About Hitchin

Hitchin is a market town located in Hertfordshire, England, with the postcode area SG4. It has a long-standing tradition as a market town, with its market dating back to the 12th century. The town centre features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a convenient place for both residents and visitors. Hitchin is also home to several historical buildings, including St. Mary's Church, which dates back to the 14th century. The town is well-connected, with regular train services to London and other nearby towns. Hitchin offers a selection of parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The annual Hitchin Festival showcases local talent and community spirit, adding to the town's sense of identity. Overall, Hitchin is a well-equipped town with a mix of modern amenities and historical significance.

School Ratings in Hitchin

Hitchin is served by 84 schools. NH8 Bluebell Family Centre and St Andrew's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, Hitchin are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 10 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Hitchin

Property prices average £469K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £472K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Hitchin

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Hitchin, with 57 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Hitchin

Hitchin falls within the least deprived areas nationally, based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. The area benefits from strong employment, with few residents involuntarily out of work. Income levels across the area tend to be higher than the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Hitchin

Most properties in Hitchin can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 13,128 sales

Average Price £469K
£200 £29.58M
Detached £695K 3,003
Semi £472K 3,437
Terraced £366K 3,383
Flat £239K 2,797

Deprivation and Employment in Hitchin IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation ranks Hitchin among the least deprived parts of England. Residents generally enjoy good access to employment and higher than average household incomes. Education and health outcomes in the area also compare favourably with the rest of the country.

Overall Deprivation
8/10
Income
8/10
Employment
8/10
Education
8/10
Health
8/10
Housing
7/10
Living Environment
6/10
9,182 Children (0-15) 19%
29,919 Working Age 61%
12,798 Older (60+) 26%
Above Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 17% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 11.2% 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 Hitchin 376 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Hitchin experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established town.

146 Violence & Sexual Offences
57 Anti-Social Behaviour
36 Other Theft
29 Public Order
27 Shoplifting
23 Burglary
23 Criminal Damage & Arson
14 Drugs
6 Other Crime
5 Bicycle Theft
5 Vehicle Crime
3 Theft from Person
2 Weapons
Local Policing
Hertfordshire Hitchin Urban 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

Hitchin Train Station 0.5 miles
Letchworth Garden City Train Station 2 miles
Baldock Train Station 3.9 miles
Arlesey Train Station 4.5 miles
Stevenage Train Station 4.7 miles
Knebworth Train Station 7.2 miles

Location

Local Government

District North Hertfordshire
County Hertfordshire
Ward Hitchin Bearton
Constituency Hitchin and Harpenden
Parish North Hertfordshire, unparished area
Region East of England

Notable & Famous People from Hitchin 17 people

Aidan Devine
Actor
English-Canadian actor
Dave Kitson
Association football player
British footballer also the secret footballer (born 1980)
Diana Wallis
Lawyer
British politician (born 1954)
Eddie Prévost
Drummer
English percussionist, drummer, writer, publisher
Elaine Murray
Politician
British politician (born 1954)
Elizabeth Jenkins
Writer
British writer (1905–2010)
Frank Launder
Screenwriter
British film director, producer and writer (1906–1997)
Gail Emms
Badminton player
badminton player
Giles Swayne
Composer
British composer
Graham Poll
Association football referee
English football referee