Lewes on the map

Lewes built-up area

Built-up area3.8 km² (1.5 sq mi)

Location in East SussexLewes sits where the marker shows within the county.

38,173
Population
15,472
Households
7 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£63,982
Avg. household income
2,262
Businesses
170
People per km²
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About Lewes

Lewes is a town located in East Sussex, England, with the postcode area BN7. It is known for its historical significance, particularly as the county town of Sussex. The town features a mix of medieval and Georgian architecture, with notable landmarks including Lewes Castle and the beautiful Southover Grange Gardens. Visitors can explore a variety of independent shops, cafes, and pubs that contribute to the local economy and culture.

The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking and cycling, particularly along the South Downs National Park. Lewes also hosts several annual events, including the famous Bonfire Night celebrations, which attract many visitors. The town's proximity to Brighton makes it a convenient destination for those looking to experience both coastal and rural aspects of Sussex.

School Ratings in Lewes

Families in Lewes have access to 25 local schools. A further 9 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Lewes

Homes sell for an average of £577K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £474K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Lewes

Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Lewes, with 51 incidents recorded in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Lewes

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Lewes 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 Lewes

There are 7 GP surgeries within three miles of Lewes, the nearest being Foundry Healthcare Lewes (0.2 miles away).

Property Prices 4,800 sales

Average Price £577K
£1K , £13.66M
Detached £796K 1,254
Semi £483K 1,188
Terraced £474K 1,287
Flat £301K 723

Household Income in Lewes ONS 2023

The average total household income in Lewes is approximately £63,982 a year before tax, 16% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £46,189. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Lewes £63,982
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £46,189.

Businesses in Lewes ONS 2025

There are approximately 2,262 active businesses based in Lewes, around 59 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 38 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

2,262 Total businesses
59 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 8%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Lewes IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in Lewes 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
7/10
Income
7/10
Employment
6/10
Education
7/10
Health
7/10
Housing
6/10
Living Environment
5/10
Children 0-15 17%
Working age 59%
Older 65+ 24%
6,462 Children (0-15) 17%
22,379 Working Age 59%
9,315 Older (65+) 24%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 25% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12% 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 Lewes 167 crimes · May 2026

Average Crime Area

Crime in Lewes is around the national average, with violence & sexual offences representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a town with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.

Violence & Sexual Offences 57
Anti-Social Behaviour 51
Criminal Damage & Arson 16
Shoplifting 13
Public Order 12
Other Crime 8
Drugs 4
Other Theft 3
Weapons 1
Theft from Person 1
Vehicle Crime 1
Local Policing
Sussex Landport Estate and Pells
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

Lewes Train Station 0.4 miles
Cooksbridge Train Station 2.2 miles
Glynde Train Station 2.9 miles
Southease Train Station 3.2 miles
Falmer Train Station 4.8 miles
Plumpton Train Station 5.1 miles

Location

Local Government

District Lewes
County East Sussex
Ward East Saltdean & Telscombe Cliffs
Constituency Brighton, Kemptown
Parish Telscombe
Region South East

Home Ownership in Lewes

Of the 16,325 households in and around Lewes, 70% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 17% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 70% Social rented 13% Private rented 17%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Lewes

What is the population of Lewes?
Lewes has a population of approximately 38,173 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Lewes?
The average property in and around Lewes sold for about £577,139, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 65% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Lewes a deprived area?
Lewes sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 7 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Lewes?
Lewes is covered by the BN7, BN8 postcode districts.
How many schools are there in Lewes?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Lewes, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Lewes?
The nearest railway station to Lewes is Lewes Train Station, about 0.4 miles away.