Leigh on the map
Location in DorsetLeigh sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Leigh
Leigh is a small village located in Dorset, England, within the DT9 postcode area. It is situated approximately three miles east of the larger town of Sherborne. The village features a mix of traditional stone buildings and more modern homes, creating a varied architectural landscape. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural scenery typical of this part of England.
The village is served by a local pub, which provides a place for residents and visitors to gather. Leigh is also close to several notable attractions, including the historic Sherborne Abbey and the beautiful gardens at Sherborne Castle. The community is characterised by a friendly atmosphere, making it a pleasant place for those looking to experience rural life in Dorset.
School Ratings in Leigh
Leigh is served by 8 schools. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Leigh
Property prices average £404K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £519K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Leigh
Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Shoplifting accounts for the highest share in Leigh, with 1 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Leigh
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Leigh 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 Leigh
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Leigh, the nearest being Yetminster Health Centre (1.8 miles away).
Local Data for Leigh
Dig deeper into the area around Leigh with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 3,422 sales
Schools & Education 8 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DT9 postcode area.
Household Income in Leigh ONS 2023
The average total household income in Leigh is approximately £39,410 a year before tax, 29% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £31,156. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £31,156.
Businesses in Leigh ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,368 active businesses based in Leigh, around 59 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 21 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Leigh IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Leigh 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 Leigh 1 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in Leigh falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Shoplifting tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring town.
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 Leigh
Of the 22,196 households in and around Leigh, 60% are owned, 19% are socially rented and 21% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Leigh.



