Blackwater on the map
Location in DorsetBlackwater sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Blackwater
Blackwater is a small settlement located in the county of Dorset, in southern England. It lies within the BH23 postcode area, situated near the border with Hampshire. The village is characterised by its rural setting, with a mix of traditional cottages and modern homes nestled among open countryside. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and farmland, typical of the Dorset countryside. While small in size, Blackwater offers a peaceful environment with access to walking trails and local amenities. The area is known for its quiet atmosphere and close-knit community, making it a pleasant place for those seeking a slower pace of life. Its proximity to larger towns provides convenient access to shops, schools, and healthcare services.
School Ratings in Blackwater
There are 88 schools in and around Blackwater. A further 14 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Blackwater
The average property price is £460K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £582K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Blackwater
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Blackwater, with 73 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Blackwater
Blackwater 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 Blackwater
There are 20 GP surgeries within three miles of Blackwater, the nearest being Cart Team (0.9 miles away).
Local Data for Blackwater
Dig deeper into the area around Blackwater with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 8,841 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BH23 postcode area.
Household Income in Blackwater ONS 2023
The average total household income in Blackwater is approximately £51,770 a year before tax, 6% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £39,134. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £39,134.
Businesses in Blackwater ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,191 active businesses based in Blackwater, around 39 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 53 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Blackwater IMD 2025
Blackwater 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 Blackwater 188 crimes · May 2026
Blackwater records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Anti-social behaviour is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.
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 Blackwater
Of the 25,152 households in and around Blackwater, 74% are owned, 12% are socially rented and 14% 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 Blackwater.