Dunster on the map

Dunster built-up area

Built-up area0.2 km² (0.1 sq mi)

Location in SomersetDunster sits where the marker shows within the county.

18,745
Population
8,382
Households
4 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
9
Schools nearby
£41,908
Avg. household income
874
Businesses
56
People per km²
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About Dunster

Dunster is a village located in Somerset, England, within the postcode area TA24. It is known for its medieval architecture, including Dunster Castle, which dates back to the 11th century and offers insights into the area's past. The village features a variety of shops, cafes, and local businesses, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot.

The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape. Dunster is also close to the Exmoor National Park, which offers further outdoor activities and scenic views. The village hosts several events throughout the year, contributing to its community spirit and providing visitors with a chance to experience local culture.

School Ratings in Dunster

Families in Dunster have access to 9 local schools. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Dunster

Homes sell for an average of £347K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £427K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Dunster

Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Shoplifting is the leading concern across Dunster, with 3 incidents recorded in May 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Dunster

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Dunster 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 Dunster

There are 2 GP surgeries within three miles of Dunster, the nearest being Dunster & Porlock Surgeries (0.3 miles away).

Property Prices 3,085 sales

Average Price £347K
£1K , £86.7M
Detached £427K 916
Semi £293K 678
Terraced £235K 602
Flat £159K 622

Household Income in Dunster ONS 2023

The average total household income in Dunster is approximately £41,908 a year before tax, 24% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £33,375. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Dunster £41,908
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £33,375.

Businesses in Dunster ONS 2025

There are approximately 874 active businesses based in Dunster, around 47 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% 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.

874 Total businesses
47 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 8%
Medium, 50-249 0%
Large, 250+ 1%

Deprivation and Employment in Dunster IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in Dunster 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
4/10
Health
5/10
Housing
2/10
Living Environment
4/10
Children 0-15 12%
Working age 52%
Older 65+ 36%
2,303 Children (0-15) 12%
9,769 Working Age 52%
6,670 Older (65+) 36%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 37.9% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 14.6% 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 Dunster 26 crimes · May 2026

Low Crime Area

Crime levels in Dunster are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure small town where serious incidents remain uncommon.

Violence & Sexual Offences 15
Shoplifting 3
Anti-Social Behaviour 2
Criminal Damage & Arson 2
Burglary 1
Other Theft 1
Public Order 1
Vehicle Crime 1
Local Policing
Avon And Somerset Williton and Watchet
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 Somerset West and Taunton
County Somerset
Ward Minehead North
Constituency Bridgwater and West Somerset
Parish Minehead
Region South West

Home Ownership in Dunster

Of the 8,846 households in and around Dunster, 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%.

Owned 66% Social rented 14% Private rented 20%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Dunster.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dunster

What is the population of Dunster?
Dunster has a population of approximately 18,745 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Dunster?
The average property in and around Dunster sold for about £346,998, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is close to the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Dunster a deprived area?
Dunster 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 Dunster?
Dunster is covered by the TA24 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Dunster?
There are 9 schools within 5 miles of Dunster, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.