Ebbsfleet Garden City is one of the UK’s most ambitious new developments – a purpose-built, modern community on the fast train line to London, with thousands of homes, green space, and infrastructure designed for the future.
But what’s it actually like day to day? And if you’re looking at renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City, is it a smart move?
This guide takes a closer look – covering local lifestyle, commuting options, schools, and the types of new build homes to rent in Gravesend and its surroundings, including Northfleet.
What is Ebbsfleet Garden City?
Ebbsfleet Garden City was launched by the UK government in 2014 to create a new kind of community in north Kent. It sits between Gravesend and Dartford, with parts stretching across Northfleet, Swanscombe and Greenhithe.
It’s more than just a housing development. The plan includes:
- Up to 15,000 new homes
- Seven new city-scale neighbourhoods
- Extensive green space, parks, and walking trails
- Schools, healthcare, retail and leisure
- A thriving town centre near Ebbsfleet International station
This kind of large-scale investment has transformed what was once a cluster of quiet towns into a growing, connected urban destination – with lots of opportunities for people interested in renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City.
Who’s moving to Ebbsfleet?
Ebbsfleet has attracted:
- Young professionals looking for fast commutes into London
- Families who want green space, good schools and modern homes
- Key workers and NHS staff, thanks to housing schemes and affordability
- Landlords and investors, thanks to rising demand and long-term rental potential
It’s also become popular with renters looking for new build homes to rent in Gravesend, with sleek apartments and smart townhouses offering better value than London – and more space, too.
What’s it like to live in Ebbsfleet?
Fast connections
One of the biggest draws of renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City is the transport.
- Ebbsfleet International station gets you to London St Pancras in just 17 minutes
- It also connects to Stratford, Paris and Brussels on Eurostar (services currently suspended but expected to return)
- Easy access to the A2, M25 and Dartford Crossing
- Local bus routes and cycling infrastructure
If you’re commuting into London, Canary Wharf, or the City, Ebbsfleet is one of the best-connected locations in Kent.
Green and open spaces
For a new development, Ebbsfleet puts green space front and centre. Residents enjoy:
- Central Park, a huge new green zone linking homes with lakes and walking trails
- Cyclopark – one of the UK’s leading outdoor cycling centres
- Access to the River Thames and walking routes through ancient woodland
The area blends natural landscapes with urban living – a key reason so many families are renting in Northfleet or Ebbsfleet itself.
Shops, cafes and community
While Ebbsfleet is still developing its town centre, residents already have:
- Bluewater Shopping Centre nearby for fashion, food, and leisure
- Local high streets in Northfleet and Gravesend
- New cafes, coworking hubs and community facilities being built across the neighbourhoods
There’s also a clear focus on community wellbeing, with sports pitches, art trails, and plenty of outdoor gathering spaces.
Schools and education
Several new schools have already opened, and more are planned.
Popular options include:
- Cherry Orchard Primary Academy
- Ebbsfleet Green Primary School
- Northfleet School for Girls
- The Ebbsfleet Academy (secondary)
These are walkable or a short drive from most homes, making renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City attractive for parents with young children.
What types of homes are available to rent?
Most homes in Ebbsfleet are new build, which means:
- Energy-efficient design
- Modern layouts with open-plan kitchens
- En suites and extra storage
- Smart home technology in many developments
- Landscaped gardens or balconies
Options range from:
- 1- and 2-bedroom apartments (ideal for commuters and young professionals)
- 3- and 4-bedroom townhouses (perfect for families)
- Shared ownership and affordable rent schemes
If you’re looking for newly built homes to rent in Gravesend, Ebbsfleet offers a great alternative just minutes away.
You’ll also find homes available in Northfleet, where established streets meet new developments – offering character and community with modern amenities close by.
How much does it cost to rent in Ebbsfleet?
Rental prices vary depending on size, location and whether you’re in a brand-new development or an established part of Northfleet or Gravesend.
As a general guide:
- 1-bed flats: from £1,100–£1,300 pcm
- 2-bed apartments: from £1,300–£1,500 pcm
- 3-bed homes: from £1,500–£1,800 pcm
- 4-bed townhouses: £1,800+ pcm
Properties closer to the station or within walking distance of schools tend to let quickly – especially those with private parking and outdoor space.
View our latest rental properties in Ebbsfleet and Gravesend
Why choose Ebbsfleet over London or other Kent towns?
For many renters, Ebbsfleet hits the sweet spot between affordability, space and convenience.
Compared to London:
- Rent is typically 20–30% lower
- You get more modern homes with outdoor space
- Commute times from Ebbsfleet are often faster than Zone 3 locations
Compared to other Kent towns:
- Ebbsfleet is purpose-built for modern living
- It’s still growing – so there’s potential for rent stability
- It has better transport and more forward-planning than many traditional towns
For people considering renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City, it’s a chance to future-proof your lifestyle – with access to the best of both London and Kent.
What’s it like renting in Northfleet?
Northfleet borders Ebbsfleet and offers a blend of old and new. It’s great for renters who want:
- Access to the new amenities in Ebbsfleet
- A strong local community
- Close links to Gravesend and Dartford
- Lower rents than central Ebbsfleet
Northfleet has a growing number of new build homes, plus Victorian terraces and flats – offering more choice for those renting in Northfleet and nearby.
Is Ebbsfleet good for landlords?
Yes – Ebbsfleet is also a smart location for property investors. The demand for new build homes to rent in Gravesend and Ebbsfleet is rising steadily.
Rental yields are competitive, and the tenant market includes:
- Young professionals commuting to London
- NHS and key workers
- Families looking for space and schooling
- Long-term renters seeking new, low-maintenance homes
As a landlord, you benefit from:
- Lower maintenance costs in new build homes
- A reliable rental market
- A location with long-term growth potential
Learn more about letting property in Ebbsfleet with Hunters Gravesend
Final thoughts: is renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City right for you?
If you’re looking for:
- Modern, energy-efficient homes
- Quick London commutes
- Space, schools and green areas
- New infrastructure and amenities
Then renting in Ebbsfleet Garden City could be exactly what you need.
It’s a fast-growing, future-focused area that offers something different – whether you’re a professional, a family, or looking to relocate from the capital.
To explore your options – whether you’re moving in or letting out – speak to the team at Hunters Gravesend.
We know the area, the developments, and the property types. And we’ll help you make a smart, informed move.
