, food and dining, and childcare costs.
Comparing commuter options between Cornwall and London
Cornwall isn’t the most well connected area of the UK. However, if you’re determined to live there as a hybrid worker and make the commute into London then you do have options available. However they’re not for the faint hearted!
- Train: Cornwall has direct train services to London Paddington via Great Western Railway (GWR), including the high-speed Intercity Express Trains.
- Key routes include:
- Truro to London Paddington – 4 hours 20 minutes
- St Austell to London Paddington – 4 hours 10 minutes
- Plymouth to London Paddington (for east Cornwall) – 3 hours 10 minutes
- Newquay to London Paddington – 5+ hours (with changes)
- Overnight train: For those seeking to maximise their time, the Night Riviera Sleeper Train provides an overnight service between Penzance and London Paddington. Departing in the evening and arriving in London early morning, this option allows passengers to rest during the journey and start the day refreshed in the city.
- Air: Another option, though not one for those with sustainability in mind, might be to fly. Eastern Airways fly daily between Newquay and London Gatwick. With fast trains from Gatwick into London Victoria you could make your commute quicker this way than by train.
- Driving: Driving the full distance to London (approximately 5–6 hours) isn’t practical for regular commuting. However, some people drive to Exeter (2 hours from central Cornwall), where faster and cheaper trains to London are available.
The upshot. Can you really live in Cornwall and commute to London?
Cornwall has many charms to recommend to those seeking an escape from the hubbub of London life. If your working pattern requires only a couple of visits a month to the office then Cornwall could well be an option for you. But if you’re heading into the office more than once or twice a week then the sheer distances involved mean you’ll likely find the journey time more of an endurance test.
The Hattie 