Previous census data

The census only happens every 10 years and counts every person and household in England and Wales.

Last updated:
22 September 2020

Overview

The last census was held in 2011. The information we collect in the census helps plan and fund public services in your local area community. These include areas like transport, education and healthcare.

2011 Census

The 2011 Census was held on 27 March 2011 and the population of England and Wales on Census Day that year was 56,075,912. You can view 2011 Census data from the ONS website.

2001 and earlier censuses

The 2001 Census was held on 29 April 2001 and celebrated 200 years of census taking in England and Wales. You can access 2001 Census data and earlier from the ONS website.

You can also view historical censuses from 1841 to 1911 from the National Archives website.

UK census data

The ONS disseminated census statistics for the UK via its UK censuses data webpage.

All census data

You can access all census information going back to 1981 from the Nomis website.

Accessing previous census data from different places

Here you can see other places where you can access 2011 and historical census information. The ONS is not responsible for the content of external sites and sources.

The census in Scotland and Northern Ireland

At the ONS, we’re responsible for planning and running the census for England and Wales. You can find out about previous data collected by National Records of Scotland and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency via their own websites.

More information

If you want more information about previous census data then you can email us at census.customerservices@ons.gov.uk with your queries.