About Preston

Preston is a village located in Hertfordshire, England, within the SG4 postcode area. It is situated approximately three miles from the town of Hitchin and offers a mix of residential living and rural surroundings. The village features a number of local amenities, including a primary school, a village hall, and a few shops, catering to the needs of its residents. The area is primarily characterised by its green spaces and agricultural land, providing opportunities for walking and enjoying the outdoors. Preston is served by local transport links, making it accessible for those commuting to nearby towns. The village has a close-knit community, with various events organised throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging among its inhabitants.

School Ratings in Preston

There are 79 schools in and around Preston. 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 Preston

The average property price is £235K, with semi-detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £184K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Preston

Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Preston, with 352 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Preston

According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Preston ranks among the least deprived areas in England. Employment levels are strong, with low rates of working-age exclusion from the labour market. Household incomes are generally above the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Preston

Broadband speeds in Preston are generally strong, with superfast and ultrafast options widely available. Mobile coverage across 4G and 5G networks is reliable throughout most of the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 46,481 sales

Average Price £235K
£100 £54.4M
Detached £323K 13,920
Semi £184K 15,219
Terraced £128K 11,563
Flat £108K 3,280

Deprivation and Employment in Preston IMD 2025

Preston is one of the least deprived areas in England according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment opportunities are widely accessible and household incomes tend to sit comfortably above the national average. The area benefits from strong local services and a settled, established community.

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 Preston 1,685 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Reported crime levels in Preston sit broadly in line with national averages for a city of this size. Violence & sexual offences accounts for the largest share of recorded offences. The profile is typical of a well-populated area with a mix of residential and commercial activity.

669 Violence & Sexual Offences
352 Anti-Social Behaviour
130 Criminal Damage & Arson
96 Other Theft
81 Public Order
78 Shoplifting
65 Vehicle Crime
56 Drugs
47 Burglary
45 Other Crime
26 Robbery
22 Weapons
12 Bicycle Theft
6 Theft from Person
Local Policing
Hertfordshire Hitchin Rural 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 3.5 miles
Stevenage Train Station 3.7 miles
Luton Airport Parkway Train Station 5 miles
Knebworth Train Station 5.3 miles
Luton Train Station 5.4 miles
Letchworth Garden City Train Station 5.7 miles

Location

Local Government

District Preston
County Lancashire
Ward Fishwick & Frenchwood
Constituency Preston
Parish Preston, unparished area
Region North West