Scales on the map
Location in CumbriaScales sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Scales
Scales is a small village located in Cumbria, England, within the CA12 postcode area. It is situated near the northern edge of the Lake District National Park, making it a convenient base for those wishing to explore the natural beauty of the region. The village is characterised by its rural landscape, with fields and farmland surrounding the area.
Local amenities are limited, but nearby towns offer a range of shops and services. Scales is also close to several walking paths and outdoor activities, appealing to those who enjoy nature. The village provides a peaceful environment, ideal for visitors looking to escape the busyness of urban life while still having access to the attractions of the Lake District.
School Ratings in Scales
Scales is served by 4 schools. Keswick School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 4 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Scales
Property prices average £427K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £589K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Scales
Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Public order accounts for the highest share in Scales, with 4 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Scales
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Scales falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. The area benefits from strong employment, with few residents involuntarily out of work. Income levels across the area tend to be higher than the national average.
Local Data for Scales
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Property Prices 1,426 sales
Schools & Education 4 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the CA12 postcode area.
Household Income in Scales ONS 2023
The average total household income in Scales is approximately £40,160 a year before tax, 27% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £33,907. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £33,907.
Businesses in Scales ONS 2025
There are approximately 570 active businesses based in Scales, around 91 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 84% 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 Scales IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Scales 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 Scales 31 crimes · May 2026
Scales 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 Scales
Of the 2,911 households in and around Scales, 68% are owned, 19% are socially rented and 13% 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 Scales.