According to the latest Census 2021 data, major built-up areas (BUAs) in England (excluding London) and Wales have the youngest populations, with a median age of 34 years. The proportion of non-UK born residents increases as BUA size classification increases, with the highest proportions living in major BUAs in both England (22.9%) and Wales (16.7%).
Home Ownership Rates Lowest in Major BUAs
The data also reveals that households in major BUAs have the lowest levels of outright home ownership in England (25.9%) and Wales (28.4%), while minor BUAs have the highest proportion of usual residents aged 16 years and over with Level 4 or above qualifications in England (34.3%) and major BUAs have the highest proportion in Wales (39.4%).
Employment Patterns Vary by BUA Size
The employment status of usual residents aged 16 years and over in BUAs varies across England and Wales. In England (excluding London), 56.6% of usual residents in BUAs were employed, with small, medium, and large BUAs having the highest proportions of people in employment. In Wales, 53.2% of usual residents in BUAs were employed, with similar proportions observed across BUA size classifications.
Industry and Occupation Trends
Analysis of the data shows that the type of industries and occupations in BUAs also varies. In England (excluding London), larger BUAs typically have higher proportions of people working in construction, professional, scientific and technical activities, and public administration and defense, while minor and small BUAs have higher proportions working in skilled trades and caring, leisure, and other service occupations.
In Wales, major BUAs have higher proportions of people working in professional occupations, while minor and small BUAs have higher proportions working in skilled trades and caring, leisure, and other service occupations.
Conclusion
The Census 2021 data provides valuable insights into the characteristics of built-up areas in England (excluding London) and Wales. Major BUAs tend to have younger populations, higher proportions of non-UK born residents, and lower rates of outright home ownership. The employment patterns and industry/occupation trends also vary by BUA size, highlighting the diverse economic landscapes across different areas.