Wilstead on the map
Built-up area0.8 km² (0.3 sq mi)
Location in BedfordshireWilstead sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Wilstead
Wilstead is a village located in Bedfordshire, England, within the MK45 postcode area. It is situated approximately three miles south of Bedford and offers a mix of residential and rural settings. The village features a number of local amenities, including a primary school, a village hall, and a few shops that cater to the daily needs of residents.
Surrounding Wilstead are several green spaces and agricultural land, providing opportunities for walking and enjoying the countryside. The village is well-connected by road, making it accessible for those commuting to nearby towns and cities. Wilstead also has a sense of community, with various events and activities organised throughout the year, encouraging local engagement and participation.
School Ratings in Wilstead
Families in Wilstead have access to 70 local schools. Esland Bedford School and Gravenhurst Academy are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 14 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Wilstead
Homes sell for an average of £443K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £543K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Wilstead
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Wilstead, with 17 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Wilstead
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Wilstead among the least deprived neighbourhoods in England. Working-age employment in the area is well above the national average. Residents in the area generally earn above the national average.
Healthcare in Wilstead
There are 6 GP surgeries within three miles of Wilstead, the nearest being Ache Shortstown Beds (2.3 miles away).
Local Data for Wilstead
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Property Prices 7,710 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the MK45 postcode area.
Household Income in Wilstead ONS 2023
The average total household income in Wilstead is approximately £70,022 a year before tax, 27% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £49,306. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £49,306.
Businesses in Wilstead ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,292 active businesses based in Wilstead, around 47 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 35 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Wilstead IMD 2025
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Wilstead experiences very low levels of deprivation. The local economy supports strong employment and incomes are above the national average. Access to services, education and healthcare in the area is generally good.
Crime in Wilstead 68 crimes · May 2026
Crime levels in Wilstead are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure town where serious incidents remain uncommon.
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 Wilstead
Of the 20,371 households in and around Wilstead, 78% are owned, 11% are socially rented and 12% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Wilstead.