South Chailey on the map

South Chailey built-up area

Built-up area0.4 km² (0.2 sq mi)

Location in East SussexSouth Chailey sits where the marker shows within the county.

17,326
Population
6,542
Households
7 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£63,871
Avg. household income
1,051
Businesses
106
People per km²
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About South Chailey

South Chailey is a village located in East Sussex, England, within the BN8 postcode area. It is situated near the River Ouse and is surrounded by the beautiful countryside typical of this region. The village features a mix of residential homes and local amenities, including a primary school and a few shops, catering to the needs of its residents.

The area is well-connected, with nearby transport links providing access to larger towns such as Lewes and Haywards Heath. South Chailey is also close to several walking and cycling routes, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding landscape. The village is part of a community that hosts various local events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among its residents.

School Ratings in South Chailey

Families in South Chailey have access to 28 local schools. Chailey Heritage School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in South Chailey

Homes sell for an average of £577K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £738K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in South Chailey

Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across South Chailey, with 8 incidents recorded in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in South Chailey

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places South Chailey 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 South Chailey

There are 6 GP surgeries within three miles of South Chailey, the nearest being Chailey Clinical Services (2.3 miles away).

Property Prices 2,055 sales

Average Price £577K
£3K , £5.6M
Detached £738K 824
Semi £441K 583
Terraced £359K 343
Flat £298K 149

Household Income in South Chailey ONS 2023

The average total household income in South Chailey is approximately £63,871 a year before tax, 15% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £46,103. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

South Chailey £63,871
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £46,103.

Businesses in South Chailey ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,051 active businesses based in South Chailey, around 61 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 18 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,051 Total businesses
61 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 7%
Medium, 50-249 2%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in South Chailey IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in South Chailey 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
7/10
Education
7/10
Health
8/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
4/10
Children 0-15 17%
Working age 57%
Older 65+ 26%
2,969 Children (0-15) 17%
9,790 Working Age 57%
4,557 Older (65+) 26%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 22% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 9.8% 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 South Chailey 31 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Crime levels in South Chailey 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 12
Anti-Social Behaviour 8
Public Order 4
Criminal Damage & Arson 2
Burglary 1
Drugs 1
Other Theft 1
Weapons 1
Other Crime 1
Local Policing
Sussex Chailey, East Chiltington, Plumpton and St John
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

Plumpton Train Station 1.9 miles
Cooksbridge Train Station 2.4 miles
Wivelsfield Train Station 4.8 miles
Lewes Train Station 4.9 miles
Burgess Hill Train Station 5 miles
Uckfield Train Station 5.6 miles

Location

Local Government

District Lewes
County East Sussex
Ward Chailey, Barcombe & Hamsey
Constituency Lewes
Parish Chailey
Region South East

Home Ownership in South Chailey

Of the 7,209 households in and around South Chailey, 73% are owned, 11% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 73% Social rented 11% Private rented 16%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about South Chailey

What is the population of South Chailey?
South Chailey has a population of approximately 17,326 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in South Chailey?
The average property in and around South Chailey sold for about £576,960, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 65% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is South Chailey a deprived area?
South Chailey 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 South Chailey?
South Chailey is covered by the BN8 postcode district.
How many schools are there in South Chailey?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of South Chailey, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to South Chailey?
The nearest railway station to South Chailey is Plumpton Train Station, about 1.9 miles away.