What do the latest statistics say?
The most precise and recent figures for the UK's population come from a combination of the decennial census and annual mid-year estimates published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). While a precise 'over 60' figure for the entire UK in the latest mid-year estimates is not readily available, data from the 2021 Census and projections for 2024 offer a very clear picture of the demographic shift.
- 2021 Census (England and Wales): The 2021 census found that 24.4% of the population of England and Wales was aged 60 years and over. This represents a significant portion of the population and forms a strong baseline for understanding the broader UK trend.
- 2024 Mid-Year Estimates (UK-wide): Statistics for 2024 estimated that 19.5% of the total UK population was aged 65 years and over. While not exactly the same age bracket, this data point reinforces the high proportion of older people within the UK's overall demographic profile. Given that the 60-64 age group is substantial (Statista reported over 4.1 million people aged 60-64 in the UK in 2023), the figure for 'over 60s' would be significantly higher than 19.5%.
The long-term trend of an ageing UK population
The UK's population has been steadily getting older for decades, and this trend is projected to continue well into the future. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:
- Increased life expectancy: Modern medicine, improved living standards, and public health initiatives have led to people living longer than ever before. For example, between 1981 and 2021, the number of people aged 65 and over increased by 52% in England.
- Falling birth rates: Fertility rates have generally been in decline. In 2022, the ONS projected a long-term total fertility rate of 1.45 children per woman.
- The 'Baby Boomer' generation: The post-World War II baby boom resulted in a large cohort of people who are now entering older age groups, creating a bulge in the population pyramid at the top end.
This demographic shift is not uniform across the country. Rural and coastal areas, for example, tend to have older populations than major urban centres like London, where younger migrants are more prevalent. This creates a varied regional picture for policy-makers addressing issues related to ageing.
Implications of an ageing population
The rising proportion of older people in the UK has wide-ranging consequences for society and the economy, prompting ongoing debate and policy responses. These include considerations for pensions, social care, housing, and the workforce.
- Healthcare and Social Care: As the proportion of older people grows, so does the demand for healthcare services, especially those catering to long-term conditions. The number of people aged 85 and over is projected to almost double in England and Wales in the next 25 years.
- Pensions and Public Finances: An increasing number of people are retiring, while the working-age population supports them. This raises concerns about the affordability of state pensions and the burden on public finances.
- Housing: The needs of an older population, such as adapting homes for accessibility, create new challenges for the housing market. Furthermore, the concentration of older people in certain regions affects local housing stock.
- Economic Contribution: The older population is not a homogenous group. Many are still economically active, volunteer, and contribute to society in various ways. Their collective spending power, often referred to as the 'silver pound,' is also a significant economic factor.
Comparison Table: Older Population Data Sources
| Feature | ONS 2021 Census (England & Wales) | Statista UK Mid-2024 Projections | ONS UK Mid-2022 Projections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Group Measured | 60 and over | 65 and over | 65 and over |
| Percentage of Population | 24.4% (of E&W population) | 19.5% (of UK population) | 19% (of UK population) |
| Geographic Area | England and Wales | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Date of Data | 2021 | 2024 | 2022 |
| Purpose | Comprehensive demographic snapshot | Annual update and projection | Long-term projection and planning |
Conclusion
The question of what percent of the UK is over 60 reveals a demographic reality of an ageing society. Recent figures, including the 2021 Census showing 24.4% of England and Wales were 60 or older and 2024 projections suggesting 19.5% of the UK is over 65, confirm this long-term trend. As people live longer and birth rates decline, the age structure of the UK continues to shift, bringing both opportunities and challenges. Addressing the needs of an older population requires careful planning in areas like healthcare, housing, and public finance. The demographic landscape will continue to evolve, making regular updates from sources like the Office for National Statistics crucial for both public policy and general understanding.
How projections influence policy decisions
Beyond simply understanding the current state of the population, projections are a vital tool for government planning. By analysing trends, the ONS can help predict future needs for healthcare, social care, and pension provision. These forward-looking analyses are crucial for setting long-term policy goals and allocating resources effectively. For instance, the expected rise in the 85+ population informs the future demand for specialist health and social care services. Meanwhile, the UK's pension system has had to adapt to accommodate longer lifespans, with the state pension age steadily rising in recent years.
Projections also highlight regional variations, helping to ensure that local authorities can prepare for their specific demographic challenges. For example, areas with a higher-than-average elderly population, such as many rural and coastal regions, require different resources and strategies compared to more urban centres like London, which have a younger population profile. This tailored approach is essential for providing effective and equitable public services across the country. More information on this can be found on the Office for National Statistics website.
Economic and social contributions of older people
It is important to recognise the immense contribution of the older population, which is often a source of significant economic and social capital. Contrary to outdated stereotypes, many older people remain active in the workforce, continue to engage in education, and play a crucial role in society through volunteering and family support. The rise of the 'silver economy' also represents a growth area for businesses and services tailored to the needs and preferences of older consumers. Ultimately, understanding the dynamics of the UK's ageing population is key to building a society that supports and values people of all ages.
Regional variations in the older population
While national figures provide an overview, the picture of an ageing population varies significantly by region. Data for England from the Centre for Ageing Better shows that in 2025, the South West of England has the highest percentage of people aged 65 and over (23%), while London has the lowest (12%). This contrast is driven by different migration patterns; younger people tend to move to urban centres for work, while older people are more concentrated in rural and coastal areas. These regional differences in age profile have profound implications for local policy and service provision.
For example, local councils in the South West must place a greater emphasis on providing healthcare and social services for the elderly, while also considering how to attract and retain younger families to maintain a balanced demographic. In contrast, urban areas like London face different pressures, such as higher demand for housing and infrastructure to support a younger, growing population, while still needing to address the needs of their older residents. This highlights the complexity of managing a diverse population and the need for region-specific strategies to address the challenges and opportunities presented by an ageing society.
