The East of England has recorded the highest population growth of any English region or Wales over the past decade, according to the 2021 census results released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The region's population increased by approximately 488,000 people, reaching 6.3 million, an 8.3% rise since the 2011 census.
The census, conducted every ten years, provides a detailed snapshot of society by gathering information on individuals, households, and homes. Across England and Wales, the population grew by 3.5 million, a 6.3% increase over the same period.
Several local authority areas in the East of England saw particularly large population increases. Bedford recorded a 17.7% rise (from 157,479 to 185,300), the third highest in England and Wales. Cambridge saw a 17.6% increase (123,867 to 145,700), the fifth highest, while Peterborough grew by 17.5% (183,631 to 215,700). Central Bedfordshire (15.7%), Milton Keynes (15.3%), Uttlesford in Essex (14.9%), and South Norfolk (14.4%) also experienced significant growth.
The census also highlighted demographic trends. North Norfolk had the highest proportion of residents aged 65 and over at 33.4%, while Tendring in Essex ranked sixth at 29.6%. Luton had the third highest percentage of population aged 15 or under at 21.9%, with Thurrock (21.3%) and Peterborough (21%) also in the top ten. Luton recorded the highest population density outside London at 5,197 residents per square kilometre.
Household numbers also rose sharply in the region. Uttlesford had the second highest increase in households in England and Wales at 18.2%, behind only Tower Hamlets in London. Bedford recorded a 17.4% rise, South Norfolk 16.3%, and Central Bedfordshire 15.7%.
