The 2001 Area Classification is used to group together geographic areas according to key characteristics common to the population in that grouping. These groupings are called clusters, and are derived using census data.
The classification is used by government departments and academics for analysis and comparison, and can also be used by members of the public and school pupils for finding out about where they live and how it compares with the rest of the country.
Using the navigation bar on the left, find out more about the local authority, ward, health area, Super Output Area / Data zones, and Output Area classifications'
A similar classification was produced after the 1991 Census (revised for 1996 boundaries).
Area Classification Home
