Leicestershire spans about 2,139 km² (826 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Leicestershire
Leicestershire is a county in the East Midlands of England, known for its gently rolling countryside, market towns and long standing agricultural traditions. The landscape is largely rural, shaped by farmland, river valleys and small wooded areas, giving much of the county a settled and balanced feel. Its central location has historically supported trade and movement, while allowing communities to develop at a steady pace.
The county includes towns such as Leicester, Loughborough, Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray and Hinckley, each contributing to local life in different ways. Leicester serves as the main urban centre, supporting industry, education and services, while surrounding towns and villages retain strong local identities. Market towns continue to play an important role, linking rural communities with employment, retail and public services.
Leicestershire benefits from access to open countryside, rivers and country parks that support walking and outdoor recreation. Farming, food production and light industry remain important parts of the local economy, alongside modern employment and commuting. Overall, Leicestershire offers a calm mix of rural landscape, historic settlement and everyday working life, giving it a steady and well established character within England.
Leicestershire at a Glance
House Prices in Leicestershire
The average sold price in Leicestershire is £298,384 across 32,512 recorded sales, making it the 32nd most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Schools in Leicestershire 405
Source: Department for Education and Ofsted.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in Leicestershire?
The average sold price in Leicestershire is around £298,384. A detached home averages £389,638, a terraced home £196,987 and a flat £143,918.
What is the population of Leicestershire?
Leicestershire has a population of about 1,081,898 people, at a density of 506 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Leicestershire?
The average household income in Leicestershire is around £53,156 a year.
How many schools are there in Leicestershire?
There are 405 schools in Leicestershire.
Largest Towns in Leicestershire 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Leicestershire stretches from 95 ft at Ratcliffe on Soar up to 758 ft at Copt Oak, a span of 663 ft across 417 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 32 postcode areas in Leicestershire. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Leicestershire 60
Leicestershire has 417 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in Leicestershire.
Postcode Areas in Leicestershire 4
Leicestershire is served by 4 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.