Making the Move to London: Tips for Publishing Hopefuls

Posted on June 30, 2025 in INTO, North

For many publishing hopefuls across the UK, the decision to move to London can feel like a rite of passage, or even a necessity. While there’s a growing effort in the industry to decentralise opportunities and support regional publishing more, the capital remains a hub for internships and entry-level jobs. Whatever area of publishing you’re drawn to, be it editorial, marketing, rights, etc, London is still home to many of the industry’s largest publishing houses.

That said, making the move certainly isn’t something to rush into. It takes a lot of planning and flexibility, as well as a solid understanding of the city’s realities. This article will take you through the incredible opportunities as well as the everyday challenges, offering practical advice to help you navigate the process.

Why London is Still the Home of Publishing

Despite increasing efforts to diversify the industry geographically, publishing power remains heavily concentrated in London. As a result, most internships, graduate schemes, and entry-level roles – particularly those within the Big Five – are still based in the capital and tend to be advertised there first. For those just starting out, being in London means easier access to these job openings, in-person interviews, industry events, and networking opportunities. You will be within an arm’s reach of big events like the London Book Fair and The London Writer’s Week, as well as notable authors panels and signings, networking socials, and other literary festivals. Creative neighbourhoods like Shoreditch, Camden, and Soho offer lively cafés and cultural spaces where writers, editors, freelancers, and other creatives often cross paths. If you’re trying to build a name for yourself, the city’s sheer density of opportunity is hard to beat.

Planning Your Move Strategically

If you are considering relocating, the most important thing is to approach it strategically. Step one is to secure a job offer before you even start thinking about finding accommodation. London’s rental market is fast-moving and fiercely competitive, with landlords rarely holding rooms for more than a few weeks, so it’s important to have everything ready beforehand. With a job offer lined up, you’ll also have a clearer idea about your budget and preferred location.

Most entry-level publishing roles in London lie around the £25,000 to £28,000 mark for salary. This doesn’t stretch far in London, hence why preparation is key. If you’re able to live at home and save before moving, it can be a big help with easing the transition. Some publishers, especially larger ones, offer rental deposit loan schemes (often up to £3,000 and interest free), which can help cover the upfront costs like depository and first-month rent.

House sharing is the most affordable option, and platforms like SpareRoom are a useful place to start. You’ll find everything from short-term lets to established flat-shares looking for a new housemate. It’s also worth attending several viewings, if you can, before committing to get a feel for different areas of the city – what you’re sacrificing in space, you may gain in convenience or atmosphere. Once you’re settled, you’ll get to know better areas, meet new friends/colleagues, and other opportunities for flat shares will pop up. Prioritise strong transport links over square-footage, and make use of apps like Citymapper to plan potential commute routes.

When moving to London, one of the hardest adjustments for newcomers is the cost of living. Rent is high, groceries are more expensive, and even a casual coffee or sweet treat will put a sizeable dent in your wallet. It’s therefore necessary to figure out your anticipated monthly expenses based on your starting salary and be realistic about what you can comfortably afford. Many new entrants take on extra work, like freelance or part-time jobs, while interning or while waiting for a permanent role.

Building a Network

Arriving in London without knowing anyone can be intimidating, but there are plenty of ways to find your community. The SYP London branch runs events and socials that are ideal for meeting others at a similar stage in their careers. Attending even just a handful of these sorts of things can help you to feel less isolated and more rooted in the industry.

Beyond publishing, London is full of free museums, art galleries, talks, and pop-ups that make it easier to explore your interests and make new friends. Working from cafés, joining social groups (like book clubs), or even just chatting to your flatmates can all lead to new connections.

Despite the financial pressure, many early-career professionals say the move was worth it for the doors it opened. Still, they’re often quick to stress that London is not the only route into publishing. Regional publishers, hybrid positions, and remote work are slowly becoming more accessible and increasingly valued. But for those who want to be right in the middle of things, London offers a unique kind of access into the industry.

So, making the move to London is a big step and won’t be the right choice for everyone, but if it’s something you’re seriously considering, know that there are many people and resources out there to help. The more informed and proactive you are, the smoother your transition into the capital will be.

Written by Sophie Austen