Shildon on the map
Built-up area3.2 km² (1.2 sq mi)
Location in County DurhamShildon sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Shildon
Shildon is a town located in County Durham, England, within the postcode area DL4. It is known for its historical significance in the railway industry, being the birthplace of the locomotive. The town features various amenities, including shops, schools, and parks, making it a practical choice for residents and visitors alike.
The local railway heritage is evident in attractions such as the Locomotion museum, which showcases the history of rail transport in Britain. Shildon also has several community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among its inhabitants. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the outdoors, providing a balance between urban and rural life.
School Ratings in Shildon
Families in Shildon have access to 61 local schools. Thornhill Primary School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 1 school holds a Good rating.
House Prices in Shildon
Homes sell for an average of £94K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £58K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Shildon
Crime in the area is higher than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Shildon, with 50 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Shildon
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Shildon within the more deprived parts of England. A higher proportion of working-age residents face employment challenges compared to the national picture. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.
Healthcare in Shildon
There are 21 GP surgeries within three miles of Shildon, the nearest being Hallgarth Surgery (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for Shildon
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Property Prices 1,996 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DL4 postcode area.
Household Income in Shildon ONS 2023
The average total household income in Shildon is approximately £35,476 a year before tax, 36% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £29,221. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £29,221.
Businesses in Shildon ONS 2025
There are approximately 265 active businesses based in Shildon, around 25 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% 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 Shildon IMD 2025
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Shildon experiences higher levels of deprivation than much of England. Employment and income indicators fall below the national average, though the area benefits from targeted regeneration and community support programmes.
Crime in Shildon 296 crimes · May 2026
Crime figures for Shildon are higher than the England and Wales average, with violence & sexual offences the most prevalent offence recorded. Urban density and footfall contribute to elevated reporting in areas like this. Ongoing investment in policing and community safety programmes aims to improve the picture.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 5 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Shildon
Of the 4,931 households in and around Shildon, 54% are owned, 24% are socially rented and 22% 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 Shildon.