Gillingham on the map
Location in DorsetGillingham sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Gillingham
Gillingham is a town located in the county of Dorset, England, with the postcode area SP8. It sits on the banks of the River Lodden and serves as a key centre for the surrounding rural area. The town has a variety of shops, cafes, and local amenities that cater to residents and visitors alike. Gillingham also features several parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Historically, Gillingham has connections to the railway, which was established in the mid-19th century, contributing to its development as a market town. The area is also known for its proximity to the beautiful countryside, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the wider region of Dorset. The local community is active, with events and activities taking place throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging among its residents.
School Ratings in Gillingham
Gillingham is served by 18 schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Gillingham
Property prices average £316K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £250K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Gillingham
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Gillingham, with 269 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Gillingham
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Gillingham 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 Gillingham
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Gillingham, the nearest being Gillingham Medical Practice (0.4 miles away).
Local Data for Gillingham
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Property Prices 15,767 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SP8 postcode area.
Household Income in Gillingham ONS 2023
The average total household income in Gillingham is approximately £55,618 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 £40,565. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £40,565.
Businesses in Gillingham ONS 2025
There are approximately 3,419 active businesses based in Gillingham, around 29 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 43 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Gillingham IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Gillingham 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.
Crime in Gillingham 1,621 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in Gillingham is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 4 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Gillingham
Of the 47,555 households in and around Gillingham, 68% are owned, 11% are socially rented and 22% 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 Gillingham.