Isle Of Wight Population 2024

As of 18th March 2024, the Current Population of the Isle of Wight Island is 144,606 and might soon reach 144,919, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Key Facts About Isle Of Wight

• Tourism is the largest industry, with over 2 million people visiting annually.
• In the 19th century, Queen Victoria visited the Isle of Wight every year on holiday, leading to increased tourism to the island.
• The Isle of Wight covers an area of 380km².
• The Isle of Wight is in the English Channel, off the south coast of England.
• The highest point on the Isle of Wight is St Boniface Down, at 233 metres.

Population Growth of Isle Of Wight (2011-2024)

According to the Isle of Wight Council, the island’s population is expected to increase by 5.6% from 2020 to 2030, or 8,000 people. The island ranked 46th on the Ceremonial English Counties List.

Isle Of Wight Population Density (2024)

The population density of the Isle of Wight is 372/km2 (960/sq mi).

The Isle of Wight’s blend of bustling towns and serene countryside presents a unique demographic landscape. The island’s population density varies considerably, reflecting its diverse habitats—from densely populated areas such as Newport, the principal town, to more sparse, rural locales.

The island’s geographic spread of inhabitants reveals a story of community and isolation. Coastal regions, particularly on the east side, tend to support higher population densities. This contrasts with the more sparsely populated interior and western areas, which are characterized by their vast open spaces and agricultural land.

Isle Of Wight Population By Race (2024)

Isley of Wight Ethnicity (2024):  97.3% White, 1.1% Asian, 0.2% Black, 0.1% Other, 1.2% Mixed.

As we move towards 2024, projections indicate a continuing evolution in the Isle of Wight’s demographic composition. The population is predominantly White British, reflecting the UK’s overall ethnic makeup. However, recent years have gradually increased diversity, with small yet growing communities from ethnic minorities.

This subtle shift presents an interesting dynamic. The Isle of Wight, historically less diverse than much of mainland Britain, is slowly weaving a more varied demographic fabric. This gradual change hints at an island embracing multiculturalism, reflecting broader national trends toward diversity.

Isle Of Wight Population Age

The Ageing Population of the Isle of Wight:

A striking feature of the Isle of Wight’s demographic landscape is its substantially higher percentage of residents aged 65 and over. As of the mid-2021 estimates census, 27.8% of the Isle’s population falls into this age bracket.

This figure starkly contrasts with the 19.3% observed across Southeast England and the national average of 18.2%. The Isle of Wight’s allure as a serene retirement haven significantly contributes to this trend, drawing in older individuals seeking peace in their later years.

Youth and the Working-age Population:

On the opposite end of the age spectrum, the Isle has a lower proportion of young people. Only 14.6% of the Isle’s population is aged between 0 and 14, a deviation from the 18.1% seen across the Southeast and the entirety of England.

Similarly, the working-age population (15-64 years old) on the Isle of Wight comprises 57.6%, falling below the 62.6% in the broader Southeast region and 63.7% across England. These figures highlight a demographic shift that could impact Isle’s economic vigour and workforce dynamics.

The Impact of Demographic Trends:

While one might assume these trends could forecast a declining population on the Isle of Wight, the reality is countered by the area’s attractiveness as a retirement destination, leading to a steady flow of older adults relocating to the Isle. This influx has crucial implications for local policy and planning, necessitating a recalibrated focus on healthcare and other services tailored to an aging population.

Isle Of Wight Population By Religion

• Employment rate 69.6% ages 16 to 64
• Unemployment rate 4.2% ages 16+
• Claimant Count 3.9% ages 16 to 64
• Economic inactivity 26.2% ages 16 to 64

Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS)

The Predominant Faith: Christianity

Historically, Christianity has been the leading religion on the Isle of Wight, serving as a cornerstone of spiritual life for many residents. The latest census data 2011 shows that 60.5% of the population identifies as Christian.

This figure, however, represents a decline from 2001, when 73.7% of the Isle of Wight population by religion identified themselves with Christianity. This decrease underscores a broader trend away from religious affiliation, which is not solely attributed to demographic changes stemming from migration but rather a general shift in societal attitudes towards religion.

The Rise of Non-religious Affiliations

Parallel to the decrease in Christian affiliation, there has been a significant increase in individuals reporting no religious affiliation. From 2001 to 2011, this demographic jumped from 17.3% to 26.9%, mirroring a growing societal trend towards secularism or non-religious identities. This movement reflects a changing landscape of belief and spirituality on the island, pointing towards a more diverse future in terms of spiritual affiliations.

Minority Religions on the Isle of Wight

In addition to Christianity and the rise in non-religious affiliations, the Isle of Wight is home to a mosaic of minority religions, each contributing to the island’s rich cultural diversity.

Muslims constitute 0.4% of the population, followed closely by Buddhists at 0.3% and Hindus at 0.2%. Although these groups are smaller, their presence adds layers to the religious and cultural fabric of the Isle of Wight, showcasing a vibrant community of diverse beliefs and practices.

More information can also be found on the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment for the Isle of Wight.

Isle Of Wight Economy (2024)

Thriving Businesses and the Backbone of the Isle of Wight Economy

The Isle of Wight is home to 4,705 businesses, each contributing uniquely to the island’s economic vibrancy. A remarkable 87.3% of these enterprises classify as micro-businesses, signifying the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in the region.

Small businesses comprise 11.1% of the economy, with medium and large businesses constituting 1.4% and 0.1%, respectively. This diverse business ecosystem underpins the strength and adaptability of the Isle of Wight economy, setting a solid foundation for growth and development into 2024 and beyond.

Key Industries: Driving Economic Prosperity

A pivotal aspect of the Isle of Wight’s economic prowess lies in its dominant industries. Wholesale, retail trade, and motor vehicle/motorcycle repair sectors emerge as significant employment drivers, providing numerous job opportunities to the local populace and contributing substantially to the economy’s overall dynamism.

Isle of Wight Economy: Salaries and Earnings

Regarding remuneration, the Isle of Wight presents an intriguing picture. The average annual salary stands at £27,534, reflecting diverse employment sectors and opportunities. Although men typically earn 11.9% more, the focus on closing this gap remains a priority. Compared to the national average of £33,384, Isle of Wight salaries are 17.52% lower, illustrating the island’s unique economic landscape and the lifestyle affordability it offers.