West Melbury on the map

Location in DorsetWest Melbury sits where the marker shows within the county.

14,889
Population
5,752
Households
6 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£53,977
Avg. household income
795
Businesses
132
People per km²
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About West Melbury

West Melbury is a small village located in the county of Dorset, England. It lies within the SP7 postcode area and is surrounded by the picturesque countryside that characterises this region. The village is primarily residential, with a few local amenities catering to the needs of its residents.

The area is known for its proximity to larger towns, providing easy access to more extensive facilities and services. West Melbury is also conveniently situated near several walking trails, allowing for exploration of the natural landscape. The village offers a peaceful setting, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to urban conveniences.

School Ratings in West Melbury

Families in West Melbury have access to 14 local schools. A further 7 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in West Melbury

Homes sell for an average of £393K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £516K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in West Melbury

Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across West Melbury, with 14 incidents recorded in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in West Melbury

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places West Melbury around the national average for deprivation. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.

Healthcare in West Melbury

There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of West Melbury, the nearest being Hmp Guys Marsh (1.2 miles away).

Property Prices 2,694 sales

Average Price £393K
£371 , £10.05M
Detached £516K 1,004
Semi £301K 596
Terraced £239K 632
Flat £180K 274

Household Income in West Melbury ONS 2023

The average total household income in West Melbury 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.

West Melbury £53,977
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £40,984.

Businesses in West Melbury ONS 2025

There are approximately 795 active businesses based in West Melbury, 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.

795 Total businesses
53 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 8%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in West Melbury IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in West Melbury are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
7/10
Employment
7/10
Education
6/10
Health
8/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
5/10
Children 0-15 17%
Working age 58%
Older 65+ 25%
2,497 Children (0-15) 17%
8,592 Working Age 58%
3,807 Older (65+) 26%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 22.6% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 8.3% 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 West Melbury 53 crimes · April 2026

Low Crime Area

Crime levels in West Melbury are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure small town where serious incidents remain uncommon.

Violence & Sexual Offences 16
Anti-Social Behaviour 14
Shoplifting 11
Criminal Damage & Arson 5
Vehicle Crime 3
Public Order 2
Burglary 1
Other Theft 1
Local Policing
Dorset North Dorset Rural Visit force website →
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 3 stations

Gillingham (Dorset) Train Station 4.9 miles
Tisbury Train Station 7.3 miles
Templecombe Train Station 9.8 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Beacon
Constituency North Dorset
Parish Cann
Region South West

Home Ownership in West Melbury

Of the 6,442 households in and around West Melbury, 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%.

Owned 69% Social rented 13% Private rented 18%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering West Melbury.

Frequently Asked Questions about West Melbury

What is the population of West Melbury?
West Melbury has a population of approximately 14,889 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in West Melbury?
The average property in and around West Melbury sold for about £392,551, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 12% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is West Melbury a deprived area?
West Melbury sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 6 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover West Melbury?
West Melbury is covered by the SP7 postcode district.
How many schools are there in West Melbury?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of West Melbury, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to West Melbury?
The nearest railway station to West Melbury is Gillingham (Dorset) Train Station, about 4.9 miles away.