This publication presents an in-depth examination of what makes all types of London real estate so investable globally. It identifies and examines some of the key components driving both occupier and investor demand in London: economy, fame, education, tourism, governance, built environment, retail activity, home buying, and investability. The sheer diversity of all the factors, which help make London such a successful city, have led us to dub it the ‘polymath city’ (see Working Well).

Mythbusters

It has been particularly gratifying to analyse and write about the density of London in this issue, as well as all the forces and factors at work to make London THE premier world city, alongside New York. Gratifying because the results of our analysis may well surprise some people and even debunk a few myths.

In our findings on, density, prominence and success, we discovered that, despite lacking some super-dense core central neighbourhoods found in a few other world cities, London has above average population densities at the metro area level.

Challenges

In the run-up to the mayoral elections next year, we compare the governance of London with other world cities. It would seem that having a recognisable leader and figurehead in the form of city Mayor is a prerequisite for world cities and, like London’s, most global city mayors are publicly elected. London’s new mayor will face many of the same challenges that face other top global cities that have accommodated large and growing populations over recent years.

This document examines many of London’s success factors and what makes the city so globally popular, investable and successful. Understanding this and protecting what works for London while rectifying issues like pollution, transport, housing supply and affordability will keep any mayor busy for many years to come.