Bear Cross on the map
Location in DorsetBear Cross sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bear Cross
Bear Cross is a small settlement located in the county of Dorset, in southern England. It lies within the BH11 postcode area and is situated near the border with Hampshire. The area is primarily rural, with a mix of residential properties and open countryside. The village is not particularly large and retains a quiet, community-focused atmosphere. It is accessible via local roads and is within reasonable distance of larger towns such as Bournemouth and Christchurch. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and farmland, typical of the Dorset countryside. There are no major attractions or landmarks in Bear Cross itself, but it offers a peaceful environment for those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle. The local area is well served by public transport links and amenities in nearby towns.
School Ratings in Bear Cross
Families in Bear Cross have access to 127 local schools. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Bear Cross
Homes sell for an average of £320K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £362K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Bear Cross
Crime in the area is higher than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Bear Cross, with 122 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Bear Cross
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Bear Cross 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 Bear Cross
There are 16 GP surgeries within three miles of Bear Cross, the nearest being Kinson Road Medical Centre (1 miles away).
Local Data for Bear Cross
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Property Prices 2,547 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BH11 postcode area.
Household Income in Bear Cross ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bear Cross is approximately £44,857 a year before tax, 19% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £34,735. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £34,735.
Businesses in Bear Cross ONS 2025
There are approximately 583 active businesses based in Bear Cross, around 29 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 90% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 9 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bear Cross IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Bear Cross 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 Bear Cross 459 crimes · April 2026
Crime figures for Bear Cross are higher than the England and Wales average, with violence & sexual offences the most prevalent offence recorded. Urban density and footfall contribute to elevated reporting in areas like this. Ongoing investment in policing and community safety programmes aims to improve the picture.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bear Cross
Of the 8,593 households in and around Bear Cross, 61% are owned, 26% are socially rented and 13% are privately rented. Home ownership here is in line with the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Bear Cross.