Wool on the map

Wool built-up area

Built-up area3.1 km² (1.2 sq mi)

Location in DorsetWool sits where the marker shows within the county.

20,657
Population
8,566
Households
6 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
9
Schools nearby
£51,344
Avg. household income
1,238
Businesses
87
People per km²
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About Wool

Wool is a village located in Dorset, England, within the postcode area BH20. It lies near the River Frome and is approximately five miles from the coastal town of Wareham. The village features a variety of local amenities, including shops, a primary school, and a pub, making it a convenient spot for residents and visitors alike. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape.

The village is also known for its proximity to the historic sites of Dorset, such as the nearby Corfe Castle and the scenic Isle of Purbeck. Wool has a railway station that provides access to larger towns and cities, making it an ideal location for those wishing to explore the wider region. The community hosts events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among its residents.

School Ratings in Wool

There are 9 schools in and around Wool. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Wool

The average property price is £408K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £517K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Wool

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Wool, with 9 recorded incidents in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Wool

Wool 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 Wool

There are 2 GP surgeries within three miles of Wool, the nearest being The Wellbridge Practice (0.2 miles away).

Property Prices 2,347 sales

Average Price £408K
£1K , £8.2M
Detached £517K 897
Semi £340K 488
Terraced £306K 531
Flat £204K 248

Household Income in Wool ONS 2023

The average total household income in Wool is approximately £51,344 a year before tax, 7% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £38,390. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Wool £51,344
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £38,390.

Businesses in Wool ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,238 active businesses based in Wool, around 60 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 17 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,238 Total businesses
60 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 89%
Small, 10-49 11%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Wool IMD 2025

Wool 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.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
6/10
Employment
6/10
Education
5/10
Health
7/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
5/10
Children 0-15 16%
Working age 57%
Older 65+ 27%
3,262 Children (0-15) 16%
11,685 Working Age 57%
5,707 Older (65+) 28%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 29% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12.3% 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 Wool 24 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Wool records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Anti-social behaviour is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.

Anti-Social Behaviour 9
Shoplifting 5
Violence & Sexual Offences 4
Criminal Damage & Arson 3
Public Order 2
Burglary 1
Local Policing
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

Wool Train Station 0.2 miles
Moreton (Dorset) Train Station 4.4 miles
Wareham (Dorset) Train Station 4.8 miles
Holton Heath Train Station 6.6 miles
Hamworthy Train Station 9.5 miles
Dorchester South Train Station 9.8 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Wareham
Constituency Mid Dorset and North Poole
Parish Wareham Town
Region South West

Home Ownership in Wool

Of the 8,886 households in and around Wool, 65% are owned, 16% are socially rented and 19% are privately rented. Home ownership here is in line with the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 65% Social rented 16% Private rented 19%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Wool

What is the population of Wool?
Wool has a population of approximately 20,657 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Wool?
The average property in and around Wool sold for about £407,897, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 17% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Wool a deprived area?
Wool 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 Wool?
Wool is covered by the BH20 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Wool?
There are 9 schools within easy reach of Wool, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Wool?
The nearest railway station to Wool is Wool Train Station, about 0.2 miles away.