About Wakefield

Wakefield is a city located in West Yorkshire, England, within the postcode area WF1. It serves as the administrative centre for the district and is known for its diverse range of amenities and services. The city features a mix of modern and historic architecture, including the impressive Wakefield Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a convenient location for both residents and tourists. The city is also home to the Hepworth Wakefield, a contemporary art gallery that showcases a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year. Additionally, Wakefield is well-connected by public transport, with good rail links to nearby cities such as Leeds and Sheffield. The surrounding area offers parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

School Ratings in Wakefield

Wakefield is served by 117 schools. Outwood Primary Academy Ledger Lane and CAPA College are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 15 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Wakefield

Property prices average £235K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £184K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Wakefield

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Shoplifting accounts for the highest share in Wakefield, with 104 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Wakefield

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Wakefield falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Wakefield

Most properties in Wakefield can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 23,272 sales

Average Price £235K
£200 £74.09M
Detached £330K 6,287
Semi £184K 8,541
Terraced £152K 6,110
Flat £112K 1,487

Deprivation and Employment in Wakefield IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Wakefield in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.

Overall Deprivation
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
4/10
Education
4/10
Health
3/10
Housing
7/10
Living Environment
5/10
11,988 Children (0-15) 18%
41,927 Working Age 65%
14,705 Older (60+) 23%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 38.9% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 23% 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 Wakefield 1,126 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Wakefield experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established city.

515 Violence & Sexual Offences
104 Shoplifting
84 Public Order
75 Criminal Damage & Arson
71 Anti-Social Behaviour
66 Other Theft
57 Drugs
48 Vehicle Crime
38 Burglary
33 Other Crime
17 Robbery
9 Weapons
5 Theft from Person
4 Bicycle Theft
Local Policing
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.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Wakefield Kirkgate Train Station 0.2 miles
Sandal And Agbrigg Train Station 1.3 miles
Outwood Train Station 2.4 miles
Dewsbury Train Station 5.7 miles
Woodlesford Train Station 5.7 miles
Batley Train Station 5.7 miles

Location

Local Government

District Wakefield
Ward Stanley and Outwood East
Constituency Morley and Outwood
Parish Wakefield, unparished area
Region Yorkshire and The Humber

Notable & Famous People from Wakefield 13 people

Anne Treisman
Psychologist
English psychologist (1935–2018)
Barbara Hepworth
Photographer
English sculptor (1903–1975)
Barry Hoban
Sport cyclist
road bicycle racer
Bryony Lavery
Screenwriter
British playwright and screenwriter
Carol Ann Lee
Writer
writer
David Storey
Screenwriter
British writer (1933–2017)