Porthcawl on the map
Built-up area4.9 km² (1.9 sq mi)
Location in BridgendPorthcawl sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Porthcawl
Porthcawl is a coastal town located in Bridgend County, Wales, with the postcode area CF36. It is known for its sandy beaches, which attract visitors throughout the year. The town features a lively promenade that offers various shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
In addition to its beaches, Porthcawl is home to several attractions, including the historic Porthcawl Lighthouse and the nearby Coney Beach amusement park. The town also hosts a number of events and festivals, providing entertainment for all ages. With its mix of leisure activities and coastal scenery, Porthcawl offers a pleasant environment for a day out or a longer stay.
School Ratings in Porthcawl
Families in Porthcawl have access to 21 local schools.
House Prices in Porthcawl
Homes sell for an average of £320K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £399K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Porthcawl
Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is the leading concern across Porthcawl, with 21 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Healthcare in Porthcawl
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Porthcawl, the nearest being Porthcawl Medical (0.3 miles away).
Local Data for Porthcawl
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Property Prices 2,530 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Household Income in Porthcawl ONS 2023
The average total household income in Porthcawl is approximately £44,811 a year before tax, 19% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £34,672. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £34,672.
Businesses in Porthcawl ONS 2025
There are approximately 483 active businesses based in Porthcawl, around 30 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 5 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Crime in Porthcawl 113 crimes · May 2026
Crime in Porthcawl is around the national average, with violence & sexual offences representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a small town with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.
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 Porthcawl
Of the 7,429 households in and around Porthcawl, 77% are owned, 6% are socially rented and 17% 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 Porthcawl.