Birch on the map
Built-up area0.5 km² (0.2 sq mi)
Location in Greater ManchesterBirch sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Birch
Birch is a residential area located in the M24 postcode district of Greater Manchester, England. It lies within the wider metropolitan borough of Wigan, and is known for its mix of terraced housing and green spaces. The area is well-connected by road, with access to the M62 motorway and local bus routes serving nearby towns and cities. Birch is situated close to the River Irwell and benefits from proximity to the Pennine hills, offering opportunities for walking and outdoor recreation. The community is made up of a diverse population, with a range of local amenities including schools, shops, and places of worship. While not a major tourist destination, Birch provides a convenient base for those working in or visiting Greater Manchester.
School Ratings in Birch
Families in Birch have access to 339 local schools. Sunny Brow Nursery School and Bowlee Park Community Primary School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 13 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Birch
Homes sell for an average of £204K locally. Most of the housing is made up of semi-detached homes, averaging £202K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Birch
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Public order is the leading concern across Birch, with 1 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Birch
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Birch 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 Birch
There are 42 GP surgeries within three miles of Birch, the nearest being Woodside Medical Centre (0.6 miles away).
Local Data for Birch
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Property Prices 7,179 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the M24 postcode area.
Household Income in Birch ONS 2023
The average total household income in Birch is approximately £40,514 a year before tax, 27% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £31,650. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £31,650.
Businesses in Birch ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,507 active businesses based in Birch, around 31 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 19 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Birch IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Birch 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 Birch 1 crimes · April 2026
Crime levels in Birch are lower than the England and Wales average. While public order is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure town where serious incidents remain uncommon.
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 Birch
Of the 20,979 households in and around Birch, 60% are owned, 24% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Birch.