Fortuneswell on the map

Fortuneswell built-up area

Built-up area1.5 km² (0.6 sq mi)

Location in DorsetFortuneswell 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 Fortuneswell

Fortuneswell is a village located in Dorset, England, within the postcode area DT5. It is situated on the Isle of Portland, which is known for its limestone and rugged coastline. The village offers a range of local amenities, including shops and eateries, catering to both residents and visitors. Its proximity to the coast makes it a suitable base for those looking to explore the surrounding areas, including nearby beaches and walking trails.

The village has a mix of residential properties and holiday accommodations, making it a popular choice for those seeking a seaside retreat. Fortuneswell is also close to the Portland Bill lighthouse, a notable landmark in the region. The area is well-connected by local transport, allowing easy access to other parts of Dorset, including Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

School Ratings in Fortuneswell

There are 20 schools in and around Fortuneswell. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Fortuneswell

The average property price is £227K, with terraced houses making up the majority of the housing stock at around £220K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Fortuneswell

Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Fortuneswell, with 19 recorded incidents in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Fortuneswell

Fortuneswell 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 Fortuneswell

There are 4 GP surgeries within three miles of Fortuneswell, 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 Fortuneswell ONS 2023

The average total household income in Fortuneswell 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.

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

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

Businesses in Fortuneswell ONS 2025

There are approximately 333 active businesses based in Fortuneswell, 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 Fortuneswell IMD 2025

Fortuneswell 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.

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 Fortuneswell 69 crimes · May 2026

Average Crime Area

Reported crime levels in Fortuneswell sit broadly in line with national averages for a small town of this size. Violence & sexual offences accounts for the largest share of recorded offences. The profile is typical of a well-populated area with a mix of residential and commercial activity.

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 Fortuneswell

Of the 5,724 households in and around Fortuneswell, 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 Fortuneswell.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fortuneswell

What is the population of Fortuneswell?
Fortuneswell 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 Fortuneswell?
The average property in and around Fortuneswell 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 Fortuneswell a deprived area?
Fortuneswell 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 Fortuneswell?
Fortuneswell is covered by the DT5 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Fortuneswell?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Fortuneswell, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Fortuneswell?
The nearest railway station to Fortuneswell is Weymouth Train Station, about 3.8 miles away.