- Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire
- 11°C · Partly Cloudy
- Mon 30 Mar · 14:52
- info@hemelhempstead.info
Your Move
Everything you need to know about moving to Hemel Hempstead — from finding the right neighbourhood to setting up your new home.
Thinking about relocating to Hemel Hempstead? You’re not alone. Thousands of families, professionals, and first-time buyers choose to move to this thriving Hertfordshire town every year. With fast train links to London Euston in under 30 minutes, affordable property prices compared to neighbouring towns like St Albans and Berkhamsted, and an abundance of green spaces including the Ashridge Estate and Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead offers the ideal balance between town and countryside living.
The town is undergoing significant regeneration, with new housing developments, improved town centre amenities, and growing employment opportunities from major employers including Amazon, Sopra Steria, and the Maylands Business Park. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighbourhood with outstanding schools, a vibrant social scene, or simply excellent value for money on the property market, this guide covers everything you need to plan a smooth and successful move to Hemel Hempstead.
Getting Started
Explore areas like Boxmoor, Apsley, Leverstock Green and Adeyfield. Each has its own character, price range and amenities.
If you have children, research OFSTED ratings and catchment distances — this often determines the best area to buy or rent.
Contact local estate agents or browse listings. Consider proximity to the station if you commute to London.
Once you've moved, register for council tax with Dacorum Borough Council and set up your electoral roll entry.
Arrange gas, electric, water and broadband. Most providers cover the HP1–HP3 postcode areas without issue.
Find your nearest GP surgery and register as a new patient — most accept online registration via the NHS website.
Budgeting
Hemel Hempstead offers excellent value compared to London while remaining well-connected. Here’s a quick overview of typical costs.
Detached, semi, terrace & flats
Varies by area
Dacorum Borough Council
Season ticket to London Euston
Town centre average
XC, PureGym, local options
Insider Knowledge
Spend a weekend exploring. Walk the high street, visit the parks, and check commute times at rush hour.
Apsley and the town centre are seeing significant regeneration — great value compared to Boxmoor or Leverstock Green.
Facebook groups like 'Hemel Hempstead Community' and Nextdoor are brilliant for insider tips and recommendations.
Some areas require resident parking permits. Check with Dacorum Borough Council before you move.
Directory
Key numbers and services you’ll need when settling into your new home.
Council tax, planning, waste collection
01442 228000
Water supply for the Hemel area
0345 357 2407
Electricity distribution network
0800 31 63 105
Broadband & phone line setup
0800 800 150
Free advice on benefits, housing & debt
0800 144 8848
Redirect mail to your new address
royalmail.com
Common questions from people thinking about moving to Hemel Hempstead.
Yes — Hemel Hempstead consistently ranks as one of the best-value commuter towns in Hertfordshire. It offers affordable housing, excellent transport links to London (under 30 minutes by train), good schools, extensive green spaces, and a growing range of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The town is also undergoing significant regeneration, making it an attractive long-term investment.
Popular residential areas include Boxmoor (period homes, village feel, close to the station), Leverstock Green (family-friendly, good schools, semi-rural), Apsley (up-and-coming, canal-side living, new builds), and Adeyfield (affordable, well-connected). Each neighbourhood has its own character and price range, so it’s worth visiting a few before deciding.
As of 2024/25, the average house price in Hemel Hempstead is approximately £385,000. However, prices vary significantly by area and property type — flats start from around £220,000, while detached family homes can exceed £550,000. Compared to nearby St Albans (average £650,000+), Hemel offers considerably better value.
Direct trains from Hemel Hempstead station to London Euston take approximately 25–30 minutes, with frequent services throughout the day. A monthly season ticket costs around £350. By car, the M1 provides access to North London and the M25 orbital motorway. Many residents now work hybrid patterns, commuting just two or three days per week.
Yes, Hemel Hempstead has a strong selection of primary and secondary schools, many rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. Popular choices include Boxmoor Primary, Leverstock Green Primary, The Hemel Hempstead School, and Adeyfield Academy. There are also faith schools and grammar school options in nearby towns.
When moving to Hemel Hempstead, you’ll need to set up council tax with Dacorum Borough Council, arrange gas and electricity (any provider), water (Affinity Water covers the area), and broadband. You should also register with a local GP surgery, update your electoral roll entry, and set up a Royal Mail redirect from your old address.
The rental market in Hemel Hempstead is competitive but more affordable than many Hertfordshire towns. A two-bedroom flat typically rents for around £1,100–£1,300 per month, while a three-bedroom house ranges from £1,400–£1,700. Demand is strong due to the town’s commuter appeal, so it’s advisable to act quickly when you find a suitable property.
Hemel Hempstead is generally considered a safe place to live. Like any town, crime levels vary by area, but overall rates are in line with or below the Hertfordshire average. Neighbourhoods like Boxmoor, Leverstock Green, and Nash Mills are particularly well-regarded for their low crime rates and community feel.
Are you an estate agent or removal company serving Hemel Hempstead? Get your brand in front of people actively planning their move.