The Vale of Glamorgan spans about 328 km² (127 sq mi) in Wales.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in The Vale of Glamorgan
The Vale of Glamorgan is a county borough in south Wales, stretching along the Bristol Channel coast and inland across gently rolling countryside. The landscape is defined by fertile farmland, low cliffs and coastal plains, giving the area a settled and open character. Its position close to Cardiff has influenced development, while much of the Vale retains a strong rural identity.
The county includes towns such as Barry, Penarth, Cowbridge and Llantwit Major, each serving surrounding communities in different ways. Barry developed as a major port and later as a residential and commercial centre, while smaller towns and villages remain closely tied to agriculture and local services. The mix of coastal and inland settlements creates a varied pattern of everyday life across the area.
The Vale of Glamorgan benefits from access to coastline, countryside and green space, with coastal paths and open land supporting walking and outdoor activity. Farming continues to play an important role alongside modern employment and commuting. Overall, the Vale offers a calm blend of coastal influence, rural landscape and community life, giving it a steady and distinctive place within south Wales.
The Vale of Glamorgan at a Glance
House Prices in The Vale of Glamorgan
The average sold price in The Vale of Glamorgan is £316,314 across 4,019 recorded sales, making it the 27th most expensive of 69 counties.
Source: HM Land Registry Price Paid Data. Figures are averages of recorded sales.
People & Demographics
Age structure
Housing tenure
Source: ONS Census 2021 and model-based income estimates.
Amenities & Getting Around
Source: NHS, National Rail and Open Charge Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in The Vale of Glamorgan?
The average sold price in The Vale of Glamorgan is around £316,314. A detached home averages £437,345, a terraced home £221,182 and a flat £176,315.
What is the population of The Vale of Glamorgan?
The Vale of Glamorgan has a population of about 131,305 people, at a density of 400 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in The Vale of Glamorgan?
The average household income in The Vale of Glamorgan is around £49,763 a year.
Largest Towns in The Vale of Glamorgan 7
Location
Elevation & Terrain
The Vale of Glamorgan stretches from 0 ft at Ogmore-by-Sea up to 394 ft at Greenway, a span of 394 ft across 129 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.
Main Towns in The Vale of Glamorgan 12
The Vale of Glamorgan has 129 towns, villages and localities in total. The main towns are shown below. You can also browse the full A to Z of every place in The Vale of Glamorgan.
Postcode Areas in The Vale of Glamorgan 1
The Vale of Glamorgan is served by 1 postcode area. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.