Ageing population and people living alone drives household growth

New Government statistics reveal a rise in the number of single households as the single biggest factor accounting for around 70 per cent of household growth until 2026.

The figures also show higher levels of household growth in the North and the Midlands and a levelling-out of growth in the wider south east compared to previous projections - providing more evidence that economic growth is spreading throughout the country.

Communities and Local Government's - New Projections of Households for England and the regions to 2029 - shows the number of households is projected to rise by 223,000 new households each year.

The key reasons for the growth is the continued rise in the number of single households, amounting to 155,000 of the 223,000 of projected growth (70 per cent). More than one third of these one person households are over 65 years reflecting an ageing population and an increasing average life expectancy, now projected at record highs of 81.6 years and 85.2 years for men and women respectively. These figures reflect a significant increase in male life expectancy in the last few years. Net international migration continues to account for a third of household growth.

Today's statistics again underline the Government's strategy to build more homes is the right one, key to meeting the aspirations of future generations. The Government will continue to do this in a responsible, sustainable way with clear protections for the environment and new commitments to tackle climate change and cut carbon emissions.

Housing Minister Yvette Cooper said: "These figures show why it's right to build more homes to meet the needs of the next generation. We have a growing population with people living longer and more of us are living alone.

"These figures show the need for more homes is not restricted to London or the South East. Increases in jobs and economic prosperity across the Midlands and the North are increasing demand for housing nationwide.

"If we don't build more homes we will see house prices rising even higher, with young people struggling to afford a home of their own."