Chiswell on the map

Location in DorsetChiswell sits where the marker shows within the county.

13,558
Population
5,175
Households
4 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£47,125
Avg. household income
333
Businesses
1,124
People per km²
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About Chiswell

Chiswell is a small village located in the county of Dorset, England, within the DT5 postcode area. It is situated on the Isle of Portland, which is known for its rugged coastline and historical significance. The village offers a glimpse into the local way of life, with a mix of residential properties and small businesses that cater to both residents and visitors. The surrounding area is characterised by its dramatic cliffs and scenic views of the English Channel, making it a pleasant spot for leisurely walks.

The village is conveniently located near the larger town of Weymouth, providing easy access to additional amenities and attractions. Chiswell is also close to the famous Portland Bill lighthouse, a notable landmark that has guided sailors for many years. Whether you are exploring the coastal paths or enjoying the local eateries, Chiswell serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Dorset.

School Ratings in Chiswell

Chiswell is served by 20 schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Chiswell

Property prices average £227K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £220K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Chiswell

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Chiswell, with 19 incidents logged in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Chiswell

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Chiswell falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.

Healthcare in Chiswell

There are 4 GP surgeries within three miles of Chiswell, the nearest being Hmp The Verne (0.4 miles away).

Property Prices 2,229 sales

Average Price £227K
£112 , £3.13M
Detached £332K 282
Semi £240K 285
Terraced £220K 1,213
Flat £125K 308

Household Income in Chiswell ONS 2023

The average total household income in Chiswell is approximately £47,125 a year before tax, 15% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £36,780. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Chiswell £47,125
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £36,780.

Businesses in Chiswell ONS 2025

There are approximately 333 active businesses based in Chiswell, around 25 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 10 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

333 Total businesses
25 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 88%
Small, 10-49 9%
Medium, 50-249 3%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Chiswell IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Chiswell in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.

Overall Deprivation
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
4/10
Education
3/10
Health
4/10
Housing
2/10
Living Environment
6/10
Children 0-15 16%
Working age 61%
Older 65+ 23%
2,171 Children (0-15) 16%
8,331 Working Age 61%
3,057 Older (65+) 23%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 43.8% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 14% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Chiswell 69 crimes · May 2026

Average Crime Area

Chiswell experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established small town.

Violence & Sexual Offences 32
Anti-Social Behaviour 19
Criminal Damage & Arson 7
Public Order 4
Other Theft 2
Shoplifting 2
Weapons 1
Vehicle Crime 1
Other Crime 1
Local Policing
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 2 stations

Weymouth Train Station 3.8 miles
Upwey Train Station 6.1 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Portland
Constituency South Dorset
Parish Portland
Region South West

Home Ownership in Chiswell

Of the 5,724 households in and around Chiswell, 66% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 21% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 66% Social rented 13% Private rented 21%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Chiswell.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chiswell

What is the population of Chiswell?
Chiswell has a population of approximately 13,558 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Chiswell?
The average property in and around Chiswell sold for about £226,740, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 35% below the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Chiswell a deprived area?
Chiswell sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 4 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Chiswell?
Chiswell is covered by the DT5 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Chiswell?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Chiswell, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Chiswell?
The nearest railway station to Chiswell is Weymouth Train Station, about 3.8 miles away.