Stakes is a quiet, family-friendly residential area on the south coast, where low crime rates and good schools are the standout features. Purbrook Infant School's improved Ofsted rating sits alongside other well-regarded options nearby, including Morelands Primary and Purbrook Park School, giving families a strong choice of education without having to travel far. Crime across the area runs well below the national average and continues to fall year on year, adding to its appeal as a settled place to put down roots. Housing here is some of the more affordable in the wider Havant and Waterlooville area. Terraced homes average around £277,500, with flats considerably cheaper at £131,400, and rents stay noticeably lower than in nearby Winchester. Neighbouring areas like Leigh Park Hermitage and Purbrook offer similarly good value, particularly for flats, while Southwick and Wickham command higher prices for houses. This makes Stakes and its surrounding wards a sensible choice for buyers and tenants who want more space for their money. Day-to-day life here leans on the car, as public transport is limited, though the A3(M) provides quick access to Portsmouth and beyond. Local amenities cover the basics well, with shops, pharmacies, parks and coffee shops close by, while bigger supermarkets and a wider choice of restaurants sit just outside the immediate area. The mild south coast climate, good air quality, and steadily improving healthcare access (with several GP surgeries and dentists within easy reach) round out a picture of a grounded, practical suburb suited to families and commuters who prioritise schools, safety and value over fast rail links.