Population Estimates

The size of the population is estimated on an annual basis, using 30th June (mid-year) as a reference point. Following the publication of the mid-year population estimates for Scotland, its councils and health boards, a range of other population statistics are released, including estimates for small areas (known as data zones) and other geographies (including wards, parliamentary constituencies, settlements and localities, urban rural and deprived areas). Population estimates are also available for various sub-groups including centenarians and by country of birth and nationality.

Publications

Mid-Year Population Estimates
The latest annual mid-year population estimates for Scotland and its constituent NHS board and council areas. This section also includes historical data back to 1982 and a time series dataset back to 1855.

Centenarians (and people aged 90 and over) Population Estimates
The latest annual mid-year estimates of persons aged 90 and over at Scotland and Sub-national levels.

2011 Data Zone based Special Area Population Estimates 
The latest annual mid-year Small Area Population Estimates and Special Area Population Estimates based on the 2011 Data Zone boundaries. This section currently includes data back to mid-2001.

2001 Data Zone based Special Area Population Estimates
The annual mid-year Small Area Population Estimates and special area population estimates based on the 2001 Data Zone boundaries. This section included historical data back to 1996.

Settlements and Localities
This section contains the biennial mid-year population estimates for Settlements and Localities. 

Population by Country of Birth and Nationality
Estimates of the population by Country of Birth and Nationality from the Annual Population Survey (APS).

Marital Status Population Estimates Scotland
This publication contains the estimated resident population by age, sex and legal marital status for Scotland for mid-2008, and for mid-2001 to mid-2007.

Contact Us

Please get in touch if you need any further information, or have any suggestions for improvement.

Statisitcs Customer Services telephone: (0131) 314 4299
E-mail: statisticscustomerservices@nrscotland.gov.uk

Lead Statistician: Denise Patrick