AL5 (Harpenden)
St. Albans (AL5) Postcode Area
Harpenden, located in Hertfordshire, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and community life. This picturesque town boasts excellent transport links to London and Luton, making it ideal for commuters. Family-friendly amenities include well-regarded schools, parks, and leisure facilities. The bustling High Street is dotted with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, while the stunning Common provides serene green spaces. Residents appreciate Harpenden’s strong sense of community, alongside its rich history and proximity to attractions like Knebworth House.
Overview
Harpenden (AL5) postcode district is located in the ceremonial county of Hertfordshire, and is part of the St. Albans postal town.
The AL5 postcode district in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, is a highly desirable area characterised by its affluent community and excellent amenities. Key statistics include an average house price of £800,000, a high proportion of 60.4% of residents being married, and a significant 38.9% of homes owned outright. The area boasts a low crime rank of 26552/32482, making it one of the safer places to live in the UK.
Settlements within AL5 include:
Amwell, Ayres End, Batford, Blackmore End, Bower Heath, Cold Harbour, East Hyde, Harpenden, Harpenden Common, Hatching Green, Kinsbourne Green, Lea Valley, Mackerye End
People and Demographics
Demographics
The population of the AL5 postcode is predominantly white, comprising 88.9% of the community, with smaller representations of Asian (5%), black (1.5%), and mixed ethnicities (3.8%). The average age of residents is 40.3, slightly younger than the UK average of 40.7. The area is also characterised by a relatively low level of deprivation, with 7.3% of households experiencing no deprivation.
Unemployment
Percentage of people in St. Albans AL5 who are classed as being unemployed at Census 2021.
An unemployment rate of 5% in Harpenden AL5 is slightly above the UK average of 4.3%, indicating a moderate level of joblessness.
While some residents may face employment challenges, the rate still suggests a functioning local economy. Efforts to boost job opportunities could further enhance community stability and support the area's long-term growth.
Diversity
Percentage of residents in the AL5 postcode region who identify as white.
With 90% of Harpenden AL5residents identifying as White, this postcode has a relatively homogenous population with some ethnic diversity.
While the majority share common backgrounds, the inclusion of different cultures brings varied experiences and enriches the community's social fabric.
Population Growth
Population growth means that the population of St. Albans AL5 is increasing by 2.5% each year.
Across the UK, (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales), the average population grown from 2023-2024 is 0.66%.
Children
Are under 18 years old
18% of St. Albans AL5 are under the age of 18 at the time of the Census 2021.
Harpenden AL5 aligns closely with the UK average of 17.4%. This indicates a balanced mix of families and other household types, with amenities catering to both children and adults.
Retired
Are enjoying retirement
17% of St. Albans AL5 are retired at the time of the Census 2021.
Harpenden AL5 aligns closely with the UK average of 16%, a mixed community of working-age individuals and retirees. Local amenities are likely to be diverse, and cater to both younger and older residents.
Census 2021 Demographics
Who lives and works in AL5?
Analysing the AL5 population's characteristics, including age distribution and cultural diversity, provides valuable insights into the composition of the community.
About
Population
Work
Property
Education
Ethnicity
Health
Deprivation
Transportation
Crime
Population
Analysing the AL5 population's characteristics, including age distribution and cultural diversity provides valuable insights into the composition of a local community.
Demographics
The population of the AL5 postcode is predominantly white, comprising 88.9% of the community, with smaller representations of Asian (5%), black (1.5%), and mixed ethnicities (3.8%). The average age of residents is 40.3, slightly younger than the UK average of 40.7. The area is also characterised by a relatively low level of deprivation, with 7.3% of households experiencing no deprivation.
Population Growth
Population growth means that the population of St. Albans AL5 is increasing by 2.5% each year.
Across the UK, (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales), the average population grown from 2023-2024 is 0.66%.
Children
of St. Albans AL5 are under the age of 18 at the time of the Census 2021.
Retired
of St. Albans AL5 are retired at the time of the Census 2021.
Gender Ratio
51% female
Gender ratio in census data means the number of males for every 100 females in a population, helping us understand the balance between men and women in a specific area.
Age Distribution
are adults
Age distribution refers to how different age groups are spread within a population, showing the number of people in each age range. This helps understand the population's structure and potential needs.
Age Distribution
"Age Distribution by 5-year bands" in the Census 2021 breaks down the population into groups based on age ranges, each spanning five years (e.g., 0-4, 5-9, 10-14, etc.). This helps to see how many people fall into each age group, providing a clear picture of the age structure in an area.
Living Arrangements
"Living Arrangements" in the Census 2021 refers to people's relationship status and how they live with others. It includes whether someone is married, in a civil partnership, cohabiting as a couple, separated, divorced, or single, and whether they live with a partner, alone, or with others.
Legal Partnership
Legal partnership status of residents in the St. Albans (AL5) district, offering insights into the diversity of relationship statuses in the area. This dataset classifies residents aged 16+ in England & Wales by their partnership status.
Gender Identity
"Gender Identity" in the Census 2021 refers to how people personally identify their gender, which may or may not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. It includes options like male, female, non-binary, or other identities, reflecting how individuals see themselves.
Postcodes
Dig even deeper into the AL5 postcode:
Click on an postal code below for more information about the area. Each postcode give you a comprehensive overview of the postcode neighbourhood, including address, demographics, crime, transport, amenities and house prices in St. Albans (AL5).
