Living in Luton

Looking for somewhere that offers great value, convenient transport links and a mix of town and countryside living? Luton could be the right fit. 

Where is Luton? 

Our Luton area guide starts with a look at its location. Bedfordshire’s most populated town is situated along the River Lea and on the northern edge of the Chilterns National Landscape – a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

As well as providing access to the surrounding scenic countryside, known for its rolling hills and historic walking trails, Luton is just 30 miles north of London and offers excellent connectivity. Direct train services to the capital and swift access to the M1 motorway make it a practical base for commuters.  

Luton also forms part of the wider Luton/Dunstable conurbation – one of the largest urban areas in the Southeast outside London – which has become renowned as a major manufacturing and economic hub.  

Is Luton a nice place to live? 

Luton offers a mix of affordability, accessibility and community spirit. 

Recent and ongoing investments have led to new housing developments, upgraded public spaces and improved infrastructure, reflecting efforts to accommodate Luton’s growing population. The town offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, leisure facilities and local green spaces. 

From a busy town centre to quieter residential pockets, Luton also caters to a variety of lifestyles. The combination of good transport links and surrounding rural landscape offer the convenience of urban living while still being connected to nature. The town is also home to a diverse population, reflected in its food, culture and events. 

What is Luton famous for? 

Luton’s identity is shaped by both its industrial heritage and its modern-day role as a regional hub. Historically, the town was renowned for its hat-making industry – a trade that dates to the 17th century and famously inspired the nickname of its football team, The Hatters. 

Today, Luton is perhaps best known for London Luton Airport. Opened in 1938, the airport now serves over 16 million passengers annually, acting as a key gateway for international travel across Southeast England. Its location and transport links have also helped it grow into a thriving economic centre. The town has seen strong growth in business start-ups, with many local entrepreneurs. 

Things to do in Luton 

Luton has plenty to offer when it comes to leisure and entertainment. Families can explore Stockwood Park Discovery Centre, enjoy horse riding at local stables, or spend an afternoon at the town’s trampoline park. The state-of-the-art sports village, complete with a 50-metre pool and gym facilities, caters to both casual users and serious athletes. 

Shopping is centred around Luton Point, a modern retail destination with over 100 stores, cafés and restaurants. For those seeking more adrenaline-fuelled activities, the Land Rover Experience provides off-road driving adventures, while Maverix Snow offers indoor snow sports including skiing and snowboarding.  

Luton also a range of cultural venues and events. With over 225,000 residents, it’s home to a diverse population that is celebrated through the Luton International Carnival – the largest one-day carnival in Europe. The Culture Trust Luton also manages several venues, including Wardown House Museum and Gallery, which hosts exhibitions, workshops and seasonal events. 

What is the transport like in Luton? 

Luton is a well-connected town with multiple transport options for commuters and local and international travellers alike.

By rail, the town is served by three stations – Luton, Luton Airport Parkway and Leagrave – with direct trains to London St Pancras taking around 25 minutes. Regular services also link Luton to nearby towns and cities across Bedfordshire and beyond. 

Road connections are equally strong. The M1 motorway runs just west of the town, providing fast access to London, Milton Keynes and the Midlands. The A6 and A505 offer convenient routes to Bedford and London Luton Airport, respectively. 

For international travel, London Luton Airport is right on the doorstep. One of the UK’s busiest airports, it serves over 130 destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Most parts of town are less than 10 minutes away by car or public transport, while Heathrow is around 35 minutes away via the M1 and M25. 

Schools in Luton 

Luton offers a broad selection of primary and secondary schools, many of which have been rated either ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

For higher education, Luton is home to the University of Bedfordshire. Its central campus offers well over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate courses, attracting students from across the UK and beyond. 

What are the average property prices in Luton? 

The average house price in Luton is £320,744, up 2% on the 2022 peak of £313,588.

Semi-detached homes sell for £339,641, terraced properties for £275,230, and detached homes for £464,656 on average. By comparison, the average selling prices of flats and terrace properties in London are £541,760 and £745,720 respectively.

FAQs 

• How far is Luton from London? 
  About 30 miles – around 25 minutes by train or an hour by car. 
  
• Is Luton good for families? 
  Luton offers a variety of schools, parks and activities that may appeal to families. 
  
• Is Luton affordable? 
  Luton typically has lower property prices than London and nearby towns. 
  
• Is Luton good for students? 
  Luton is home to the University of Bedfordshire and Barnfield College, with significant student accommodation, transport links and a diverse population. 
  
• What is the nightlife like in Luton? 
  Luton has a mix of historic pubs, cocktail bars, live music venues and late-night clubs.