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Census 2021

The Census took place on Sunday 21 March 2021.

It was the first digital Census, run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.

There were 59, 597, 300 people living in England and Wales on 21 March 2021, the day of the latest census. This is over 3.5 million (6.3%) more than in 2011. Notably, the population of England and Wales is the largest ever recorded.

The largest population increase was in the East of England, which grew by around 8.3% or 488,000 more residents.

Brentwood statistics and information for 2021

  • Brentwood ranked 289th for total population out of 309 local authority areas in England, maintaining the same position it held a decade ago
  • The population size has increased by 4.6%, from 73,600 in 2011 to 77,000
  • This figure is lower than the overall increase for England (6.6%), where the population grew by nearly 3.5 million to 56,489,800
  • Brentwood’s population increase is lower than the increase for the East of England (8.3%)
  • Brentwood is the 23rd least densely populated of the East of England’s 45 local authority areas, with around four people living on each football pitch-sized area of land
  • There has been an increase of 10.3% in people aged 65 years and over
  • There has been an increase of 2.4% in people aged 15 to 64 years
  • There has been an increase of 6.6% in children aged under 15 years

Census new data

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has published the next phase of Census 2021 outputs for England and Wales. Demography and migration: Census 2021 in England and Wales looks at topics including migration, country of birth and household size and structure.

ONS has also published Census maps to find out what people’s lives are like across England and Wales. This digital content allows you to explore Census 2021 data for different topics down to a local authority and neighbourhood level.

The remaining topic summaries will be published in a rolling programme throughout November, December and early 2023.

Why is the Census important?

The Census gives the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. The information you give helps decide how services are planned and funded in your local area, such as doctors' surgeries, housing, or new bus routes. It asks questions about you and your household to build a picture of all of us. There's no other survey that gives as much information about our society and future needs. Charities also use census information to help get the funding they need. Businesses use it to decide where to set up, which creates job opportunities.

For more information or questions about the Census, visit Census.

It is a legal obligation to complete the Census. If you don't, you could face prosecution, a fine of up to £1000 and a criminal record.

2011 Census results

The 2011 Census took place on 27 March 2011. In England and Wales, the 2011 Census was organised and carried out by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

A summary of the results for Brentwood is as follows:

  • The population estimate for Brentwood Borough was 73,600. This is an increase from the 2001 Census population of 68,426. 
  • To view the population of Brentwood Borough by five-year age band, and see how this compares to other areas of the country, you can visit 2011 Census interactive and choose Brentwood from the list of areas.
  • There were an estimated 30,600 occupied households in Brentwood Borough, compared to 28,767 in 2001.

Find out more about the 2011 Census by visiting ONS 2011 Census.