Bridgwater on the map
Built-up area12.2 km² (4.7 sq mi)
Location in SomersetBridgwater sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bridgwater
Bridgwater is a market town in Somerset, England, located in the TA6 postcode area. It lies on the River Parrett and has a long history as a trading centre, with its town centre featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings. The town is known for its annual Bridgwater Carnival, which has been held since the 19th century and includes a procession and fireworks display. Bridgwater is well connected by road and rail, with the A38 and M5 nearby, and a railway station providing services to major cities. The town has a range of shops, cafes, and community facilities, and is close to the Somerset Levels, offering opportunities for walking and wildlife observation. It is also home to the Bridgwater & Taunton College, contributing to local education and training.
School Ratings in Bridgwater
Bridgwater is served by 35 schools. University Centre Somerset College Group is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 13 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Bridgwater
Property prices average £287K across the area, and terraced houses are the most common property type, typically selling for £192K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Bridgwater
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Bridgwater, with 134 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Bridgwater
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Bridgwater 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.
Healthcare in Bridgwater
There are 9 GP surgeries within three miles of Bridgwater, the nearest being Forensic Service (0.2 miles away).
Local Data for Bridgwater
Dig deeper into the area around Bridgwater with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 11,811 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the TA6 postcode area.
Household Income in Bridgwater ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bridgwater is approximately £49,707 a year before tax, 10% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £37,030. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £37,030.
Businesses in Bridgwater ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,713 active businesses based in Bridgwater, around 33 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 45 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bridgwater IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Bridgwater 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.
Crime in Bridgwater 733 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Bridgwater is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 2 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bridgwater
Of the 34,527 households in and around Bridgwater, 66% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 20% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Bridgwater.