Northumberland spans about 4,977 km² (1,922 sq mi) in England.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Northumberland
Northumberland is a county in the north east of England, known for its wide open landscapes, long coastline and strong sense of rural character. It stretches from the border with Scotland down to the outskirts of Tyne and Wear, with much of the county defined by rolling countryside, moorland and quiet coastal areas. The landscape feels spacious and lightly populated, with settlements spread across a large and varied area.
The county includes towns such as Alnwick, Berwick upon Tweed, Hexham, Morpeth and Ashington, each serving surrounding communities in different ways. Many of these towns developed through agriculture, trade and, in some areas, mining and industry. Today, they continue to support local services and community life, maintaining a steady connection to the surrounding countryside.
Northumberland is particularly associated with its natural and historic environment, including extensive areas of open land and a coastline marked by beaches and small harbours. Walking, cycling and outdoor recreation are widely enjoyed, often in quiet and unspoilt settings. Overall, Northumberland offers a calm and enduring mix of rural landscape, historic settlement and coastal influence, giving it a distinctive and well rooted place within England.
Northumberland at a Glance
House Prices in Northumberland
The average sold price in Northumberland is £240,187 across 12,054 recorded sales, making it the 48th 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 Northumberland 160
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 Northumberland?
The average sold price in Northumberland is around £240,187. A detached home averages £363,858, a terraced home £146,425 and a flat £121,194.
What is the population of Northumberland?
Northumberland has a population of about 318,641 people, at a density of 64 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Northumberland?
The average household income in Northumberland is around £47,100 a year.
How many schools are there in Northumberland?
There are 160 schools in Northumberland.
Largest Towns in Northumberland 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Northumberland stretches from 0 ft at Beadnell up to 1,660 ft at Coalcleugh, a span of 1,660 ft across 477 towns and villages. This reflects dramatic upland terrain, with a substantial climb from the lowest to the highest places.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 34 postcode areas in Northumberland. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Main Towns in Northumberland 60
Northumberland has 477 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 Northumberland.
Postcode Areas in Northumberland 4
Northumberland is served by 4 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.