Polegate on the map
Built-up area2.4 km² (0.9 sq mi)
Location in East SussexPolegate sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Polegate
Polegate is a small town located in East Sussex, England, with the postcode area BN26. It lies just to the east of Eastbourne and serves as a gateway to the South Downs National Park. The town features a mix of residential areas and local amenities, including shops, schools, and parks, making it a convenient place for both residents and visitors.
The town is well-connected by public transport, with a railway station providing services to London and other nearby towns. Polegate has a variety of community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of local engagement. Additionally, the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape, appealing to those who appreciate outdoor activities.
School Ratings in Polegate
Families in Polegate have access to 53 local schools. Polegate Primary School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
House Prices in Polegate
Homes sell for an average of £368K locally. Most of the housing is made up of semi-detached homes, averaging £319K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Polegate
Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Polegate, with 17 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Polegate
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Polegate 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 Polegate
There are 13 GP surgeries within three miles of Polegate, the nearest being Manor Park Medical Centre (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for Polegate
Dig deeper into the area around Polegate with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 2,111 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BN26 postcode area.
Household Income in Polegate ONS 2023
The average total household income in Polegate is approximately £51,008 a year before tax, 8% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £39,309. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £39,309.
Businesses in Polegate ONS 2025
There are approximately 702 active businesses based in Polegate, around 58 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 8 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Polegate IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Polegate 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.
Crime in Polegate 71 crimes · May 2026
Crime in Polegate is around the national average, with anti-social behaviour representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a small town with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Polegate
Of the 5,490 households in and around Polegate, 76% are owned, 8% are socially rented and 15% 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 Polegate.