Preston on the map
Location in DevonPreston sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Preston
Preston is a suburb located in the county of Devon, England, within the TQ3 postcode area. It lies close to the coastal town of Paignton and is part of the larger Torbay district. The area features a mix of residential properties and local amenities, including shops, cafes, and schools, making it a convenient place for families and individuals alike.
The nearby beaches provide opportunities for various outdoor activities, including walking and water sports. Preston also has access to public transport, allowing easy travel to surrounding areas such as Torquay and Brixham. With its proximity to the coast and local facilities, Preston serves as a practical base for exploring the wider region of South Devon.
School Ratings in Preston
There are 64 schools in and around Preston. A further 4 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Preston
The average property price is £244K, with semi-detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £190K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Preston
Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Preston, with 315 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Preston
Preston sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.
Healthcare in Preston
There are 16 GP surgeries within three miles of Preston, the nearest being Pembroke Medical Group (0.5 miles away).
Local Data for Preston
Dig deeper into the area around Preston with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 46,814 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the TQ3 postcode area.
Household Income in Preston ONS 2023
The average total household income in Preston is approximately £48,170 a year before tax, 13% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £35,745. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £35,745.
Businesses in Preston ONS 2025
There are approximately 12,167 active businesses based in Preston, around 41 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 237 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Preston IMD 2025
Preston sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.
Crime in Preston 1,822 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime levels in Preston sit broadly in line with national averages for a city of this size. Violence & sexual offences accounts for the largest share of recorded offences. The profile is typical of a well-populated area with a mix of residential and commercial activity.
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 Preston
Of the 125,852 households in and around Preston, 69% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 18% 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 Preston.