Scottish household survey 2017: key findings

Composition of households

Characteristics of adults

Almost half (46%) were aged 45 years or more.

There were more women (51%) than men (49%).

Nearly three in ten adults reported having a long-term physical or mental health condition.

Age of adults

Economic status

The proportion of adults who were employed full time has been roughly stable since 1999.

The proportion of people who were permanently retired from work increased to 24%.

The proportion of those looking after the home or family decreased to 5%.

Characteristics of households

84% of people in Scotland live in urban areas, while only 16% live in rural areas.

Over six in ten (62%) households are owner occupied. Over one in five (22%) are social rented.

Household type*

More than a third of adults live alone (35%):

– 20% as single adult– 14% as single older households.

Only 5% are large families consisting of 2 adults and 3 or more children, or 3 or more adults with 1 or more children.

* For full definition on household type please see Glossary.