Census

First census release

The first results for the 2021 census in England and Wales are now available from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The first census results, released on 28 June 2022, include data for Bromley in 5 datasets. 

A local authority comparison tool also allows for a comparison of Bromley’s results with national and regional data. 

An interactive guide can be used to provide further context and analysis of Bromley’s initial results.

The first release of census results provides population and household estimates, rounded to the nearest 100, at local authority level showing: 

• usual resident population by sex
• usual resident population by 5-year age group
• usual resident population by sex and 5-year age group
• usual resident population density
• number of households

Bromley’s population in 2021 was 330,000, increasing 6.7% from 309,400 in 2011, making Bromley the joint 6th largest London borough. 

There were 13,500 more female than male residents in Bromley, a 52 to 48% split.

23.72% of Bromley’s population were aged 19 or under and 17.65% were aged 65 or over, including 3,400 residents aged 90 and over. 

Area profiles

Custom profiles can be created from the census data for different areas, including for Bromley at borough level or for any particular ward. Access Bromley’s area profile online or create your own custom area profile.

Census data for different areas, including for Bromley and smaller areas within the borough, can also be viewed on the census map. 

Further Census releases

Topic summaries with census data grouped around particular themes has been release by ONS, which includes information about Bromley’s results. This includes:

• Demography and migration
• UK armed forces veterans
• Ethnic group, national identity, language and religion
• Labour market and travel to work
• Housing
• Sexual orientation and gender identity
• Education
• Health, disability and unpaid care

Data at ward-level can also be accessed from ONS on many of these topics, as found on their website.

Remaining census results for Bromley and nationally will be released by and available from ONS at www.census.gov.uk.

What is the census?

The census is a collection of questions about you and the members of your household. The Office of National Statistics (ONS) carry out this once in a decade survey, on behalf of central government to measure the population and demographic statistics of all households across the UK. It provides the most accurate description of the UK population and who we are; out gender, age, race, religion, and where we live. It’s the most comprehensive survey about our society as a whole.

Why is the census important?

The census provides national and local government with a comprehensive overview of the people that they represent. In Bromley, the census data provides help in deciding on the planning and funding of different services, from schools, hospitals, and housing, to local support groups and charities. 

Census Day was 21 March 2021 and the census only comes around once every 10 years, so the next census will not be until 2031.

From the 2011 census:

• There were 309,392 people recorded in Bromley, making us the 6th most populous London borough
• 120,153 people were married
• Over 73,000 people worked full-time, with 41,000 people both living and working in Bromley
• 2,190 of you cycled to work
• 25,213 Bromley residents were small employers and own account workers
• 20,095 were under 5 years old, whilst 2,729 were over the age of 90