Merseyside spans about 639 km² (247 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Merseyside
Merseyside is a metropolitan county in the north west of England, centred around the River Mersey and shaped by its strong maritime and industrial heritage. The area developed rapidly through trade, shipping and manufacturing, with the river playing a central role in connecting communities and supporting economic growth. While largely urban in character, Merseyside also includes waterfront areas, parks and green spaces that form part of everyday life.
The county includes the city of Liverpool alongside towns such as Birkenhead, Bootle, Southport and St Helens, each with its own history and local identity. Liverpool grew as a major port and cultural centre, while other towns developed around docks, industry and transport routes. Over time, the local economy has diversified, with employment now spread across education, health, tourism, culture and modern services.
Merseyside continues to evolve through regeneration and investment in its town centres, waterfronts and transport links. Coastal areas and riverside paths offer space for walking and leisure, balancing the busy urban environment. Strong community ties remain a defining feature across the county, shaped by shared history and local pride. Overall, Merseyside offers a steady mix of urban life, historic industry and modern cultural identity, giving it a distinctive and enduring place within England.
Merseyside at a Glance
House Prices in Merseyside
The average sold price in Merseyside is £216,293 across 44,646 recorded sales, making it the 57th 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 Merseyside 528
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 Merseyside?
The average sold price in Merseyside is around £216,293. A detached home averages £360,372, a terraced home £133,159 and a flat £134,369.
What is the population of Merseyside?
Merseyside has a population of about 1,418,883 people, at a density of 2,220 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Merseyside?
The average household income in Merseyside is around £43,515 a year.
How many schools are there in Merseyside?
There are 528 schools in Merseyside.
Largest Towns in Merseyside 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Merseyside stretches from 0 ft at Ainsdale-on-Sea up to 558 ft at Brownlow, a span of 558 ft across 225 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 57 postcode areas in Merseyside. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Merseyside 25
Merseyside has 225 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 Merseyside.
Postcode Areas in Merseyside 5
Merseyside is served by 5 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.