without religion
New census data from England and Wales shows a significant shift in religious affiliation. The Anglican Church remains a historic symbol and the crown represents the nation, yet less than half of people in England and Wales now identify as Christian. In the 2011 census, 59.3% marked themselves as Christian; by 2021 that share dropped to 46.2%. The trend marks the end of an era when many people automatically described themselves as Christian.
Conversely, those reporting no religion rose markedly, from 25% to 37.2%. However, this group is not monolithic. Some are atheists, many are agnostic, and others identify as spiritual while maintaining secular practices. The Muslim population also grew, rising from 4.9% to 6.5%. These shifts reflect broader changes in beliefs and cultural identities across the region.
There’s less white, “so what?”
Commentary from political figures has followed the census data with heated debate. A well-known populist figure branded the changes as shocking, arguing that a major demographic transformation is underway and that identity is shifting due to immigration. Some have claimed misrepresentation of figures, suggesting future censuses might alter which questions are asked about nationality or birthplace. The discussion highlights a wider concern about national identity and belonging in changing times.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the share identifying as white sits around 81.7%, down from about 85% a decade earlier. The next largest group is those of Asian origin, including Indian and Pakistani descent, now about 9.3% of the population. Self-identified mixed, multiple, or other ethnic backgrounds have grown, with self-identification as Black (Caribbean or African) rising to around 2.5% from 1.8% previously. Immigration and long-term trends continue to shape who lives in the country and how they see themselves.
Older and less young
The census also highlights changes in age structure. The country is aging, with a rising share of residents aged 65 and over. The 65-plus group makes up a larger portion than a decade ago, while those under 15 have a slightly smaller share. The aging trend is broad, affecting many parts of the nation and having implications for services, workforces, and intergenerational life.
Geography matters. In London, aging is evident but the city remains a magnet for younger residents driven by opportunities and lifestyle. In many wealthy districts, such as those in central and western parts of the city, population dynamics reflect a mix of affluence, mobility, and shifts in housing markets that emerged during and after the pandemic.
Overall, England and Wales continue to grow, drawing people from different backgrounds. The census numbers illustrate the balance between older and younger generations and the ongoing movement of people into and within the region. The story is one of gradual change rather than sudden upheaval, with longer-term consequences for policy, planning, and community life.