Otley on the map
Location in West YorkshireOtley sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Otley
Otley is a market town located in West Yorkshire, England, within the LS21 postcode area. It lies on the banks of the River Wharfe and is approximately 10 miles north of Leeds. The town has a long history, with its market dating back to the 13th century, and it continues to serve as a centre for local commerce and community activities. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, cafes, and pubs that line the main streets, offering a taste of local life.
The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking and cycling along scenic routes. Otley is also known for its annual events, such as the Otley Folk Festival, which attracts visitors from near and far. The town's architecture reflects its historical significance, with several notable buildings contributing to its character. Overall, Otley is a pleasant place to visit for those interested in exploring a traditional English market town.
School Ratings in Otley
Families in Otley have access to 51 local schools. Askwith Primary School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Otley
Homes sell for an average of £328K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £256K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Otley
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Otley, with 8 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Otley
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Otley among the least deprived neighbourhoods in England. Working-age employment in the area is well above the national average. Residents in the area generally earn above the national average.
Healthcare in Otley
There are 11 GP surgeries within three miles of Otley, the nearest being Chevin Medical Practice (0.2 miles away).
Local Data for Otley
Dig deeper into the area around Otley with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 2,593 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the LS21 postcode area.
Household Income in Otley ONS 2023
The average total household income in Otley is approximately £56,681 a year before tax, in line with the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £42,855. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £42,855.
Businesses in Otley ONS 2025
There are approximately 991 active businesses based in Otley, around 54 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 11 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Otley IMD 2025
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Otley experiences very low levels of deprivation. The local economy supports strong employment and incomes are above the national average. Access to services, education and healthcare in the area is generally good.
Crime in Otley 67 crimes · April 2026
Crime levels in Otley 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.
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 Otley
Of the 8,260 households in and around Otley, 74% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 13% 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 Otley.