Brownston on the map
Location in DevonBrownston sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Brownston
Brownston is a small village located in the county of Devon, in the south-west of England. It lies within the PL21 postcode area and is situated in a rural part of the region, surrounded by rolling countryside. The village is known for its peaceful setting and traditional Devonshire character, with a mix of older cottages and more modern homes. It is close to the River Taw, which flows through the area and provides opportunities for walking and fishing. The local community is active, with a village hall and regular events that bring residents together. Brownston is well-connected to nearby towns such as Barnstaple and Bideford, which offer a range of shops, schools, and healthcare services. The area is popular with those seeking a quiet, countryside lifestyle while remaining within easy reach of amenities.
School Ratings in Brownston
Brownston is served by 13 schools. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Brownston
Property prices average £325K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £423K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Brownston
Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Brownston, with 11 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Brownston
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Brownston falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Brownston
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Brownston, the nearest being Modbury Health Centre (2.4 miles away).
Local Data for Brownston
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Property Prices 3,247 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the PL21 postcode area.
Household Income in Brownston ONS 2023
The average total household income in Brownston is approximately £57,125 a year before tax, 3% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £44,762. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £44,762.
Businesses in Brownston ONS 2025
There are approximately 833 active businesses based in Brownston, around 44 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 12 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Brownston IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Brownston 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 Brownston 58 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Brownston falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Violence & sexual offences tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring small town.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 1 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Brownston
Of the 8,038 households in and around Brownston, 76% are owned, 9% are socially rented and 16% 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 Brownston.