About Preston

Preston is a village located in Dorset, England, within the DT3 postcode area. It is situated close to the coast, making it a convenient spot for those wishing to explore the nearby beaches. The village offers a range of local amenities, including shops and eateries, catering to both residents and visitors. The surrounding countryside provides opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape. Preston is also near the larger town of Weymouth, which offers additional facilities and attractions. The area is well-connected by road, making it accessible for day trips and excursions to other parts of Dorset.

School Ratings in Preston

Preston is served by 38 schools. Westfield Arts College is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Preston

Property prices average £235K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £184K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Preston

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Preston, with 352 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Preston

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Preston 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.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Preston

Most properties in Preston can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 46,481 sales

Average Price £235K
£100 £54.4M
Detached £323K 13,920
Semi £184K 15,219
Terraced £128K 11,563
Flat £108K 3,280

Deprivation and Employment in Preston IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Preston 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.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
6/10
Employment
6/10
Education
5/10
Health
6/10
Housing
4/10
Living Environment
7/10
5,033 Children (0-15) 14%
19,809 Working Age 57%
13,360 Older (60+) 38%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 31.4% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12.5% 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 Preston 1,685 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Preston 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.

669 Violence & Sexual Offences
352 Anti-Social Behaviour
130 Criminal Damage & Arson
96 Other Theft
81 Public Order
78 Shoplifting
65 Vehicle Crime
56 Drugs
47 Burglary
45 Other Crime
26 Robbery
22 Weapons
12 Bicycle Theft
6 Theft from Person
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

Upwey Train Station 2.1 miles
Weymouth Train Station 2.9 miles
Dorchester South Train Station 4.1 miles
Dorchester West Train Station 4.4 miles
Moreton (Dorset) Train Station 5.8 miles
Wool Train Station 8.9 miles

Location

Local Government

District Preston
County Lancashire
Ward Fishwick & Frenchwood
Constituency Preston
Parish Preston, unparished area
Region North West