Porthtowan on the map
Built-up area0.4 km² (0.2 sq mi)
Location in CornwallPorthtowan sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Porthtowan
Porthtowan is a coastal village located in Cornwall, England, within the TR4 postcode area. It is situated on the north coast, approximately eight miles from the city of Truro. The village is known for its sandy beach, which is popular with surfers and families alike. The beach is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing a scenic backdrop for various outdoor activities.
In addition to its beach, Porthtowan has a small selection of local shops, cafes, and pubs, catering to both residents and visitors. The village is also close to the South West Coast Path, offering opportunities for walking and enjoying the coastal scenery. Porthtowan serves as a convenient base for exploring other nearby attractions in Cornwall, making it a practical choice for those looking to experience the region.
School Ratings in Porthtowan
Porthtowan is served by 23 schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Porthtowan
Property prices average £380K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £446K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Porthtowan
Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Porthtowan, with 4 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Porthtowan
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Porthtowan 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 Porthtowan
There are 3 GP surgeries within three miles of Porthtowan, the nearest being Coastal Pcn Hub (1.2 miles away).
Local Data for Porthtowan
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Property Prices 1,823 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the TR4 postcode area.
Household Income in Porthtowan ONS 2023
The average total household income in Porthtowan is approximately £53,441 a year before tax, 3% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £40,423. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £40,423.
Businesses in Porthtowan ONS 2025
There are approximately 738 active businesses based in Porthtowan, around 61 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 90% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 9 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Porthtowan IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Porthtowan 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 Porthtowan 16 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Porthtowan falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Anti-social behaviour tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring small town.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 3 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Porthtowan
Of the 5,071 households in and around Porthtowan, 71% are owned, 10% 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 Porthtowan.