The average life expectancy in working class areas of London was significantly higher than in similar areas in other major cities in the first half of the nineteenth century. In London during this time drinking tea had become a part of daily life amongst the poor. The reason for this was a combination of availability and cost. Boats bringing tea to the country docked in London and a certain amount was sold off directly to local markets. At this time in the rest of the country tea was still regarded as a luxury, consumed only by the better off.