The Demographics of Eltham’s Population

Once a favourite destination for Tudor kings, Eltham is now a popular residential area known for its rich history, green spaces, and convenient transport links to central London. If you are considering investing in a buy-to-let property in Eltham, it is important to understand the town’s population size, demographics, employment, education level, rental market, and crime rate. This blog post will provide an overview of these key factors to help you make an informed decision.

Population Size and Growth

As of mid-2020, Eltham’s population was estimated to be around 37,700. This represents a moderate increase from the previous year, and a steady growth trend over the past decade. Compared to the average London borough, Eltham’s population growth rate is slightly lower, indicating a more stable and sustainable local community.

Age of the Population

Eltham has a diverse population in terms of age. The majority of residents are aged between 25 and 64, which is similar to the UK average. However, Eltham has a higher proportion of older residents aged 65 and over, making up nearly a quarter of the population. This could be due to the town’s popularity among retirees and empty nesters who are looking for a peaceful and green environment to enjoy their golden years.

Employment Rate

The employment rate in Eltham is slightly higher than the UK average, with around 78% of the working-age population in employment. This indicates a strong local economy and a demand for labour in various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and education. Moreover, Eltham’s proximity to central London and good transport links make it an attractive location for professionals who work in the city but prefer to live in a more suburban and affordable area.

Education Level 

Eltham has a relatively high proportion of residents with a degree or higher education level, with around 42% of the population aged 16 to 74 holding a level 4 qualification or above. This is slightly above the UK average and reflects the town’s access to quality education and training opportunities. Additionally, Eltham is home to a significant number of students, with nearly 6,000 enrolled in local primary and secondary schools. There are also several higher education institutions within a short distance, including the University of Greenwich and Goldsmiths, University of London.

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Volume of Renters vs Homeowners

The rental market in Eltham is quite competitive, with around 38% of households rented from private landlords or housing associations. This is slightly lower than the UK average and reflects the town’s popularity among young professionals, students, and families who prefer the flexibility and convenience of renting. However, Eltham also has a stable and affordable housing market, with a good selection of properties for sale at various price points. This makes it a viable location for both homeowners and landlords looking to invest in property.

Crime Rate

Eltham has a relatively low crime rate compared to the UK average, with a total of 3,314 reported crimes in the past year. This includes a mix of offences, such as theft, burglary, and violent crime. However, Eltham has seen a slight increase in crime rates over the past few years, particularly in the areas of antisocial behaviour and drug-related crimes. Nevertheless, the town has a strong police presence and community support, which helps to maintain a safe and secure living environment.

In conclusion, Eltham is a diverse and stable community with a moderate population growth rate and a strong local economy. The town’s proximity to central London and good transport links make it an attractive location for professionals and students, while its peaceful and green environment appeals to retirees and families.

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