Willows on the map
Location in Greater ManchesterWillows sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Willows
Willows is a residential area located in Greater Manchester, England, within the postcode area of BL3. The neighbourhood features a mix of housing types, including semi-detached and terraced homes, making it suitable for families and individuals alike. Local amenities are readily available, including shops, schools, and parks, which contribute to the community's accessibility and convenience.
Transport links are efficient, with nearby bus routes and access to the motorway network, allowing for easy travel to Manchester city centre and surrounding areas. Willows is also close to the larger town of Bolton, providing additional shopping and recreational options. The area is characterised by its community spirit, with various local events and initiatives aimed at fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
School Ratings in Willows
Willows is served by 221 schools. St Mary's CofE Primary School, Deane and Rumworth School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 23 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Willows
Property prices average £178K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £112K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Willows
Local crime rates sit lower than national averages.
Deprivation and Employment in Willows
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Willows is among the more deprived areas nationally. The area sees higher levels of employment deprivation, with more residents excluded from the labour market. Income deprivation is more prevalent, with household earnings falling below the national average.
Healthcare in Willows
There are 72 GP surgeries within three miles of Willows, the nearest being Pikes Lane 1 (71 yards away).
Local Data for Willows
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Property Prices 6,086 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BL3 postcode area.
Household Income in Willows ONS 2023
The average total household income in Willows is approximately £40,289 a year before tax, 27% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £31,184. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £31,184.
Businesses in Willows ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,195 active businesses based in Willows, around 31 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 35 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Willows IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation identifies Willows as one of the more deprived areas nationally. Residents face greater challenges around employment and income, though ongoing investment in infrastructure and services is helping to address these issues over time.
Crime in Willows 2 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Willows falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Violence & sexual offences tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring town.
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 Willows
Of the 24,332 households in and around Willows, 55% are owned, 23% are socially rented and 22% 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 Willows.