Move to Hitchin or East Finchley

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Hi all,

I am a single Mum with a son 8years old. I want to move to a place have outstanding schools (for DS), safe and good social vibes (for me). I currently have my eye on Hitchin or East Finchley. Anyone has experiences in both places and how it like live there?

Op, I don't have experience of E Finchley other than passing through, but I know Hitchin well.

Other than schooling, what are your priorities? They're two totally different propositions in terms of the life you'd have, small market town vs busy London suburb. Do you need to commute to London for work? Have you looked at in-year admissions in Herts, as Hitchin primaries are mostly (not all) over-subscribed? What is your budget, for what type of property? Hitchin is a very nice place to live, but it has got exceedingly expensive so not brilliant value for money.