Living in West Sussex
West Sussex is a county on the south coast of England, known for its mix of coastline, countryside and historic towns. It stretches from the English Channel inland to rolling farmland, river valleys and areas of protected landscape. The county has a largely settled and traditional character, shaped by agriculture, coastal activity and long established communities.
The county includes towns such as Chichester, Worthing, Crawley, Horsham and Bognor Regis, each serving its surrounding area in different ways. Chichester acts as the county town and has a strong historic and cultural identity, while coastal towns developed through fishing, trade and later tourism. Inland, market towns and newer settlements support local services, employment and commuting.
West Sussex is strongly influenced by its natural surroundings, including the South Downs and stretches of unspoilt coastline. Walking, cycling and coastal activities are widely enjoyed, often within easy reach of towns and villages. Overall, West Sussex offers a calm and balanced mix of countryside, historic settlement and coastal living, giving it a steady and enduring place within southern England.
Largest Towns in West Sussex 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
West Sussex stretches from 0 ft at Atherington up to 525 ft at Henley, a span of 525 ft across 500 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 39 postcode areas in West Sussex. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Places in West Sussex 500
Postcode Areas in West Sussex 4
West Sussex is served by 4 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.