East Sussex spans about 1,781 km² (688 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in East Sussex
East Sussex is a county on the south coast of England, known for its varied landscape of coastline, rolling hills and historic towns. It stretches from the chalk cliffs of the south coast inland to areas of countryside shaped by farming and woodland. The county has a strong sense of place, with much of its character defined by long established settlements and a slower pace of life.
The county includes towns such as Lewes, Eastbourne, Hastings and Rye, each with its own history and role within the wider area. Lewes serves as the county town and retains a strong civic identity, while coastal towns developed through fishing, trade and later tourism. Inland villages and market towns continue to support rural communities, maintaining close links to the surrounding landscape.
East Sussex is particularly associated with areas of natural beauty, including the South Downs and stretches of unspoilt coastline. Walking, coastal paths and outdoor leisure are an important part of everyday life for many residents. Taken together, East Sussex offers a steady blend of countryside, historic settlement and coastal influence, giving it a calm and enduring character within southern England.
East Sussex at a Glance
House Prices in East Sussex
The average sold price in East Sussex is £411,802 across 28,090 recorded sales, making it the 8th most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Schools in East Sussex 257
Source: Department for Education and Ofsted.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in East Sussex?
The average sold price in East Sussex is around £411,802. A detached home averages £570,949, a terraced home £385,638 and a flat £257,214.
What is the population of East Sussex?
East Sussex has a population of about 824,106 people, at a density of 463 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in East Sussex?
The average household income in East Sussex is around £54,114 a year.
How many schools are there in East Sussex?
There are 257 schools in East Sussex.
Largest Towns in East Sussex 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
East Sussex stretches from 0 ft at Camber up to 748 ft at Crowborough, a span of 748 ft across 478 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 40 postcode areas in East Sussex. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in East Sussex 60
East Sussex has 478 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in East Sussex.
Postcode Areas in East Sussex 3
East Sussex is served by 3 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.