Higher Woodsford on the map

Location in DorsetHigher Woodsford sits where the marker shows within the county.

25,889
Population
10,688
Households
6 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£54,943
Avg. household income
1,556
Businesses
49
People per km²
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About Higher Woodsford

Higher Woodsford is a small village located in Dorset, England, within the DT2 postcode area. It is situated near the River Frome, providing a scenic backdrop for the local community. The village is primarily residential, with a mix of traditional and modern homes. Surrounding the area are fields and woodlands, making it an appealing spot for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

The village is conveniently located for access to nearby towns, including Dorchester, which is just a short drive away. Higher Woodsford has a local pub that serves as a gathering place for residents. The area is also well-connected by road, allowing for easy exploration of the surrounding countryside and attractions in Dorset.

School Ratings in Higher Woodsford

There are 13 schools in and around Higher Woodsford. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Higher Woodsford

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 Higher Woodsford

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Vehicle crime is prevalent across Higher Woodsford, with 2 recorded incidents in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Higher Woodsford

Higher Woodsford 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 Higher Woodsford

There are 2 GP surgeries within three miles of Higher Woodsford, the nearest being Puddletown Surgery (2.9 miles away).

Property Prices 3,700 sales

Average Price £426K
£1K , £7M
Detached £515K 1,552
Semi £343K 815
Terraced £285K 783
Flat £189K 225

Household Income in Higher Woodsford ONS 2023

The average total household income in Higher Woodsford 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.

Higher Woodsford £54,943
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £41,303.

Businesses in Higher Woodsford ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,556 active businesses based in Higher Woodsford, 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.

1,556 Total businesses
60 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 92%
Small, 10-49 7%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Higher Woodsford IMD 2025

Higher Woodsford 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
6/10
Income
7/10
Employment
7/10
Education
6/10
Health
8/10
Housing
1/10
Living Environment
3/10
Children 0-15 15%
Working age 56%
Older 65+ 29%
3,904 Children (0-15) 15%
14,375 Working Age 56%
7,609 Older (65+) 29%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 24.6% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 8.7% 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 Higher Woodsford 12 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Higher Woodsford 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.

Violence & Sexual Offences 7
Vehicle Crime 2
Criminal Damage & Arson 1
Other Theft 1
Public Order 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 6 stations

Moreton (Dorset) Train Station 0.9 miles
Dorchester South Train Station 4.6 miles
Dorchester West Train Station 5.1 miles
Wool Train Station 5.2 miles
Upwey Train Station 7 miles
Weymouth Train Station 8.1 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Eggardon
Constituency West Dorset
Parish Maiden Newton
Region South West

Home Ownership in Higher Woodsford

Of the 11,333 households in and around Higher Woodsford, 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%.

Owned 73% Social rented 10% Private rented 17%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Higher Woodsford

What is the population of Higher Woodsford?
Higher Woodsford has a population of approximately 25,889 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Higher Woodsford?
The average property in and around Higher Woodsford sold for about £425,522, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 22% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Higher Woodsford a deprived area?
Higher Woodsford sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 6 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Higher Woodsford?
Higher Woodsford is covered by the DT2 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Higher Woodsford?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Higher Woodsford, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Higher Woodsford?
The nearest railway station to Higher Woodsford is Moreton (Dorset) Train Station, about 0.9 miles away.