Balcombe on the map
Built-up area0.6 km² (0.2 sq mi)
Location in West SussexBalcombe sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Balcombe
Balcombe is a village located in West Sussex, within the county of England, and falls under the RH17 postcode area. It lies in the South Downs, offering views of rolling hills and rural landscapes. The village is known for its historic church, St. Mary’s, and a small community hub that includes a pub and a shop. Balcombe is situated near the A23 road, providing access to nearby towns and cities. The area is popular with walkers and cyclists, with footpaths leading through the surrounding countryside. The village has a peaceful atmosphere and retains much of its traditional character, with stone-built houses and a sense of community. It is a convenient base for exploring the South Downs National Park and nearby attractions.
School Ratings in Balcombe
There are 52 schools in and around Balcombe. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Balcombe
The average property price is £678K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £831K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Balcombe
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Balcombe, with 25 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Balcombe
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Balcombe ranks among the least deprived areas in England. Employment levels are strong, with low rates of working-age exclusion from the labour market. Household incomes are generally above the national average.
Local Data for Balcombe
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Property Prices 2,841 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the RH17 postcode area.
Household Income in Balcombe ONS 2023
The average total household income in Balcombe is approximately £73,434 a year before tax, 33% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £50,939. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £50,939.
Businesses in Balcombe ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,227 active businesses based in Balcombe, around 65 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 12 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Balcombe IMD 2025
Balcombe is one of the least deprived areas in England according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment opportunities are widely accessible and household incomes tend to sit comfortably above the national average. The area benefits from strong local services and a settled, established community.
Crime in Balcombe 75 crimes · May 2026
Balcombe records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Anti-social behaviour is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled small town with a strong sense of community.
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 Balcombe
Of the 7,513 households in and around Balcombe, 74% are owned, 11% are socially rented and 15% 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 Balcombe.