Dudley on the map
Location in West MidlandsDudley sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Dudley
Dudley is a town located in the West Midlands of England, within the postcode area DY1. It is known for its historical significance and features several notable landmarks, including the impressive Dudley Castle, which dates back to the 11th century. The castle offers insight into the town's past and provides visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The town is also home to the Black Country Living Museum, an open-air museum that showcases the industrial heritage of the region. Here, you can explore reconstructed buildings and learn about the local history through various exhibits. Dudley has a range of shops, cafes, and parks, making it a practical destination for both residents and visitors looking to experience the local culture.
School Ratings in Dudley
Dudley is served by 315 schools. The Wenlock School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Dudley
Property prices average £204K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £184K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Dudley
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Shoplifting accounts for the highest share in Dudley, with 120 incidents logged in July 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Dudley
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Dudley is among the more deprived areas nationally. The area sees higher levels of employment deprivation, with more residents excluded from the labour market. Income deprivation is more prevalent, with household earnings falling below the national average.
Healthcare in Dudley
There are 66 GP surgeries within three miles of Dudley, the nearest being Eve Hill Medical Practice (76 yards away).
Property Prices 10,574 sales
Schools & Education 315 within 5 miles View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DY1 postcode area.
Household Income in Dudley ONS 2023
The average total household income in Dudley is approximately £44,713 a year before tax, 19% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £33,118. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £33,118.
Businesses in Dudley ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,881 active businesses based in Dudley, around 27 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 55 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Dudley IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation identifies Dudley as one of the more deprived areas nationally. Residents face greater challenges around employment and income, though ongoing investment in infrastructure and services is helping to address these issues over time.
Crime in Dudley 1,003 crimes · July 2026
Reported crime in Dudley 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 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Dudley
Of the 44,649 households in and around Dudley, 60% are owned, 25% are socially rented and 15% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Dudley.