Shortstown on the map
Built-up area1.3 km² (0.5 sq mi)
Location in BedfordshireShortstown sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Shortstown
Shortstown is a village located in Bedfordshire, England, within the MK42 postcode area. It was established in the early 20th century to accommodate workers from the nearby aircraft factory. The village has a mix of residential properties, including modern homes and some older buildings that reflect its history.
The local amenities include a primary school, a community centre, and a small park, providing essential services for residents. Shortstown is situated near the town of Bedford, which offers additional shopping and recreational options. The village is well-connected by road and public transport, making it convenient for commuting to nearby areas.
School Ratings in Shortstown
There are 76 schools in and around Shortstown. Cherry Trees Nursery School, Peter Pan Nursery School and Bedford Free School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 14 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Shortstown
The average property price is £326K, with semi-detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £289K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Shortstown
Recorded crime levels are higher than the national average. Shoplifting is prevalent across Shortstown, with 150 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Shortstown
Shortstown sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.
Healthcare in Shortstown
There are 27 GP surgeries within three miles of Shortstown, the nearest being Ache Shortstown Beds (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for Shortstown
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Property Prices 7,531 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the MK42 postcode area.
Household Income in Shortstown ONS 2023
The average total household income in Shortstown is approximately £56,748 a year before tax, 3% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £42,543. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £42,543.
Businesses in Shortstown ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,733 active businesses based in Shortstown, around 31 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 87% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 53 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Shortstown IMD 2025
Shortstown 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.
Crime in Shortstown 993 crimes · May 2026
Shortstown sees higher than average levels of reported crime relative to its population. Violence & sexual offences 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.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Shortstown
Of the 22,030 households in and around Shortstown, 59% are owned, 22% are socially rented and 20% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Shortstown.