Young people are increasingly turning to alternative forms of housing – including living on narrowboats – as London’s rental costs continue to climb to an average of £2,200 per month.
An estimated 15,000 people are believed to live on narrowboats across London today. While some are drawn to the freedom, flexibility and sense of community, others are attracted by the lower cost of living.
London-based student Annie Spencer, who has lived on a narrowboat for the past two and a half years, says the lower costs gave her the financial freedom to leave a job she was unhappy in.
Annie said: “Because we live on a boat, our costs are much lower, so I was able to hand in my notice. I had a really bad meeting and handed in my notice the next week. That’s just not something I would have been able to do if I was renting.”
As well as reducing her living costs, Annie says the lifestyle has helped her feel more connected to nature while living in one of the world’s busiest cities. She offers an insight into a growing alternative to traditional renting, while acknowledging that life on the water is not for everyone:
Featured image credit: Christopher More via Pexels
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