Shawforth on the map
Location in LancashireShawforth sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Shawforth
Shawforth is a village located in Lancashire, England, within the OL12 postcode area. It lies approximately three miles from the town of Rochdale and is well-connected by local roads. The village features a mix of residential areas and local amenities, including shops and schools, catering to the needs of its residents.
The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities, with several walking paths nearby. Shawforth is also close to the Pennine hills, making it a suitable base for those wishing to explore the natural beauty of the region. The village has a community spirit, with local events and gatherings that foster a sense of belonging among its inhabitants.
School Ratings in Shawforth
Families in Shawforth have access to 87 local schools. 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 Shawforth
Homes sell for an average of £180K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £124K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Shawforth
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Shawforth, with 6 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Shawforth
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Shawforth within the more deprived parts of England. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.
Healthcare in Shawforth
There are 4 GP surgeries within three miles of Shawforth, the nearest being Whitworth Medical Centre (1.5 miles away).
Local Data for Shawforth
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Property Prices 5,562 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the OL12 postcode area.
Household Income in Shawforth ONS 2023
The average total household income in Shawforth 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 Shawforth ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,286 active businesses based in Shawforth, 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 Shawforth IMD 2025
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Shawforth experiences higher levels of deprivation than much of England. Employment and income indicators fall below the national average, though the area benefits from targeted regeneration and community support programmes.
Crime in Shawforth 26 crimes · May 2026
Crime levels in Shawforth are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure town where serious incidents remain uncommon.
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 Shawforth
Of the 17,292 households in and around Shawforth, 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 Shawforth.