West Lea on the map
Location in County DurhamWest Lea sits where the marker shows within the county.
About West Lea
West Lea is a residential area located in County Durham, England, within the postcode area SR7. It features a mix of housing styles, including semi-detached and terraced homes, catering to a variety of residents. The area is primarily suburban, with local amenities such as shops, schools, and parks nearby, making it convenient for families and individuals alike.
Transport links are accessible, with bus services connecting West Lea to surrounding towns and cities. The nearby coastline offers opportunities for outdoor activities, while the local community often engages in events and gatherings that foster a sense of belonging. Overall, West Lea provides a practical living environment with essential services and a supportive community atmosphere.
School Ratings in West Lea
West Lea is served by 95 schools. Seaham Harbour Nursery School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 7 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in West Lea
Property prices average £170K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £90K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in West Lea
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in West Lea, with 65 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in West Lea
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, West Lea falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. The area sees higher levels of employment deprivation, with more residents excluded from the labour market. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in West Lea
There are 12 GP surgeries within three miles of West Lea, the nearest being The New Seaham Medical Group (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for West Lea
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Property Prices 4,349 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SR7 postcode area.
Household Income in West Lea ONS 2023
The average total household income in West Lea is approximately £40,443 a year before tax, 27% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £33,138. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £33,138.
Businesses in West Lea ONS 2025
There are approximately 650 active businesses based in West Lea, around 22 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 85% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 16 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in West Lea IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places West Lea 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 West Lea 331 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in West Lea is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 2 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in West Lea
Of the 13,419 households in and around West Lea, 61% are owned, 22% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is in line with the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering West Lea.