Demographic

Understand Your Audience

Population

• Total Population: Approximately 8,000 residents.
• Age Distribution: A diverse mix of age groups, with a significant proportion of retirees, families, and working-age adults.
  • Under 18: Around 18%
  • 18-39: Approximately 22%
  • 40-59: About 28%
  • 60 and above: Around 32%

Housing

• Household Composition: A mix of detached houses, bungalows, and some flats, reflecting the coastal and suburban nature of the area. Many homes are owner-occupied, with a significant number of properties owned outright.
• Ownership: High home ownership rates, indicative of the established and stable community.
• Average House Prices: Higher than the national average, reflecting the desirability of the coastal location.

Employment and Income

• Employment Status:
  • Employed: Predominantly in sectors such as retail, healthcare, tourism, and local businesses.
  • Self-employed: A notable number of residents run small local businesses or work from home.
  • Retired: A significant part of the population, contributing to community activities and local volunteer work.
• Average Income: Varied, with a mix of professional salaries, business incomes, and retirement pensions.

Education

• Education Levels: A diverse range of educational attainment, with many residents having completed secondary education and a significant portion holding higher education degrees.
• Schools: Highcliffe West, Friars Cliff, and Mudeford are served by several primary and secondary schools, as well as further education institutions in nearby areas.

Ethnicity and Religion

• Ethnicity: Predominantly White British, with growing representation from various ethnic backgrounds.
• Religion: Mainly Christian, with a variety of other religious affiliations reflecting the broader diversity of the community.

Community and Lifestyle

• Community Engagement: High levels of community engagement, supported by numerous local clubs, societies, and volunteer groups.
• Lifestyle: A vibrant lifestyle with a mix of coastal and suburban conveniences, promoting a balanced and active way of life.

Health and Wellbeing

• Health Services: Excellent access to healthcare facilities, including local GP practices, dental clinics, and proximity to hospitals in nearby towns.
• Wellbeing: High quality of life with an emphasis on health and wellbeing, supported by the area's natural beauty, recreational facilities, and community activities.

Local Insights

Did You Know?

An interesting fact about Highcliffe, Mudeford, and Chewton is their connection to the historic Highcliffe Castle. Built in the 1830s by Lord Stuart de Rothesay, Highcliffe Castle is a magnificent Grade I listed building that boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture. The castle is constructed from medieval stonework and stained glass salvaged from French chateaux, giving it a unique and storied appearance. Over the years, Highcliffe Castle has hosted many notable guests, including royalty and celebrities, and it even played a role during World War II as a location for evacuated schoolchildren and military operations. Today, the castle and its beautiful grounds are open to the public, serving as a popular venue for weddings, events, and cultural activities, and offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich historical heritage.