Barnstaple on the map
Built-up area9.1 km² (3.5 sq mi)
Location in DevonBarnstaple sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Barnstaple
Barnstaple is a market town in North Devon, situated on the River Taw. It serves as a local hub for the surrounding rural area, with a high street that includes a mix of independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs. The town has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to Roman times, and the remains of a medieval castle can still be seen. The River Taw flows through the town centre, offering pleasant walks and views of the water. Barnstaple is also known for its annual carnival, which has been held for over a century. The town is easily accessible by road and rail, with Barnstaple railway station providing connections to other parts of Devon and beyond. The postcode area EX32 covers the town and its immediate surroundings.
School Ratings in Barnstaple
Families in Barnstaple have access to 28 local schools. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Barnstaple
Homes sell for an average of £309K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £383K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Barnstaple
Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Shoplifting is the leading concern across Barnstaple, with 45 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Barnstaple
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Barnstaple around the national average for deprivation. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.
Healthcare in Barnstaple
There are 5 GP surgeries within three miles of Barnstaple, the nearest being Queen's Medical Centre (0.4 miles away).
Local Data for Barnstaple
Dig deeper into the area around Barnstaple with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 8,256 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the EX32 postcode area.
Household Income in Barnstaple ONS 2023
The average total household income in Barnstaple is approximately £47,810 a year before tax, 14% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £36,882. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £36,882.
Businesses in Barnstaple ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,211 active businesses based in Barnstaple, around 42 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 38 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Barnstaple IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Barnstaple are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.
Crime in Barnstaple 257 crimes · April 2026
Crime in Barnstaple is around the national average, with violence & sexual offences representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a town with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 4 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Barnstaple
Of the 22,714 households in and around Barnstaple, 67% are owned, 14% 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 Barnstaple.