Kelso on the map

Kelso built-up area

Built-up area2.7 km² (1.0 sq mi)

Location in Scottish BordersKelso sits where the marker shows within the county.

11,282
Population
5,294
Households
5 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
£39,346
Avg. household income
1
Businesses
11,066
People per km²
Create a free area profile for KelsoDownload or embed an infographic of these statistics

About Kelso

Kelso is a town located in the Scottish Borders, known for its historical significance and scenic surroundings. The town features a mix of architecture, including the impressive Kelso Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. The River Tweed runs nearby, providing opportunities for fishing and riverside walks.

The town centre offers a variety of shops, cafes, and local services, making it a convenient spot for residents and visitors alike. Kelso also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the popular Kelso Races, which attract many spectators. The surrounding countryside is ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

House Prices in Kelso

Homes sell for an average of £145K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £145K.

Deprivation and Employment in Kelso

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Kelso around the national average for deprivation. Working-age employment in the area is well above the national average. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.

Property Prices 1 sales

Average Price £145K
£145K , £145K
Detached £145K 1

Household Income in Kelso ONS 2023

The average total household income in Kelso is approximately £39,346 a year before tax, 29% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £30,942. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Kelso £39,346
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £30,942.

Businesses in Kelso ONS 2025

There are approximately 1 active businesses based in Kelso. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 100% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 0 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1 Total businesses
Micro, 0-9 100%
Small, 10-49 0%
Medium, 50-249 0%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Kelso IMD 2025

Deprivation levels in Kelso are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.

Overall Deprivation
5/10
Income
7/10
Employment
9/10
Education
8/10
Health
9/10
Housing
1/10
Living Environment
1/10
Children 0-15 14%
Working age 59%
Older 65+ 27%
244 Children (0-15) 14%
1,057 Working Age 59%
774 Older (65+) 43%
Above Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 17.9% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12.8% 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

Location

Local Government

District Scottish Borders
Ward Kelso and District
Constituency Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Parish Carham
Region North East

Frequently Asked Questions about Kelso

What is the population of Kelso?
Kelso has a population of approximately 11,282 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Kelso?
The average property in and around Kelso sold for about £145,000, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 58% below the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Kelso a deprived area?
Kelso sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 5 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Kelso?
Kelso is covered by the TD5 postcode district.