Shefford on the map

Shefford built-up area

Built-up area1.9 km² (0.7 sq mi)

Location in BedfordshireShefford sits where the marker shows within the county.

15,208
Population
4,859
Households
7 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£69,722
Avg. household income
630
Businesses
341
People per km²
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About Shefford

Shefford is a small town located in Bedfordshire, England, within the SG17 postcode area. The town features a mix of residential areas and local amenities, including shops, schools, and parks, making it a convenient place for residents. The nearby River Shefford adds to the town's appeal, providing a pleasant setting for walks and outdoor activities.

In terms of transport, Shefford is well-connected, with access to major roads that link it to nearby towns and cities. The town's community is active, with various local events and organisations that foster a sense of belonging among residents. Overall, Shefford offers a simple, community-oriented lifestyle with the necessary facilities for everyday living.

School Ratings in Shefford

There are 35 schools in and around Shefford. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Shefford

The average property price is £420K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £530K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Shefford

Recorded crime levels are higher than the national average. Vehicle crime is prevalent across Shefford, with 33 recorded incidents in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Shefford

Shefford sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are strong, with low rates of working-age exclusion from the labour market. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Healthcare in Shefford

There are 4 GP surgeries within three miles of Shefford, the nearest being Shefford Health Centre (0.7 miles away).

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Property Prices 2,528 sales

Average Price £420K
£500 , £13.2M
Detached £530K 1,092
Semi £361K 596
Terraced £296K 508
Flat £187K 220

Household Income in Shefford ONS 2023

The average total household income in Shefford is approximately £69,722 a year before tax, 26% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £48,958. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Shefford £69,722
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £48,958.

Businesses in Shefford ONS 2025

There are approximately 630 active businesses based in Shefford, around 41 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 10 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

630 Total businesses
41 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 92%
Small, 10-49 7%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Shefford IMD 2025

Shefford sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
7/10
Income
7/10
Employment
8/10
Education
6/10
Health
8/10
Housing
4/10
Living Environment
7/10
Children 0-15 20%
Working age 62%
Older 65+ 18%
3,058 Children (0-15) 20%
9,469 Working Age 62%
2,674 Older (65+) 18%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 23.2% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 10.3% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Shefford 123 crimes · April 2026

High Crime Area

Shefford sees higher than average levels of reported crime relative to its population. Vehicle crime represents the most frequently recorded category. This pattern is not uncommon in densely populated urban areas and does not necessarily reflect the experience of most residents.

Vehicle Crime 33
Violence & Sexual Offences 30
Anti-Social Behaviour 17
Shoplifting 15
Public Order 9
Criminal Damage & Arson 8
Weapons 3
Other Theft 2
Other Crime 2
Bicycle Theft 1
Burglary 1
Drugs 1
Robbery 1
Local Policing
Bedfordshire Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton and Shefford Visit force website →
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Arlesey Train Station 3.1 miles
Biggleswade Train Station 4.2 miles
Sandy Train Station 6.1 miles
Letchworth Garden City Train Station 6.1 miles
Hitchin Train Station 6.8 miles
Baldock Train Station 7 miles

Location

Local Government

District Central Bedfordshire
Ward Shefford
Constituency Mid Bedfordshire
Parish Shefford
Region East of England

Home Ownership in Shefford

Of the 6,005 households in and around Shefford, 73% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 13% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 73% Social rented 14% Private rented 13%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Shefford.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shefford

What is the population of Shefford?
Shefford has a population of approximately 15,208 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Shefford?
The average property in and around Shefford sold for about £419,701, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 20% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Shefford a deprived area?
Shefford sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 7 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Shefford?
Shefford is covered by the SG17 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Shefford?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Shefford, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Shefford?
The nearest railway station to Shefford is Arlesey Train Station, about 3.1 miles away.