Poole on the map
Built-up area39.1 km² (15.1 sq mi)
Location in DorsetPoole sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Poole
Poole is a coastal town located in Dorset, England, with the postcode area BH15. It has a large natural harbour, which is one of the largest in Europe, making it a popular spot for boating and water sports. The town features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, catering to both locals and visitors. Poole's waterfront offers pleasant views and opportunities for leisurely walks along the promenade.
The town is also known for its sandy beaches, which attract families during the summer months. Poole's history can be traced back to the Iron Age, and it has developed into a significant maritime centre over the years. The local attractions include the Poole Museum, which showcases the town's maritime heritage, and the nearby Brownsea Island, accessible by ferry, which is part of the National Trust and offers nature walks and wildlife watching.
School Ratings in Poole
Poole is served by 93 schools. A further 3 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Poole
Property prices average £433K across the area, and flats are the most common property type, typically selling for £309K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Poole
Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Poole, with 221 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Poole
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Poole 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 Poole
There are 18 GP surgeries within three miles of Poole, the nearest being Poole Town Surgery (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for Poole
Dig deeper into the area around Poole with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 23,280 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BH15 postcode area.
Household Income in Poole ONS 2023
The average total household income in Poole is approximately £53,197 a year before tax, 4% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £41,016. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £41,016.
Businesses in Poole ONS 2025
There are approximately 6,380 active businesses based in Poole, around 45 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 149 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Poole IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Poole 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 Poole 869 crimes · April 2026
Poole experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established city.
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 Poole
Of the 62,139 households in and around Poole, 68% are owned, 12% are socially rented and 20% 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 Poole.