Bude on the map
Built-up area2.6 km² (1.0 sq mi)
Location in CornwallBude sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bude
Bude is a coastal town in north Cornwall, situated on the Atlantic coast of England. It is known for its long sandy beach and the nearby Bude-Stratton area, which offers a range of seaside amenities. The town is accessible via the A39 road and is served by Bude railway station, providing connections to other parts of the region. The postcode area for Bude is EX23. The town has a mix of residential and holiday accommodation, with a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants catering to both locals and visitors. The nearby River Valency flows through the town, adding to its scenic appeal. Bude is a popular destination for surfing and other water-based activities, particularly during the summer months.
School Ratings in Bude
Bude is served by 8 schools. A further 3 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Bude
Property prices average £379K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £441K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Bude
Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Other theft accounts for the highest share in Bude, with 11 incidents logged in July 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Bude
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Bude falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Bude
There are 2 GP surgeries within three miles of Bude, the nearest being Neetside Surgery (0.4 miles away).
Property Prices 3,017 sales
Schools & Education 8 within 5 miles View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the EX23 postcode area.
Household Income in Bude ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bude is approximately £43,740 a year before tax, 21% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £35,049. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £35,049.
Businesses in Bude ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,057 active businesses based in Bude, around 69 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 90% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 5 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bude IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Bude in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in Bude 66 crimes · July 2026
Bude experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established small town.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bude
Of the 6,836 households in and around Bude, 68% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 19% 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 Bude.