Charminster on the map
Location in DorsetCharminster sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Charminster
Charminster is a village located in the county of Dorset, in southern England. It lies within the BH8 postcode area and is situated near the River Char, which gives the village its name. The area is characterised by its rural setting, with a mix of traditional cottages and modern homes set among open countryside. The village has a small community hub, including a church and a local pub, which serve as focal points for residents. Charminster is well placed for access to the surrounding countryside, offering walking and cycling opportunities along the river and nearby footpaths. It is approximately 10 miles from the town of Blandford Forum, which provides additional amenities. The village retains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, typical of many Dorset communities, and is popular with those seeking a rural lifestyle.
School Ratings in Charminster
Families in Charminster have access to 111 local schools. Townsend Children's Centre, Bournemouth School for Girls and Bournemouth School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Charminster
Homes sell for an average of £347K locally. Most of the housing is made up of flats, averaging £187K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Charminster
Crime in the area is higher than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Charminster, with 380 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Charminster
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Charminster 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 Charminster
There are 26 GP surgeries within three miles of Charminster, the nearest being Woodlea House Surgery (0.4 miles away).
Local Data for Charminster
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Property Prices 3,737 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BH8 postcode area.
Household Income in Charminster ONS 2023
The average total household income in Charminster is approximately £49,990 a year before tax, 10% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £37,506. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £37,506.
Businesses in Charminster ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,025 active businesses based in Charminster, around 35 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 21 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Charminster IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Charminster 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 Charminster 1,460 crimes · May 2026
Crime figures for Charminster 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 Charminster
Of the 11,576 households in and around Charminster, 55% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 31% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Charminster.