About Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is located on the Isle of Wight, England, within the PO40 postcode area. This coastal area features a pebbly beach, which is popular for swimming and sunbathing during the warmer months. The surrounding cliffs provide a striking backdrop and are part of the Isle of Wight's natural landscape, making it a suitable spot for walking and enjoying the views of the Solent. The bay is also home to various amenities, including cafes and shops, catering to both locals and visitors. Freshwater Bay is known for its proximity to other attractions on the Isle of Wight, such as the nearby Freshwater village and the historic Needles, which are a short distance away. This makes it a convenient location for those exploring the island's coastline and outdoor activities.

School Ratings in Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is served by 4 schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Freshwater Bay

Property prices average £298K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £386K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Freshwater Bay

Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Criminal damage & arson accounts for the highest share in Freshwater Bay, with 7 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Freshwater Bay

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Freshwater Bay 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.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Freshwater Bay

Superfast broadband reaches parts of Freshwater Bay, though coverage is not uniform. 4G mobile signal is available in most areas, with 5G access more limited. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 1,274 sales

Average Price £298K
£6K £1.45M
Detached £386K 512
Semi £255K 382
Terraced £243K 126
Flat £190K 155

Deprivation and Employment in Freshwater Bay IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Freshwater Bay 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.

Overall Deprivation
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
4/10
Education
4/10
Health
4/10
Housing
1/10
Living Environment
6/10
962 Children (0-15) 11%
4,415 Working Age 50%
4,353 Older (60+) 50%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 34.6% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 13.5% 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 Freshwater Bay 48 crimes · January 2026

High Crime Area

Reported crime in Freshwater Bay 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.

22 Violence & Sexual Offences
7 Criminal Damage & Arson
5 Anti-Social Behaviour
4 Burglary
3 Shoplifting
2 Other Theft
2 Public Order
1 Bicycle Theft
1 Drugs
1 Vehicle Crime
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 3 stations

Lymington Town Train Station 6.4 miles
New Milton Train Station 8.8 miles
Sway Train Station 9 miles

Location

Local Government

District Isle of Wight
Ward Freshwater South
Constituency Isle of Wight
Parish Freshwater
Region South East