Latest population figures
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) calculates population figures for every local authority in the UK. Estimates are produced annually for the previous year, and are known as ‘Mid-Year Estimates’ because they refer to the mid-point of the year. They are considered the most accurate population statistics short of the census
Barnet's overall population in 2008 was estimated by ONS to be 331,522, the second largest population of the 33 London boroughs. Various breakdowns of this figure are available:
- 2008 ONS age and sex profiles
- 2008 ONS ethnicity profile: this is not yet available, but the ONS has produced experimental figures for ethnicity 2001-6 (external link). However, we prefer to use Greater London Authority (GLA) ethnicity breakdowns because they are available for 2001-2031 allowing comparisons over time.
- 2008 ONS ward breakdowns: this is not yet available either, but the ONS has produced experimental figures for wards 2001-6 (external link). However, we prefer to use Greater London Authority ward breakdowns because they are available for 2001-2031 allowing comparisons over time.
Barnet's overall population in 2009 is projected by ONS to be: 338,100. ONS projections are not considered as accurate as the estimates.
Barnet’s growing population, 1997-2008
Barnet’s population has risen at a steady rate – the ONS figures for each year 1997-2008 are given in Barnet's growing population, 1997-2008 
(PDF 53 KB). The population is likely to rise even faster over the next decade, as the section below explains.
Future population size and demographics
The ONS publishes population projections for local authorities every two years. The last publication date was on 12 June 2008. The Council uses these ONS projections up to 2013, and from 2014 onwards it uses the GLA 's population projections for Barnet, because these take account of the borough's major regeneration schemes, which will create many thousands of new homes over the next 20 years.
The population projections used by the council show Barnet's population rising from 334,600 in 2008 to to 371,150 by 2018 - a rise of over ten per cent.
Email this pageLast modified by: Sam Markey on 08/10/2009