Charminster on the map
Built-up area0.7 km² (0.3 sq mi)
Location in DorsetCharminster sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Charminster
Charminster is a village located in the county of Dorset, in the south of England. It lies within the DT2 postcode area and is situated near the River Stour, which forms part of the border between Dorset and Somerset. The village has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Charminster is known for its rural setting and traditional English countryside character, with a mix of stone and brick buildings lining its main street. The village has a church, a pub, and a small shop, offering basic amenities to residents and visitors. It is a peaceful place, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat in the English countryside. The surrounding area is popular for walking and enjoying the natural beauty of the Dorset landscape.
School Ratings in Charminster
There are 18 schools in and around Charminster. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Charminster
The average property price is £426K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £515K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Charminster
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Vehicle crime is prevalent across Charminster, with 2 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Charminster
Charminster 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 Charminster
There are 6 GP surgeries within three miles of Charminster, the nearest being Poundbury Doctors Surgery (1.3 miles away).
Local Data for Charminster
Dig deeper into the area around Charminster with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 3,700 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DT2 postcode area.
Household Income in Charminster ONS 2023
The average total household income in Charminster is approximately £54,943 a year before tax, in line with the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £41,303. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £41,303.
Businesses in Charminster ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,556 active businesses based in Charminster, around 60 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 16 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
Charminster 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 Charminster 12 crimes · May 2026
Charminster records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Violence & sexual offences 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 Charminster
Of the 11,333 households in and around Charminster, 73% are owned, 10% are socially rented and 17% 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 Charminster.