About Skelmersdale

Skelmersdale is a town located in Lancashire, England, within the WN8 postcode area. It was developed in the 1960s as part of a new town initiative to accommodate the overspill population from nearby Liverpool. The town features various residential areas, shopping facilities, and community services, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike. The town centre includes a range of shops, eateries, and leisure facilities, providing residents with essential amenities. Skelmersdale is well-connected by road, with easy access to the M58 motorway, facilitating travel to nearby towns and cities. There are also several parks and green spaces in the area, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Overall, Skelmersdale serves as a functional and accessible location for those seeking a suburban lifestyle in Lancashire.

School Ratings in Skelmersdale

Skelmersdale is served by 96 schools. St John's Children's Centre & Extended School and Crawford Village Primary School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 15 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Skelmersdale

Property prices average £222K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £102K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Skelmersdale

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Skelmersdale, with 40 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Skelmersdale

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Skelmersdale 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 Skelmersdale

Most properties in Skelmersdale can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 5,632 sales

Average Price £222K
£105 £4.36M
Detached £304K 1,393
Semi £161K 1,743
Terraced £102K 1,978
Flat £81K 216

Deprivation and Employment in Skelmersdale IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Skelmersdale 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
5/10
Income
5/10
Employment
4/10
Education
5/10
Health
4/10
Housing
6/10
Living Environment
6/10
10,047 Children (0-15) 19%
33,647 Working Age 62%
14,079 Older (60+) 26%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 38.7% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 24.3% 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 Skelmersdale 259 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Skelmersdale experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established town.

101 Violence & Sexual Offences
40 Anti-Social Behaviour
33 Criminal Damage & Arson
23 Other Theft
13 Drugs
11 Other Crime
8 Burglary
8 Weapons
7 Public Order
5 Vehicle Crime
4 Shoplifting
3 Robbery
2 Theft from Person
1 Bicycle Theft
Local Policing
Lancashire Tanhouse & Skelmersdale Town Centre Visit force website →
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

Upholland Train Station 2 miles
Parbold Train Station 2.6 miles
Rainford Train Station 3 miles
Appley Bridge Train Station 3.1 miles
Hoscar Train Station 3.1 miles
Orrell Train Station 3.2 miles

Location

Local Government

District West Lancashire
County Lancashire
Ward Up Holland
Constituency West Lancashire
Parish Up Holland
Region North West

Notable & Famous People from Skelmersdale 1 people

Sonia
Singer
English pop singer