Skip to main content
Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency

Main navigation

  • Home
  • Statistics and Research
  • Release Calendar
  • News
  • Selected for a survey
  • About Us

Comparison of NI Statistical Population Dataset with Census 2021

Date published: 19 December 2024

Topics: Population,  Research into using administrative data for population estimates

On 19 December 2024 NISRA published a statistical research paper titled "Comparison of NI Statistical Population Dataset with Census 2021".

Disclaimer: The Statistical Population Dataset estimates are statistical research and do not replace the accredited official statistics: the mid-year population estimates.

This research paper explores the creation of population estimates for Northern Ireland using a range of administrative datasets. The paper describes:

  • how these Statistical Population Dataset (SPD) estimates were created
  • what they estimate the Northern Ireland population to be in April 2021
  • how they compare to the published census statistics (dated March 2021)

The aim of the SPD is to approximate the usually resident population by age and sex at the NI and sub-NI geographic levels.

Latest news

  • Provisional number of deaths occurring in week ending 17 October 2025 was 322

    24 October 2025

  • Emergency care waiting times show continued pressure in Northern Ireland

    23 October 2025

  • Police complaints remain stable while allegations rise in first half of 2025/26

    23 October 2025

  • Prison population in Northern Ireland rises to an average of 1,911 in 2024/25

    23 October 2025

More news
Share this page Share on Facebook (external link opens in a new window / tab) Share on X (external link opens in a new window / tab) Share by email (external link opens in a new window / tab)

Links

  • Official Statistics producer – Upholding Trust, Quality and Value
  • General Register Office - registration and certification of life events relating to births, deaths and marriages
  • nidirect.gov.uk – the official government website for Northern Ireland citizens
  • Website feedback

Follow NISRA

  • Follow us on Twitter
  • Follow us on Facebook
  • Follow us on Linkedin
  • Follow us on Youtube

Footer

  • © Crown Copyright
  • Terms and conditions
  • Cookies
  • Privacy
  • Accessibility Statement