Population: data introduction
These pages contain a limited selection of charts showing population and household estimates and projections. The main source of demographic data in Scotland is National Records of Scotland (NRS).
The Office of National Statistics (ONS) summarizes the methodology, caveats and sources used for the calculation of population statistics across UK countries.
It is important to be aware that population estimates are essentially cross-sectional, or snap shots in time of populations, and only partially take account of population migration. They are also based on location of residence. People without a usual residence may be excluded.
Population projections always have a high degree of uncertainty and can change substantially (see the Office of National Statistics website for more details of UK population projections).
Please note: If you require the most up-to-date data available, please check the data sources directly as new data may have been published since these data pages were last updated. Although we endeavour to ensure that the data pages are kept up-to-date, there may be a time lag between new data being published and the relevant ScotPHO web pages being updated.
