Mayfair, St James’s, West End, City of London, and Covent Garden are the five most expensive areas to rent an office in London. Prime office space in Mayfair can cost up to £277.50 per square foot, whilst top-tier offices across these locations typically range from £100 to £160 per square foot. These addresses command premium prices because of their transport links, amenities, and the prestige they offer businesses.
London’s Most Expensive Office Locations at a Glance
| Area | Average Prime Rent | Grade A Rent | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayfair | £150–£277 per sq ft | £150+ per sq ft | London’s most prestigious address, hedge fund cluster |
| St James’s | £125–£150 per sq ft | £150+ per sq ft | Royal heritage, luxury finishes, exclusive location |
| West End | £155–£160 per sq ft | £135–£160 per sq ft | Highest rental growth, prime shopping district |
| City of London | £87.50–£122 per sq ft | £100–£122 per sq ft | Financial hub, modern towers, banking sector |
| Covent Garden | £80–£100 per sq ft | £90–£95 per sq ft | Creative industries, media cluster, cultural amenities |
In Q2 2025, prime rents in the West End surged to £160 per square foot, marking a 21.7% increase from the previous year. The highest recorded office rent in the UK was achieved at 30 Berkeley Square in Mayfair, where a 2,700 sq ft office let for £277.50 per square foot.
How Much Does Office Space Cost in Mayfair?
Office space in Mayfair costs between £150 and £277 per square foot, making it London’s most expensive business district. The record-breaking rate of £277.50 per square foot was achieved at 30 Berkeley Square, demonstrating the premium that hedge funds and private equity firms will pay for this address.
Mayfair’s prestige opens doors with high-net-worth clients and signals financial success. The area offers immediate access to Green Park, luxury dining, and private members’ clubs. Standard Grade A offices rent for around £150 per square foot with luxury finishes and concierge services, whilst boutique spaces in landmark buildings command significantly more.
How Much Are Offices in St James’s?
Offices in St James’s cost between £125 and £150 per square foot, with exceptional properties achieving up to £190 per square foot. The royal connection St James’s Palace sits at the heart of the district adds prestige that appeals to wealth managers, private banks, and luxury brands.
You’ll find beautifully restored Georgian townhouses and modern developments, all finished to great standards. Green Park and St James’s Park stations provide excellent transport links, whilst the quieter streets offer a refined alternative to Mayfair’s busier thoroughfares.
What Do Offices Cost in the West End?
Offices in the West End cost between £135 and £160 per square foot, with prime rents hitting £160 in Q2 2025—a 21.7% jump from the year before. This area has seen London’s sharpest rental growth, driven by limited supply and high demand from financial and professional services firms.
The West End positions you around Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street, with exceptional transport via Bond Street, Oxford Circus, and Tottenham Court Road stations. Modern offices now include rooftop terraces, gyms, and wellness facilities. For businesses targeting wealthy clients or international audiences, the visibility and foot traffic justify the premium.
How Much Do City of London Offices Cost?
City of London offices cost between £100 and £122 per square foot for prime Grade A space, with the highest recent rate of £122 per square foot achieved in November 2024. The City remains home to global banks, law firms, and institutions requiring proximity to the Bank of England and London Stock Exchange.
Transport links through Bank, Liverpool Street, and Cannon Street stations are exceptional, with Elizabeth Line connections adding further reach. Modern City offices feature energy-efficient systems and premium specifications, with tower developments commanding the highest rates for prime floors with exceptional views.
What Are Office Rental Costs in Covent Garden?
Office rental costs in Covent Garden range from £80 to £100 per square foot. This creative district attracts media companies, advertising agencies, and tech start-ups seeking inspiring locations with exceptional lifestyle amenities.
The area offers historic market buildings, proximity to over 13 theatres including the Royal Opera House, and excellent transport via Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Holborn stations. Employees benefit from Michelin-starred restaurants, independent cafés, and entertainment venues within walking distance, which helps with recruitment in competitive industries.
Contact us for expert guidance on finding and negotiating office space in London’s most prestigious locations.