Derbyshire spans about 2,609 km² (1,007 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Derbyshire
Derbyshire is a county in the East Midlands of England, known for its varied landscape, historic towns and strong rural character. It sits between major cities such as Manchester, Sheffield and Nottingham, yet much of the county remains distinctly countryside in feel. Rolling hills, river valleys and upland areas shape the landscape, alongside former industrial centres that reflect Derbyshire’s long working history.
The county includes towns such as Derby, Chesterfield, Buxton and Glossop, each with its own role within the wider area. Derby functions as a major centre for industry, engineering and employment, while other towns developed around mining, quarrying and manufacturing. Market towns and villages continue to support local communities, balancing modern life with long established traditions and local identity.
Derbyshire is strongly associated with the Peak District, which covers much of the northern part of the county and provides some of England’s most recognised countryside. Walking, cycling and outdoor recreation are widely enjoyed, alongside farming and conservation. Taken as a whole, Derbyshire offers a steady blend of rural landscape, industrial heritage and everyday community life, giving it a grounded and enduring character within England.
Derbyshire at a Glance
House Prices in Derbyshire
The average sold price in Derbyshire is £254,722 across 35,686 recorded sales, making it the 40th most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Schools in Derbyshire 503
Source: Department for Education and Ofsted.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in Derbyshire?
The average sold price in Derbyshire is around £254,722. A detached home averages £341,813, a terraced home £160,786 and a flat £142,385.
What is the population of Derbyshire?
Derbyshire has a population of about 1,057,684 people, at a density of 405 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Derbyshire?
The average household income in Derbyshire is around £49,338 a year.
How many schools are there in Derbyshire?
There are 503 schools in Derbyshire.
Largest Towns in Derbyshire 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Derbyshire stretches from 98 ft at Long Eaton up to 1,335 ft at Grindsbrook Booth, a span of 1,237 ft across 771 towns and villages. This reflects dramatic upland terrain, with a substantial climb from the lowest to the highest places.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 44 postcode areas in Derbyshire. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Derbyshire 60
Derbyshire has 771 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in Derbyshire.
Postcode Areas in Derbyshire 5
Derbyshire is served by 5 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.