Whitstable on the map

Whitstable built-up area

Built-up area10.2 km² (3.9 sq mi)

Location in KentWhitstable sits where the marker shows within the county.

33,065
Population
14,493
Households
7 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
12
Schools nearby
£55,982
Avg. household income
1,379
Businesses
1,047
People per km²
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About Whitstable

Whitstable is a coastal town located in Kent, England, within the CT5 postcode area. Known for its maritime heritage, the town features a working harbour where fishing boats can often be seen. The local economy has historically relied on the oyster trade, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at various restaurants and eateries along the seafront. Whitstable's beach is a mix of pebbles and sand, providing a pleasant spot for walks and relaxation.

The town centre offers a range of independent shops, galleries, and cafes, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors. Whitstable is also home to several annual events, including the famous Whitstable Oyster Festival, which celebrates the town’s seafood culture. With its combination of seaside charm and local culture, Whitstable is a popular destination for those looking to experience the English coastline.

School Ratings in Whitstable

There are 35 schools in and around Whitstable. Whitstable and Seasalter Endowed Church of England Junior School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Whitstable

The average property price is £434K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £565K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Whitstable

Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Whitstable, with 38 recorded incidents in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Whitstable

Whitstable sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Healthcare in Whitstable

There are 6 GP surgeries within three miles of Whitstable, the nearest being Whitstable Medical Practice (1.6 miles away).

Property Prices 5,071 sales

Average Price £434K
£1K , £18.9M
Detached £565K 1,761
Semi £379K 1,448
Terraced £389K 895
Flat £245K 721

Household Income in Whitstable ONS 2023

The average total household income in Whitstable is approximately £55,982 a year before tax, in line with the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £42,823. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Whitstable £55,982
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £42,823.

Businesses in Whitstable ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,379 active businesses based in Whitstable, around 42 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 6 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,379 Total businesses
42 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 8%
Medium, 50-249 0%
Large, 250+ 1%

Deprivation and Employment in Whitstable IMD 2025

Whitstable sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
7/10
Income
7/10
Employment
6/10
Education
7/10
Health
7/10
Housing
5/10
Living Environment
8/10
Children 0-15 15%
Working age 56%
Older 65+ 29%
5,091 Children (0-15) 15%
18,440 Working Age 56%
9,526 Older (65+) 29%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 24.2% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 11.6% 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 Whitstable 195 crimes · April 2026

Average Crime Area

Reported crime levels in Whitstable sit broadly in line with national averages for a town 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.

Violence & Sexual Offences 58
Anti-Social Behaviour 38
Shoplifting 26
Criminal Damage & Arson 25
Other Theft 19
Public Order 8
Burglary 7
Vehicle Crime 6
Robbery 3
Theft from Person 2
Other Crime 2
Drugs 1
Local Policing
Kent Gorrell
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

Whitstable Train Station 126 yards
Chestfield And Swalecliffe Train Station 1.4 miles
Herne Bay Train Station 3.5 miles
Canterbury West Train Station 5.4 miles
Sturry Train Station 5.4 miles
Canterbury East Train Station 6 miles

Location

Local Government

District Canterbury
County Kent
Ward Gorrell
Constituency Canterbury
Parish Canterbury, unparished area
Region South East

Home Ownership in Whitstable

Of the 14,786 households in and around Whitstable, 77% are owned, 8% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 77% Social rented 8% Private rented 16%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Whitstable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whitstable

What is the population of Whitstable?
Whitstable has a population of approximately 33,065 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Whitstable?
The average property in and around Whitstable sold for about £434,452, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 24% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Whitstable a deprived area?
Whitstable sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 7 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Whitstable?
Whitstable is covered by the CT5 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Whitstable?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Whitstable, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Whitstable?
The nearest railway station to Whitstable is Whitstable Train Station, about 126 yards away.