Population of Swindon History, growth and future estimates

How many people live in Swindon today?

The ONS mid-year population estimate for the Swindon unitary authority (mid-2024) is 243,875. This covers the borough of Swindon, including the town centre, Old Town, West Swindon (Toothill, Shaw, Freshbrook), North Swindon, East Swindon, and outlying areas such as Wroughton, Highworth, Chiseldon, and Wanborough. The 2021 Census recorded 233,400 people – an increase of 11.6% from 2011 (209,200) – a higher growth rate than England as a whole (6.6%) and the South West (7.8%).

Why has Swindon’s population grown?

Swindon’s growth has several drivers, past and present. The first major boom came with the Great Western Railway. In 1841, Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Daniel Gooch chose Swindon as the site for the GWR’s central locomotive works – roughly halfway between London and Bristol. The small agricultural settlement exploded: by 1851 New Swindon already matched Old Swindon’s population, and by the mid-20th century over 14,000 people worked in the railway works alone. See Swindon’s railway heritage and Swindon’s post-war expansion for more.

After the Second World War, Swindon was identified for major expansion to absorb London overspill and address housing shortages. The 1968 “Silver Book” proposed growing the town from around 100,000 to 400,000. Although that target was never met, West Swindon, Toothill, and later developments like Wichelstowe have continued to attract new residents. More recently, factors include:

• Jobs and employers – Nationwide, Honda (until closure), Great Western Hospital, Swindon Borough Council, and many logistics, engineering, and tech firms.
• Transport links – The M4 corridor, direct rail to London Paddington (~1 hour), Bristol, Bath, and Oxford.
• Housing affordability – Swindon tends to be more affordable than Reading, Oxford, Bristol, and parts of London, drawing families and commuters. See Swindon vs Reading, Oxford & Bristol.
• New housing – Ongoing developments such as Wichelstowe, Tadpole Garden Village, and new estates have boosted population.

Population density and demographics

Swindon’s population density is around 966 people per square kilometre – about twice the England average (432/km²) and among the higher densities in the South West. By age (2024 estimate), roughly 22% are aged 0–17, 61% aged 18–64, and 16% aged 65 and over. Between 2011 and 2021, Swindon saw a 28.6% increase in people aged 65+ and a 12.4% increase in under-15s, reflecting both an ageing population and continued family growth.

Future population estimates

The ONS publishes population projections for local authorities (including Swindon, E06000030) based on assumptions about births, deaths, and migration. The 2022-based projections are the latest available. Swindon has consistently grown faster than many comparable towns, and with planned housing at Wichelstowe, Tadpole Garden Village, and elsewhere, further growth is likely. The next UK Census is scheduled for 2031 and will provide an updated count. For housing and development context, see new builds in Swindon.

Common questions about Swindon’s population

What is the population of Swindon in 2024?

The ONS mid-year estimate for Swindon (mid-2024) is 243,875. This is the official estimate for the Swindon unitary authority.

How many people lived in Swindon in 2021?

The 2021 Census recorded 233,400 people in the Swindon unitary authority.

Is Swindon’s population growing?

Yes. Between 2011 and 2021 it grew by 11.6%, outpacing the South West (7.8%) and England (6.6%). Mid-year estimates show continued growth since 2021. Swindon is often described as one of the fastest-growing towns in the South of England.

What is Swindon’s population density?

Swindon has approximately 966 people per square kilometre – higher than the England average of 432/km². It ranks among the more densely populated areas in the South West.

Why did Swindon grow so fast?

Swindon’s growth was driven initially by the Great Western Railway (1840s onward), then by post-war expansion plans (1960s Silver Book) and London overspill. More recently, jobs (Nationwide, NHS, logistics, engineering), transport (M4, rail to London), and relatively affordable housing have attracted new residents.

Information correct as of February 2026. Population figures are estimates; the next Census is in 2031. Check the ONS for the latest data.