About Purwell

Purwell is a small village located in Hertfordshire, England, within the SG4 postcode area. It lies just to the north of the town of Hitchin, providing easy access to local amenities and services. The village features a mix of residential properties and green spaces, making it a pleasant area for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle while still being close to larger urban centres. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and outdoor activities, with several footpaths and trails nearby. Purwell is also well-connected by road and public transport, allowing for convenient travel to neighbouring towns and cities. The community is primarily residential, with a few local shops and services catering to the needs of residents. Overall, Purwell presents a simple and functional living environment in the Hertfordshire region.

School Ratings in Purwell

There are 100 schools in and around Purwell. 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 Purwell

The average property price is £513K, with semi-detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £496K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Purwell

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Purwell, with 10 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Purwell

According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Purwell 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 Purwell

Broadband speeds in Purwell 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 3,810 sales

Average Price £513K
£4K £18.64M
Detached £822K 839
Semi £496K 1,096
Terraced £388K 971
Flat £238K 748

Deprivation and Employment in Purwell IMD 2025

Purwell 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 Purwell 52 crimes · January 2026

Low Crime Area

Purwell records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Violence & sexual offences 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.

22 Violence & Sexual Offences
10 Anti-Social Behaviour
5 Other Theft
4 Criminal Damage & Arson
3 Burglary
3 Public Order
2 Vehicle Crime
1 Drugs
1 Weapons
1 Other Crime
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 0.7 miles
Letchworth Garden City Train Station 2.2 miles
Stevenage Train Station 3.8 miles
Baldock Train Station 3.8 miles
Arlesey Train Station 5.2 miles
Knebworth Train Station 6.4 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