Rye on the map

Rye built-up area

Built-up area2.2 km² (0.8 sq mi)

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

15,834
Population
6,257
Households
4 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
10
Schools nearby
£49,969
Avg. household income
767
Businesses
114
People per km²
Create a free area profile for RyeDownload or embed an infographic of these statistics

About Rye

Rye is a small town located in East Sussex, England, within the TN31 postcode area. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, which includes cobbled streets and historic buildings. The town's layout reflects its past as a significant port, with the River Rother flowing nearby. Rye is also home to several art galleries, independent shops, and cafés, making it a pleasant place to explore.

The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is close to the coast, providing opportunities for walks and seaside visits. Rye also hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals and markets, which attract both locals and visitors. The local community is active, contributing to a friendly atmosphere that welcomes newcomers and tourists alike.

School Ratings in Rye

Families in Rye have access to 10 local schools. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Rye

Homes sell for an average of £452K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £570K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Rye

Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Rye, with 10 incidents recorded in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Rye

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Rye 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 Rye

There are 2 GP surgeries within three miles of Rye, the nearest being Ferry Road Health Centre (0.2 miles away).

Property Prices 2,389 sales

Average Price £452K
£3K , £21.28M
Detached £570K 898
Semi £370K 510
Terraced £357K 535
Flat £208K 220

Household Income in Rye ONS 2023

The average total household income in Rye is approximately £49,969 a year before tax, 10% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £38,060. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Rye £49,969
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £38,060.

Businesses in Rye ONS 2025

There are approximately 767 active businesses based in Rye, around 48 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.

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

Deprivation and Employment in Rye IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in Rye 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
4/10
Income
6/10
Employment
5/10
Education
4/10
Health
5/10
Housing
1/10
Living Environment
4/10
Children 0-15 14%
Working age 53%
Older 65+ 33%
2,188 Children (0-15) 14%
8,457 Working Age 53%
5,195 Older (65+) 33%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 34.6% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 14.5% 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 Rye 45 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Crime levels in Rye 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 21
Anti-Social Behaviour 10
Criminal Damage & Arson 4
Public Order 3
Other Theft 2
Vehicle Crime 2
Bicycle Theft 1
Drugs 1
Shoplifting 1
Local Policing
Sussex Rye
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

Rye (Sussex) Train Station 0.2 miles
Winchelsea Train Station 1.6 miles
Doleham Train Station 5.3 miles
Three Oaks Train Station 6.1 miles
Appledore (Kent) Train Station 6.9 miles
Ore Train Station 8.5 miles

Location

Local Government

District Rother
County East Sussex
Ward Rye & Winchelsea
Constituency Hastings and Rye
Parish Rye
Region South East

Home Ownership in Rye

Of the 7,220 households in and around Rye, 73% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 15% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 73% Social rented 13% Private rented 15%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Rye

What is the population of Rye?
Rye has a population of approximately 15,834 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Rye?
The average property in and around Rye sold for about £451,615, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 29% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Rye a deprived area?
Rye sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 4 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Rye?
Rye is covered by the TN31 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Rye?
There are 10 schools within easy reach of Rye, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Rye?
The nearest railway station to Rye is Rye (Sussex) Train Station, about 0.2 miles away.