Higher Folds on the map

Higher Folds built-up area

Built-up area0.4 km² (0.2 sq mi)

Location in Greater ManchesterHigher Folds sits where the marker shows within the county.

49,880
Population
21,097
Households
4 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£39,410
Avg. household income
1,368
Businesses
2,450
People per km²
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About Higher Folds

Higher Folds is a residential area located in Greater Manchester, England, within the WN7 postcode area. It is primarily a suburban neighbourhood, offering a mix of housing options that cater to families and individuals alike. The area features local amenities, including shops and schools, making it a convenient place for residents.

Surrounding Higher Folds, you will find various parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely walks. The area is well-connected to nearby towns and cities, with public transport options available for those looking to explore further afield. Overall, Higher Folds serves as a practical and accessible community for its inhabitants.

School Ratings in Higher Folds

There are 193 schools in and around Higher Folds. Leigh St John's CofE Primary is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 15 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Higher Folds

The average property price is £176K, with terraced houses making up the majority of the housing stock at around £117K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Higher Folds

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Shoplifting is prevalent across Higher Folds, with 2 recorded incidents in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Higher Folds

Higher Folds sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Healthcare in Higher Folds

There are 40 GP surgeries within three miles of Higher Folds, the nearest being Astley General Practice (0.7 miles away).

Property Prices 8,162 sales

Average Price £176K
£166 , £93.4M
Detached £274K 1,022
Semi £178K 2,517
Terraced £117K 3,488
Flat £101K 667

Household Income in Higher Folds ONS 2023

The average total household income in Higher Folds is approximately £39,410 a year before tax, 29% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £31,156. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Higher Folds £39,410
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £31,156.

Businesses in Higher Folds ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,368 active businesses based in Higher Folds, around 27 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 21 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,368 Total businesses
27 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 88%
Small, 10-49 9%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 2%

Deprivation and Employment in Higher Folds IMD 2025

Higher Folds sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
4/10
Education
4/10
Health
3/10
Housing
6/10
Living Environment
5/10
Children 0-15 19%
Working age 63%
Older 65+ 18%
9,339 Children (0-15) 19%
31,658 Working Age 63%
8,871 Older (65+) 18%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 39.5% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 19.7% 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 Higher Folds 3 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Higher Folds records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Shoplifting is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.

Shoplifting 2
Violence & Sexual Offences 1
Local Policing
Greater Manchester Leigh East Visit force website →
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

Atherton Train Station 2.1 miles
Hag Fold Train Station 2.5 miles
Daisy Hill Train Station 3.2 miles
Walkden Train Station 3.6 miles
Westhoughton Train Station 4.3 miles
Irlam Train Station 4.9 miles

Location

Local Government

District Wigan
Ward Leigh East
Constituency Leigh
Parish Wigan, unparished area
Region North West

Home Ownership in Higher Folds

Of the 22,196 households in and around Higher Folds, 60% are owned, 19% are socially rented and 21% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 60% Social rented 19% Private rented 21%

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Higher Folds

What is the population of Higher Folds?
Higher Folds has a population of approximately 49,880 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Higher Folds?
The average property in and around Higher Folds sold for about £176,135, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 50% below the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Higher Folds a deprived area?
Higher Folds 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 Higher Folds?
Higher Folds is covered by the WN7 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Higher Folds?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Higher Folds, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Higher Folds?
The nearest railway station to Higher Folds is Atherton Train Station, about 2.1 miles away.