Wells-Next-The-Sea on the map

Wells-Next-The-Sea built-up area

Built-up area1.3 km² (0.5 sq mi)

Location in NorfolkWells-Next-The-Sea sits where the marker shows within the county.

2,568
Population
1,512
Households
4 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
4
Schools nearby
£47,949
Avg. household income
189
Businesses
33
People per km²
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About Wells-Next-The-Sea

Wells-Next-The-Sea is a coastal town located in Norfolk, England. It lies approximately 10 miles from the city of Norwich and is known for its scenic harbour and sandy beach. The town features a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a convenient spot for visitors looking to enjoy local food and goods. The beach is accessible via a short walk from the town centre, where you can find colourful beach huts lining the shore.

The area is popular for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby salt marshes and enjoy birdwatching, as the region is home to various species. Wells-Next-The-Sea also serves as a gateway to the North Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering opportunities for walking and cycling along the coastline. The town’s harbour is a hub for sailing and fishing, adding to its appeal for those interested in maritime activities.

School Ratings in Wells-Next-The-Sea

Families in Wells-Next-The-Sea have access to 4 local schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Wells-Next-The-Sea

Homes sell for an average of £542K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £630K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Wells-Next-The-Sea

Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Other theft is the leading concern across Wells-Next-The-Sea, with 2 incidents recorded in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Wells-Next-The-Sea

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Wells-Next-The-Sea around the national average for deprivation. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.

Healthcare in Wells-Next-The-Sea

There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Wells-Next-The-Sea, the nearest being Wells Health Centre (0.2 miles away).

Property Prices 519 sales

Average Price £542K
£100 , £3.35M
Detached £630K 177
Semi £445K 112
Terraced £460K 126
Flat £320K 42

Household Income in Wells-Next-The-Sea ONS 2023

The average total household income in Wells-Next-The-Sea is approximately £47,949 a year before tax, 13% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £37,999. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Wells-Next-The-Sea £47,949
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £37,999.

Businesses in Wells-Next-The-Sea ONS 2025

There are approximately 189 active businesses based in Wells-Next-The-Sea, around 74 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 85% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 3 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

189 Total businesses
74 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 85%
Small, 10-49 13%
Medium, 50-249 2%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Wells-Next-The-Sea IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in Wells-Next-The-Sea are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.

Overall Deprivation
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
5/10
Education
3/10
Health
6/10
Housing
2/10
Living Environment
2/10
Children 0-15 14%
Working age 49%
Older 65+ 37%
364 Children (0-15) 14%
1,263 Working Age 49%
944 Older (65+) 37%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 39.3% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12.5% 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 Wells-Next-The-Sea 12 crimes · April 2026

Average Crime Area

Crime in Wells-Next-The-Sea is around the national average, with violence & sexual offences representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a village with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.

Violence & Sexual Offences 6
Other Theft 2
Public Order 2
Anti-Social Behaviour 1
Criminal Damage & Arson 1
Local Policing
Norfolk Wells-next-the-Sea 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.

Location

Local Government

District North Norfolk
County Norfolk
Ward Wells with Holkham
Constituency North Norfolk
Parish Wells-next-the-Sea
Region East of England

Home Ownership in Wells-Next-The-Sea

Of the 1,274 households in and around Wells-Next-The-Sea, 54% are owned, 25% are socially rented and 22% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 54% Social rented 25% Private rented 22%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Wells-Next-The-Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wells-Next-The-Sea

What is the population of Wells-Next-The-Sea?
Wells-Next-The-Sea has a population of approximately 2,568 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Wells-Next-The-Sea?
The average property in and around Wells-Next-The-Sea sold for about £541,816, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 55% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Wells-Next-The-Sea a deprived area?
Wells-Next-The-Sea sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 4 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Wells-Next-The-Sea?
Wells-Next-The-Sea is covered by the NR23 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Wells-Next-The-Sea?
There are 4 schools within easy reach of Wells-Next-The-Sea, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.