Scotland’s household numbers projected to rise with most growth among older people

Statistics published today by the National Records of Scotland (NRS) show that the number of households in Scotland is projected to continue to increase, rising by 345,000 between 2014 and 2039.

The number of households headed by someone aged 70 or over is projected to increase by 65 per cent, compared to an increase of just two per cent for those under 70. Older people are more likely to live alone than younger people, and the number of people aged 70 and over living alone is projected to increase by 60 per cent over the next 25 years, to 150,000 men and 260,000 women. The gender difference reflects women’s greater life expectancy and tendency to outlive their partners.

Tim Ellis, National Records of Scotland (NRS) Chief Executive and Registrar General, said:

“The figures published today by National Records of Scotland show a projected 345,000 extra households in Scotland in 2039 compared to 2014. This is partly because Scotland’s population is projected to increase in this period, but also because of our ageing population. Older people are more likely to live alone than younger people, and as more people live alone or in smaller households, the number of households will rise at a faster rate than the population.”

Projected number of households in Scotland by age of head of household, 2014 and 2039