Melbury Abbas on the map
Location in DorsetMelbury Abbas sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Melbury Abbas
Melbury Abbas is a small village located in Dorset, England, within the SP7 postcode area. It is situated near the larger town of Shaftesbury, providing easy access to local amenities while maintaining a quiet atmosphere. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a pleasant spot for those who enjoy walking and exploring the outdoors.
The area features a mix of traditional stone houses and more modern dwellings, reflecting its development over the years. The local church, St. Thomas à Becket, is a notable landmark and adds to the village's character. Melbury Abbas is well-connected by road, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider Dorset region and its attractions.
School Ratings in Melbury Abbas
There are 14 schools in and around Melbury Abbas. A further 7 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Melbury Abbas
The average property price is £393K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £516K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Melbury Abbas
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Melbury Abbas, with 14 recorded incidents in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Melbury Abbas
Melbury Abbas 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 Melbury Abbas
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Melbury Abbas, the nearest being Hmp Guys Marsh (2.4 miles away).
Local Data for Melbury Abbas
Dig deeper into the area around Melbury Abbas with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 2,694 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SP7 postcode area.
Household Income in Melbury Abbas ONS 2023
The average total household income in Melbury Abbas is approximately £53,977 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 £40,984. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £40,984.
Businesses in Melbury Abbas ONS 2025
There are approximately 795 active businesses based in Melbury Abbas, around 53 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% 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.
Deprivation and Employment in Melbury Abbas IMD 2025
Melbury Abbas 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.
Crime in Melbury Abbas 53 crimes · April 2026
Melbury Abbas 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 small town with a strong sense of community.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 2 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Melbury Abbas
Of the 6,442 households in and around Melbury Abbas, 69% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 18% 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 Melbury Abbas.