Nelson on the map
Location in LancashireNelson sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Nelson
Nelson is a town located in Lancashire, England, within the postcode area BB9. It lies to the east of Burnley and is part of the borough of Pendle. The town has a mix of residential areas and local amenities, including shops, schools, and parks. The local economy has historically been linked to the textile industry, which played a significant role in the town's development.
One notable feature of Nelson is its proximity to the scenic countryside of the Pennines, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. The town also has several community events throughout the year, which help to foster a sense of belonging among residents. Public transport links connect Nelson to nearby towns and cities, making it accessible for those commuting or visiting the area.
School Ratings in Nelson
Nelson is served by 113 schools. Walton Lane Nursery School & Children's Centre, Walton Lane Nursery School and East Lancashire Learning Group are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 19 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Nelson
Property prices average £133K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £84K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Nelson
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Nelson, with 79 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Nelson
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Nelson is among the more deprived areas nationally. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Nelson
There are 19 GP surgeries within three miles of Nelson, the nearest being Early Break (0.4 miles away).
Local Data for Nelson
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Property Prices 6,156 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the BB9 postcode area.
Household Income in Nelson ONS 2023
The average total household income in Nelson is approximately £40,562 a year before tax, 27% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £31,871. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £31,871.
Businesses in Nelson ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,536 active businesses based in Nelson, around 31 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 87% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 26 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Nelson IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation identifies Nelson as one of the more deprived areas nationally. Residents face greater challenges around employment and income, though ongoing investment in infrastructure and services is helping to address these issues over time.
Crime in Nelson 488 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in Nelson 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 Nelson
Of the 17,530 households in and around Nelson, 60% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 27% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Nelson.