Torquay
Torquay Harbour, with boats moored in the enclosed harbour
Torquay (TQ) Postcode Area
Torquay: Elegant seaside resort, palm-lined promenade, sandy beaches, vibrant marina, and a hub for watersports and coastal walks. A town with a Mediterranean feel on the English Riviera in Devon.
Torquay Postcode Area includes:
Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Salcombe, Totnes, South Brent, Buckfastleigh, Newton Abbot, Teignmouth.
Discover everything you need to know about Torquay with PostcodeArea. Scroll down to uncover demographics, property prices, crime stats, amenities and more.
Most Desirable Postcodes
Here are the top 10 most desirable postcode areas in Torquay (TQ), based on a unique scoring system that weighs key factors like safety, schools, diversity, and affordability.
Whether you're a renter, homebuyer, or property investor, this tool lets you customise the score to focus on what matters most to you, helping you make smarter, data-driven decisions.
How are Desirability Scores calculated?
Our custom algorithm calculates a unique "Desirability Score" for any UK postcode by analysing a range of factors - including Census 2021 data, third-party insights, and socio-economic knowledge, to provide a tailored rating.
Explain more
Primary Industries
What fuels the local Torquay economy? These four industries are the most prevalent in the area, offering a peek into what's happening behind the scenes.
Construction
Torquay has a strong presence of construction businesses, which usually means there's a lot of building going on - whether it's new homes, commercial spaces, or infrastructure. This can be a good sign that the Torquay area is growing and attracting investment. It could also mean there's a strong local economy, with plenty of work available for builders and tradespeople. On the flip side, it might suggest there's a fair bit of property in need of repair or updating. Either way, it tells you the Torquay area is pretty active and could be on the up.
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing
The prevalance of agricultural industries (including forestry and fishing) in Torquay suggests this is a lively and creative postcode sector. These kinds of businesses tend to pop up in areas that are known for their cultural scene, where people value things like theatres, galleries, music venues, and independent cinemas. It could mean the area attracts a mix of creatives, young professionals, and tourists, making it a vibrant and potentially trendy spot. This could also be a sign of a more laid-back, community-focused vibe, with lots of local events and activities in and around Torquay. It might push property prices up if the area becomes particularly popular, but it's also a good indicator of a strong local identity and a thriving social scene.
Professional & Scientific
Torquay has a large proportion of professional and scientific businesses, which makes it a hub for specialised industries like law firms, consulting agencies, tech companies, or research labs. This suggests a high level of expertise and innovation, attracting professionals such as engineers, scientists, lawyers, and consultants. The Torquay area might have a more polished, business-focused atmosphere, with modern offices and co-working spaces. It's often well-connected, with good transport links and amenities to support a skilled workforce. Property prices could be higher, as these areas tend to attract well-paid professionals. It might not be the most vibrant or social place, but it will have a reputation for being smart, efficient, and future-focused.
Accommodation & Food
When postcode areas have a lot of accommodation and food businesses, areas like Torquay are a popular spot for visitors or tourists, or it could be a bustling community with a strong local hospitality scene. You'd expect to find hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, cafes, and maybe a few pubs or bars, creating a vibrant atmosphere, especially during peak seasons or weekends. It's the kind of area where people come to relax, socialise, or enjoy a good meal out, making it feel welcoming and lively. This could boost property demand if it's a desirable place to live or visit, but it might also mean the area gets busier, especially if Torquay is a tourist hotspot. It gives the impression of a friendly, service-oriented place where people come to enjoy themselves.
Data showing the activity, size and location is from the Inter Departmental Business Register 2024, produced by the ONS.
Key Statistics
Torquay TQ, part of the ceremonial county of Devon in England, presents a substantial geographical area with 14 outward codes (the first half of a postcode, e.g. TQ 1AA). Its population stands at 299,472 individuals, reflecting a density of 1,867 people per square kilometre. The average household income here is £42,698 , which is 22.0% higher than the average UK median household income (£35,000), indicating a stable economic profile within the region.
Postcode Area
Torquay
Total Outward Codes
Postcodes
Population
People
Population Density
People/km2
Average Income
Per household
What's Torquay like to live and work in?
Torquay Harbour, with boats moored in the enclosed harbour
Adobe Stock
Torquay, found on the English Riviera in Devon, is a coastal town with a population of around 65,000. Renowned for its stunning beaches, palm-lined promenades, and mild climate, Torquay is a popular destination for both residents and tourists.
The town has strong transport connections, including a railway station with direct services to London and other major cities, and convenient access to the A380 and nearby Exeter Airport.
Torquay's community is a mix of families, retirees, and professionals, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
The town offers a variety of amenities, including shopping districts, a range of dining options, and cultural attractions like the Princess Theatre and Torre Abbey. Education is well-catered for with several respected schools in the area.
This page contains a list of postcode districts for Torquay area. Select a postcode to see the map location, demographics, house prices, local information, tourist guides and statistics:
Torquay (TQ) Postcode Districts
House Prices in Torquay
How are property price trends?
