Census 2021

The Census is a count of all people and households in the UK taken every 10 years. It is the most complete source of information about the population available and shows how our country is changing over time. 

The last Census took place on 21 March 2021. 

The responsible body for the Census in England and Wales is the Office for National Statistics (ONS). 

Why is the Census important?

The Census is a count of all people and households in the country and is conducted every 10 years. Every household must, by law, complete a census questionnaire and it is therefore a rich data source providing a detailed snapshot of the population and local characteristics. In comparison with data from previous censuses, it also enables us to tracks changes in society over time.

The Census asks people about subjects such as work, health, housing, ethnic background, education and marital status.  The responses build a picture of the nation, which helps central and local government, health authorities, businesses, voluntary sector organisations and communities to target resources and plan for years to come.

Census 2021 results

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) released the first results from the Census on the 28 June 2022. Results are being published in phases and the ONS aims to release all the main results within two years of the census.

How the population changed in the Dover District

Please see our summary of how the population changed in the Dover District between 2011 and 2021.

This summary covers population and household estimates, population change between 2011 and 2021, population density, and population changes by age group. 

How life has changed in the Dover District

Please see our summary of how life has changed in the Dover District between 2011 and 2021.

This summary covers population growth, aging population, country of birth, religion, ethnic groups, national identity, health, disability, unpaid care, legal partnership status, households without children, housing, employment, and working hours. 

Local Area Profiles 

We have created local area profiles for the Dover District using the ONS Build a custom area profile tool. This section includes a Dover District Profile, Ward Profiles, and Town & Parish Profiles.

2021 Census Area Profile

This ONS (Nomis) 2021 Census Area Profile - Dover Local Authority covers the characteristics of people and households in the district  Figures are sourced from the 2021 census.

Themed Profiles

• Profile of the population: Broken down by ward - coming soon.
• Profile of households and housing: Broken down by ward - coming soon.
• Profile of employment and economic activity: Broken down by ward - coming soon.
• UK armed forces veterans in the Dover District. 

Related links

• The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has produced an interactive map to find out what people's lives are like across England and Wales: Census maps - Office for National Statistics.   
• The ONS has also produced an interactive tool which allows users to compare the 2011 and 2021 census results in different local authority areas in England and Wales: How your area has changed in ten years - Office for National Statistics. 
• A new tool which allows users to build their own profile for local areas in England and Wales using Census 2021 data is now available. If it it doesn't have the geography you want, you can draw your own on the map: Build a custom area profile - Office for National Statistics.
• Test your knowledge of where you live with the ONS Census quiz: How well do you know your area? - Office for National Statistics. 

Supporting information

• Census 2021 topic summaries

What topic summary data for Census 2021 will be available and how to view them.

• Census 2021 dictionary

Definitions, variables and classifications to help when using Census 2021 data.

• Quality and methodology information for Census 2021

Details the strengths, limitations, uses, users and methods for Census 2021, England and Wales.

Further information

For further information on the Census, please visit census.gov.uk.