Which of the two has better older architecture? Which has more old canal side pubs? Which has more of a younger, single, hip population? Thanks!

I've lived in both, and Islington is waaaay better.

Camden is just full of tourists mainly, but also those who are not native to London and have heard that it's the cool place to go. Well, it might have been cool five or six years ago, but now it's way too crowded and full of try-hards. It's also very dangerous – I have a friend who still lives there and she is frequently followed home at night.

Islington, on the other hand, is lovely. there are some fantastic pubs and restaurants, and I like the shopping areas better.

That said, they are both very expensive to live in, partly because of their close proximity to the centre of London and partly because they're supposed to be trendy. That's one reason why I no longer live there, and certainly wouldn't consider moving back to either.

Personally, I love Camden =]

I would say Islington is the best! I've been living here for 10 year and still don't get tired of it. there aren't many pubs just on the canal, but there are quite a few close to it. Also there is the lovely antiques market on Saturdays.
With Camden I find there are too many tourist there and it's just umbearable to walk around at the weekend if you are just in the mood for relaxing

As Amy crackhouse says 'Camden Rules'!, well at this point, she gets it right.

I live in camden so camden camden camden, Islington is alright but nothing compares to camden. It's known worldwide. haller!!!

Both great areas, and very close to each other so you’re never that far away from one if you live in the other.

I’ve lived in the old Street end of Islington which back onto Shoreditch/Hoxton, a nice trendy area that’s not as pretentious as it’s made out to be. Lots of good bars, clubs and restaurants, I loved it there!