Fold Head on the map
Location in LancashireFold Head sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Fold Head
Fold Head is a small locality situated in Lancashire, England, within the OL12 postcode area. It is primarily a residential area, characterised by its close-knit community and local amenities. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking and cycling, making it a suitable spot for those who enjoy nature.
The area is conveniently located near the town of Rochdale, which provides additional facilities, including shops, schools, and healthcare services. Public transport links are accessible, allowing for easy travel to nearby towns and cities. Fold Head serves as a peaceful place for families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining within reach of urban conveniences.
School Ratings in Fold Head
There are 114 schools in and around Fold Head. Kentmere Primary Academy and Rochdale Sixth Form College are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 16 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Fold Head
The average property price is £180K, with terraced houses making up the majority of the housing stock at around £124K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Fold Head
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Fold Head, with 4 recorded incidents in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Fold Head
Fold Head falls within the more deprived areas of England, 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 Fold Head
There are 21 GP surgeries within three miles of Fold Head, the nearest being Whitworth Medical Centre (0.5 miles away).
Local Data for Fold Head
Dig deeper into the area around Fold Head with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 5,562 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the OL12 postcode area.
Household Income in Fold Head ONS 2023
The average total household income in Fold Head is approximately £42,641 a year before tax, 23% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £32,183. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £32,183.
Businesses in Fold Head ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,286 active businesses based in Fold Head, around 30 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 12 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Fold Head IMD 2025
Fold Head falls within the more deprived areas of England according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment opportunities can be more limited and household incomes tend to sit below the national average. Investment in local services and regeneration continues to support the community.
Crime in Fold Head 20 crimes · April 2026
Fold Head 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.
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 Fold Head
Of the 17,292 households in and around Fold Head, 64% are owned, 17% are socially rented and 19% are privately rented. Home ownership here is in line with the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Fold Head.



