Torfaen spans about 125 km² (48 sq mi) in Wales.
Outline from Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey data, Open Government Licence v3.0.
Living in Torfaen
Torfaen is a county borough in south east Wales, located within the South Wales Valleys and shaped by a mix of upland landscapes and urban development. The area includes hills, river valleys and open countryside, alongside towns that grew through industry and later expansion. This setting gives Torfaen a varied character, balancing natural surroundings with established communities.
The county includes towns such as Cwmbran, Pontypool and Blaenavon, each contributing to local life in different ways. Cwmbran was developed as a new town to support housing and employment, while Pontypool has a longer history as a market and industrial centre. Blaenavon is particularly noted for its industrial heritage, reflecting the area’s past in iron and coal production.
Torfaen benefits from access to green space, walking routes and surrounding hills, making outdoor activity part of everyday life for many residents. Regeneration and development continue alongside long standing neighbourhoods, supporting modern services and employment. Overall, Torfaen offers a calm mix of valley landscape, industrial history and everyday community life, giving it a grounded and evolving character within south east Wales.
Torfaen at a Glance
House Prices in Torfaen
The average sold price in Torfaen is £218,167 across 2,455 recorded sales, making it the 56th 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 Torfaen?
The average sold price in Torfaen is around £218,167. A detached home averages £309,976, a terraced home £143,642 and a flat £92,816.
What is the population of Torfaen?
Torfaen has a population of about 92,056 people, at a density of 736 per square kilometre.
What is the average income in Torfaen?
The average household income in Torfaen is around £42,817 a year.
Largest Towns in Torfaen 3
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Torfaen stretches from 144 ft at Llantarnam up to 1,407 ft at Garn-yr-erw, a span of 1,263 ft across 61 towns and villages. This reflects dramatic upland terrain, with a substantial climb from the lowest to the highest places.
Main Towns in Torfaen 48
Torfaen has 61 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 Torfaen.
Postcode Areas in Torfaen 1
Torfaen is served by 1 postcode area. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.