Word Cloud for AL5
We've trawled social media and the web to discover words that describe the postcode district of AL5:
Nearby Towns & Cities
AL5 Postcode area
The following towns and villages can be found close to Harpenden AL5:
St. Albans
Population 82,146
1.4 miles
A commuter city for workers in London, the centuries-old St. Albans was the first major town on the old Roman road of Watling Street. Now a historic market town, St. Albans is a popular tourist destination which enjoys a thriving culture of arts and entertainment.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Smallford
Population 316
1.9 miles
Smallford, located in Hertfordshire, is a quaint village with a strong sense of community, boasting a historic church dating back to the 12th century and beautiful countryside surroundings perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Colney Heath
Population 1,294
2.5 miles
Located in Hertfordshire, Colney Heath is a peaceful village with a strong sense of community, offering a perfect balance between countryside living and easy access to nearby amenities in St Albans and London.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
How Wood
Population 6,834
2.6 miles
Located in Hertfordshire, How Wood is a charming village with a strong sense of community, picturesque green spaces, and easy access to both the countryside and the bustling city of St Albans, making it a perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Shenley
Population 4,306
4.1 miles
Located in Hertfordshire, Shenley boasts a picturesque village feel with its quaint streets, historic buildings, and beautiful green spaces, making it a peaceful and idyllic place to call home.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Radlett
Population 8,163
4.3 miles
Located in Hertfordshire, Radlett is a charming village with a strong sense of community, beautiful green spaces, excellent schools, and convenient transport links to London, making it an ideal place for families looking for a peaceful yet well-connected place to call home.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Welham Green
Population 2,806
4.3 miles
Welham Green, located in Hertfordshire, boasts a close-knit community feel, with its quaint village setting, excellent transport links to London, and a range of local amenities that make it a desirable place to call home for families and commuters alike.
Nearest Postcode Areas:
Local Authorities
AL5 Postal Town
The AL5 postcode includes the following local authorities:
- Central Bedfordshire
- St Albans
Crime in AL5
How safe is this postcode sector?
In the AL1 postcode area, crime levels have been fluctuating in recent years. According to recent statistics, there has been a slight increase in reported crimes compared to the previous year. This has raised concerns among residents and local authorities, prompting the police to reassess their strategies and priorities in tackling crime in the area.
Key Hotspots
One of the key hotspots for crime in the AL1 postcode area is the city centre, where a high volume of both violent and property crimes have been reported. Other areas of concern include residential neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city, where burglary and anti-social behavior are prevalent.
Historical Crime Issues
Historically, the AL1 postcode area has grappled with drug-related crimes, particularly in the city centre. Gang activity and organized crime have also been persistent issues in the area, leading to spikes in violent incidents in the past. However, concerted efforts by the police and community organizations have helped to reduce these crime rates over time.
Current Policing Priorities
The local police force in the AL1 postcode area has identified several key priorities in their efforts to combat crime. These include increasing patrols in known hotspots, engaging with the community to gather intelligence, and targeting known offenders through proactive policing initiatives. Additionally, the police are working closely with local businesses and residents to improve security measures and raise awareness about crime prevention strategies.
while crime levels in the AL1 postcode area have seen some fluctuations, the police are committed to addressing these challenges and ensuring the safety and security of all residents. By working collaboratively with the community and focusing on key priorities, they aim to reduce crime rates and create a safer environment for everyone.
Sources:
1. Hertfordshire Constabulary
2. Police UK
In the AL1 postcode area, crime levels have been fluctuating in recent years. According to recent statistics, there has been a slight increase in reported crimes compared to the previous year. This has raised concerns among residents and local authorities, prompting the police to reassess their strategies and priorities in tackling crime in the area.
Key Hotspots
One of the key hotspots for crime in the AL1 postcode area is the city centre, where a high volume of both violent and property crimes have been reported. Other areas of concern include residential neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city, where burglary and anti-social behavior are prevalent.
Historical Crime Issues
Historically, the AL1 postcode area has grappled with drug-related crimes, particularly in the city centre. Gang activity and organized crime have also been persistent issues in the area, leading to spikes in violent incidents in the past. However, concerted efforts by the police and community organizations have helped to reduce these crime rates over time.
Current Policing Priorities
The local police force in the AL1 postcode area has identified several key priorities in their efforts to combat crime. These include increasing patrols in known hotspots, engaging with the community to gather intelligence, and targeting known offenders through proactive policing initiatives. Additionally, the police are working closely with local businesses and residents to improve security measures and raise awareness about crime prevention strategies.
while crime levels in the AL1 postcode area have seen some fluctuations, the police are committed to addressing these challenges and ensuring the safety and security of all residents. By working collaboratively with the community and focusing on key priorities, they aim to reduce crime rates and create a safer environment for everyone.
Sources: 1. Hertfordshire Constabulary 2. Police UKEducation
Highest Rated Schools in AL5
As rated by Ofsted
- St Dominic Catholic Primary School
St Dominic Catholic Primary School, HARPENDEN, AL5 1PF
Outstanding - The Grove Infant and Nursery School
Dark Lane, Harpenden, AL5 1QD
Outstanding - High Beeches Primary School
Aldwickbury Crescent, Harpenden, AL5 5SD
Outstanding - Roundwood Park School
Roundwood Park, Harpenden, AL5 3AE
Outstanding - Wood End School
Yeomans Avenue, Harpenden, AL5 3EF
Outstanding - Crabtree Junior School
Crabtree Lane, Harpenden, AL5 5PU
Outstanding - Sir John Lawes School
Manland Way, Harpenden, AL5 4QP
Outstanding - St George's School
Sun Lane, Harpenden, AL5 4TD
Outstanding - The Grove Junior School
Dark Lane, Harpenden, AL5 1QB
Good - St Nicholas CofE VA Primary School
Church Green, Harpenden, AL5 2TP
Good
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