Hampshire spans about 3,743 km² (1,445 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Hampshire
Hampshire is a county on the south coast of England, known for its varied landscape, historic towns and strong connections to both countryside and coast. It stretches from the New Forest and the Solent in the south to rolling farmland and chalk downland inland. The county’s position has long influenced settlement, trade and defence, giving it a quietly significant role in England’s development.
The county includes towns and cities such as Winchester, Southampton, Portsmouth, Basingstoke and Farnborough, each contributing to local life in different ways. Winchester has a long history as a former capital of England, while Southampton and Portsmouth developed as important ports with strong maritime traditions. Elsewhere, market towns and villages support rural communities alongside modern industry and commuting.
Hampshire is shaped by its natural features, including extensive woodland, river valleys and areas of protected countryside. Walking, sailing and outdoor activities are widely enjoyed, supported by access to coast, forest and open land. Overall, Hampshire offers a balanced mix of historic settlement, working towns and natural landscape, giving it a calm and well established character within southern England.
Hampshire at a Glance
House Prices in Hampshire
The average sold price in Hampshire is £386,995 across 59,187 recorded sales, making it the 12th most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Schools in Hampshire 682
Source: Department for Education and Ofsted.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in Hampshire?
The average sold price in Hampshire is around £386,995. A detached home averages £584,957, a terraced home £290,948 and a flat £197,348.
What is the population of Hampshire?
Hampshire has a population of about 1,863,451 people, at a density of 498 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Hampshire?
The average household income in Hampshire is around £61,978 a year.
How many schools are there in Hampshire?
There are 682 schools in Hampshire.
Largest Towns in Hampshire 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Hampshire stretches from 0 ft at Anchorage Park up to 797 ft at Oakshott, a span of 797 ft across 1,042 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 77 postcode areas in Hampshire. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Hampshire 60
Hampshire has 1,042 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in Hampshire.
Postcode Areas in Hampshire 6
Hampshire is served by 6 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.