The census provides a detailed snapshot of the population and its characteristics once a decade. The last census was conducted in 2021.

What is the census?

The census is a survey that happens every 10 years and gives us a detailed picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. All kinds of organisations, from Milton Keynes Council to charities, use the information to help provide the services we all need, including transport, education and healthcare. Without the census, it would be much more difficult to do this.

The last census

The last census took place in 2021. Many people and organisations used information from the 2021 Census in a variety of ways. To read more about the benefits that information from the 2021 Census helped to create, visit the Office for National Statistics (ONS) website.

Past censuses 

Previous census data can be found on the Office for National Statistics website.

How will the census make a difference to me?

The census makes a difference to everyone. It’s a chance to have your voice heard and help inform the future of your local area.  Milton Keynes is continuing to grow and in order for us to plan for the services that are needed by our residents, we need to have accurate information about who lives here.

Population statistics

More information on population statistics for Milton Keynes is available on the ONS website.