The ONS (Office for National Statistics) regularly tracks and records average house prices and rents in this area (E06000027). Note that these estimates are based on local authority rather than postcode area. For more information about current house prices, choose an individual postcode below.
Devon
The wider county
Along with its neighbor Cornwall, Devon seems to be the one region of the UK seemingly designed to appeal to tourists and holidaymakers. Quite apart from the (ever so slightly) Mediterranean climate, Devon has some of Europe's best coastline (for sheer variety) and a magnificent landscape of rolling farmland and fields, steep craggy hills, wild and awe-inspiring moorland as well as the obligatory white sandy beaches and waves made for surfing.
In addition it offers history buffs a wealth of sites from country houses and gardens to dramatic castles and from stately homes to ancient monuments.
Read more about Devon
Local Transport
Transport Options in the TQ Postal Area
Welcome to the TQ postal area, a charming region in the South West of England. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the scenic surroundings, transport here is versatile and convenient.
Rail
The TQ area is well-served by several railway stations, including Totnes, Newton Abbot, and Torquay. Regular services run to major cities, such as Exeter, Plymouth, and even London Paddington, ensuring easy connectivity for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Air
For international and domestic flights, Exeter Airport is the closest hub, approximately a 30-minute drive away. It offers a range of flights to various UK and European destinations, making travel abroad straightforward.
Commuting by Car
The region's roads, including the A38 and A380, provide essential links to the M5 motorway, ensuring smooth journeys to Exeter, Plymouth and beyond. Car travel is a convenient option for those who prefer driving, with picturesque routes and essential amenities along the way.
Buses
Local and regional buses are frequent and reliable, offering regular services within the TQ area and to surrounding towns and cities. Companies like Stagecoach and local operators ensure that you can navigate the area with ease.
Train Stations
The following railway stations are within the TQ postcode region:
Newton Abbot Railway Station
Paignton Railway Station
Teignmouth Railway Station
Torquay Railway Station
Torre Railway Station
Totnes Railway Station
Local Authorities
TQ Postcode area
Local Authorities are government organisations responsible for providing local services and facilities such as education, housing, and social services within a specific area. The TQ postcode area includes the following local authorities:
South Hams
South Hams District Council prioritises sustainable development and community welfare, delivering high-quality public services to enhance the quality of life for residents in this picturesque area.
Teignbridge
Teignbridge District Council supports its diverse communities through strategic planning and development, ensuring a balanced approach to economic growth and environmental preservation within the district.
Torbay
Torbay Council focuses on urban regeneration and community well-being, providing comprehensive public services to support economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents.
GDP (Gross Domestic Product)
Economic Output
GDP (Gross Domestic Product) measures the total economic output of a country, region, or Local Authority. It tells us how much money is being made within a particular area. This includes everything from a business selling cars or consumers getting their hair cut.
This list of the Local Authorities within the Torquay (TQ) postcode town gives us a snapshot of how much money is being generated at current market prices, based on what people are spending and earning. It's an important way to understand the economic health and activity levels across the UK.
For comparison purposes, we've included the top and bottom two local authorities across the UK in terms of GDP.
Local Authority
GDP (£)
GDP trends over time
The graph below shows the total GDP values for all Local Authorities within the Torquay (TQ) area:
When we talk about GDP at current market prices, we're looking at the total value of all goods and services produced in an area, but the key bit here is "current market prices." This means it includes the value of goods and services as they're bought and sold right now, without adjusting for inflation or changes in prices over time.
So, for example a figure of £2,013 GDP means that, on average, each person within an area contributes this amount to the UK economy each year.
Republished from the ONS regional gross domestic product: local authorities under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Latest available data: April 2022.
Education
Highest Rated Schools in TQ
As rated by Ofsted
- Blackpool Church of England Primary School
Liverton, Newton Abbot, TQ12 6JB
Primary School (4-11)Outstanding - The Greater Horseshoe School
Little Bovey Lane, Devon, TQ12 6RH
Secondary School (8-18)Outstanding - Torquay Girls Grammar School
30 Shiphay Lane, Torquay, TQ2 7DY
Secondary School (11-18)Outstanding - Stokenham Area Primary School
Stokenham, Kingsbridge, TQ7 2SJ
Primary School (4-11)Outstanding - The Spires College
Westlands Lane, Torquay, TQ1 3PE
Secondary School (11-18)Good - Rydon Primary School
Rydon Road, Newton Abbot, TQ12 3LP
Primary School (4-11)Good - Torquay Boys' Grammar School
Shiphay Manor Drive, Torquay, TQ2 7EL
Secondary School (11-18)Good - Torre Church of England Academy
Barton Road, TORQUAY, TQ1 4DN
Primary School (3-11)Good - Collaton St Mary Church of England Primary School
Blagdon Road, Paignton, TQ3 3YA
Primary School (4-11)Good - Galmpton Church of England Primary School
Greenway Road, Brixham, TQ5 0LT
Primary School (4-11)Good
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