Merthyr Tydfil on the map

Merthyr Tydfil built-up area

Built-up area10.9 km² (4.2 sq mi)

Location in Merthyr TydfilMerthyr Tydfil sits where the marker shows within the county.

48,799
Population
20,341
Households
12
Schools nearby
£40,797
Avg. household income
1,047
Businesses
483
People per km²
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About Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil is a town located in the county of the same name in Wales. It is situated at the confluence of the River Taff and the River Dare, offering a scenic backdrop to the town. The area has a rich industrial heritage, particularly known for its historical significance in the coal mining industry during the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore various sites that reflect this industrial past, including the Cyfarthfa Castle and the Merthyr Tydfil Heritage Centre.

The town also serves as a gateway to the Brecon Beacons National Park, making it a convenient starting point for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Merthyr Tydfil has a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks, catering to both residents and visitors. The local community is active, with events and activities that promote engagement and connection among its members.

School Ratings in Merthyr Tydfil

Families in Merthyr Tydfil have access to 52 local schools.

House Prices in Merthyr Tydfil

Homes sell for an average of £150K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £102K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Merthyr Tydfil

Crime in the area is higher than the national average. Shoplifting is the leading concern across Merthyr Tydfil, with 72 incidents recorded in April 2026.

Healthcare in Merthyr Tydfil

There are 8 GP surgeries within three miles of Merthyr Tydfil, the nearest being Substance Misuse Support (0.4 miles away).

Property Prices 5,354 sales

Average Price £150K
£100 , £14.86M
Detached £265K 849
Semi £156K 1,110
Terraced £102K 2,981
Flat £80K 98

Household Income in Merthyr Tydfil ONS 2023

The average total household income in Merthyr Tydfil is approximately £40,797 a year before tax, 26% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £32,086. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Merthyr Tydfil £40,797
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £32,086.

Businesses in Merthyr Tydfil ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,047 active businesses based in Merthyr Tydfil, around 21 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 86% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 24 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,047 Total businesses
21 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 86%
Small, 10-49 10%
Medium, 50-249 2%
Large, 250+ 2%

Crime in Merthyr Tydfil 393 crimes · April 2026

High Crime Area

Crime figures for Merthyr Tydfil are higher than the England and Wales average, with violence & sexual offences the most prevalent offence recorded. Urban density and footfall contribute to elevated reporting in areas like this. Ongoing investment in policing and community safety programmes aims to improve the picture.

Violence & Sexual Offences 134
Shoplifting 72
Anti-Social Behaviour 39
Public Order 38
Other Theft 27
Criminal Damage & Arson 26
Vehicle Crime 17
Burglary 11
Other Crime 11
Drugs 9
Weapons 5
Robbery 2
Bicycle Theft 1
Theft from Person 1
Local Policing
South Wales Town (Merthyr) Visit force website →
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

Merthyr Tydfil Train Station 0.4 miles
Pentre-Bach Train Station 1.7 miles
Troed-Y-Rhiw Train Station 2.8 miles
Rhymney Train Station 3.5 miles
Cwmbach Train Station 3.8 miles
Pontlottyn Train Station 3.9 miles

Location

Local Government

District Merthyr Tydfil
Ward Cyfarthfa
Constituency Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney
Parish Cyfarthfa

Home Ownership in Merthyr Tydfil

Of the 21,447 households in and around Merthyr Tydfil, 61% are owned, 24% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is in line with the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 61% Social rented 24% Private rented 16%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Merthyr Tydfil.

Frequently Asked Questions about Merthyr Tydfil

What is the population of Merthyr Tydfil?
Merthyr Tydfil has a population of approximately 48,799 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Merthyr Tydfil?
The average property in and around Merthyr Tydfil sold for about £150,208, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 57% below the England and Wales average of £349,091.
What postcodes cover Merthyr Tydfil?
Merthyr Tydfil is covered by the CF47, CF48 postcode districts.
How many schools are there in Merthyr Tydfil?
There are 12 schools within easy reach of Merthyr Tydfil, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Merthyr Tydfil?
The nearest railway station to Merthyr Tydfil is Merthyr Tydfil Train Station, about 0.4 miles away.