Shaftesbury on the map
Built-up area3.0 km² (1.2 sq mi)
Location in DorsetShaftesbury sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury is a town located in Dorset, England, known for its steep streets and historic architecture. The town's most famous feature is Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street that has been featured in various films and advertisements. Visitors can explore the local shops and cafés, which offer a range of products and refreshments.
The town is home to several notable sites, including the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, founded in the 888 AD, and St. Peter's Church, which showcases beautiful stained glass windows. Shaftesbury also hosts a number of events throughout the year, providing opportunities for community engagement and local culture. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views, making it a pleasant area for walking and enjoying nature.
School Ratings in Shaftesbury
There are 18 schools in and around Shaftesbury. A further 7 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Shaftesbury
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 Shaftesbury
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Shaftesbury, with 14 recorded incidents in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury 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 Shaftesbury
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Shaftesbury, the nearest being Hmp Guys Marsh (1.7 miles away).
Local Data for Shaftesbury
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Property Prices 2,694 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SP7 postcode area.
Household Income in Shaftesbury ONS 2023
The average total household income in Shaftesbury 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 Shaftesbury ONS 2025
There are approximately 795 active businesses based in Shaftesbury, 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 Shaftesbury IMD 2025
Shaftesbury 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 Shaftesbury 53 crimes · April 2026
Shaftesbury 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 3 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Shaftesbury
Of the 6,442 households in and around Shaftesbury, 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 Shaftesbury.