Forest Side on the map
Location in Isle of WightForest Side sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Forest Side
Forest Side is a residential area located on the Isle of Wight, England, within the PO30 postcode area. It is situated near the town of Newport, which serves as the main administrative centre for the island. The area is characterised by its proximity to natural woodlands, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.
The Isle of Wight is known for its varied landscapes, and Forest Side offers easy access to both coastal and inland attractions. Newport, just a short distance away, features a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, making it a convenient place for residents and visitors alike. The local community is friendly, and the area is well-connected by public transport, ensuring easy travel around the island.
School Ratings in Forest Side
Forest Side is served by 28 schools. Nine Acres Primary School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 12 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Forest Side
Property prices average £267K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £197K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Forest Side
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Shoplifting accounts for the highest share in Forest Side, with 53 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Forest Side
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Forest Side falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Forest Side
There are 15 GP surgeries within three miles of Forest Side, the nearest being Newport Health Centre (1.1 miles away).
Local Data for Forest Side
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Property Prices 4,689 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the PO30 postcode area.
Household Income in Forest Side ONS 2023
The average total household income in Forest Side is approximately £47,361 a year before tax, 14% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £37,292. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £37,292.
Businesses in Forest Side ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,197 active businesses based in Forest Side, around 38 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 86% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 14 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Forest Side IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Forest Side in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in Forest Side 293 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in Forest Side is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
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 Forest Side
Of the 13,591 households in and around Forest Side, 66% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 21% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Forest Side.