Berkshire spans about 1,254 km² (484 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Berkshire
Berkshire is a county in South East England, often associated with both historic market towns and modern economic centres. It sits to the west of London and is shaped by a mix of riverside landscapes, open countryside and well connected towns. While parts of the county feel distinctly rural, others have developed more rapidly due to transport links and proximity to the capital, giving Berkshire a varied and practical character.
The county includes towns such as Reading, Slough, Maidenhead, Newbury and Windsor, each contributing to local life in different ways. Reading has grown into a major commercial and transport hub, while Windsor is closely linked to the Royal Family and national heritage. Elsewhere, smaller towns and villages retain a slower pace, supporting local communities alongside commuting and regional employment.
Much of Berkshire’s identity is shaped by its natural setting, particularly the River Thames, which flows through the north of the county and supports leisure, wildlife and tourism. Areas of countryside, including parts of the North Wessex Downs, offer space for walking and outdoor recreation. Taken together, Berkshire provides a balanced combination of historic interest, green space and modern working life, making it a well rounded and enduring county within England.
Berkshire at a Glance
House Prices in Berkshire
The average sold price in Berkshire is £485,926 across 28,603 recorded sales, making it the 4th most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Schools in Berkshire 381
Source: Department for Education and Ofsted.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in Berkshire?
The average sold price in Berkshire is around £485,926. A detached home averages £748,756, a terraced home £374,781 and a flat £273,079.
What is the population of Berkshire?
Berkshire has a population of about 945,736 people, at a density of 754 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Berkshire?
The average household income in Berkshire is around £69,403 a year.
How many schools are there in Berkshire?
There are 381 schools in Berkshire.
Largest Towns in Berkshire 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Berkshire stretches from 52 ft at Wraysbury up to 650 ft at Lambourn Woodlands, a span of 598 ft across 385 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 31 postcode areas in Berkshire. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Berkshire 60
Berkshire has 385 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in Berkshire.
Postcode Areas in Berkshire 5
Berkshire is served by 5 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.