A recent demographic analysis of Shepton Mallet and its surrounding area has revealed interesting insights into the age profile of its population compared to national averages.

The analysis highlights that Shepton Mallet has a slightly lower percentage of young children (aged 0 to 4) and children (aged 5 to 9) compared to the national average. The local figures stand at 4.8% and 5.4% respectively, while the national averages are 5.4% and 5.9%. Similarly, the proportion of young adults aged 20 to 24 in Shepton Mallet is 5.6%, slightly below the national figure of 6%.

However, there is a noticeable higher proportion of teenagers aged 15 to 19 in Shepton Mallet, making up 5.9% of the population, which is above the national average of 5.7%. This trend continues with middle-aged adults, where the local population aged 45 to 49 comprises 6.2%, close to the national average of 6.4%.

Significantly, Shepton Mallet has a higher percentage of older adults and senior citizens. The population aged 50 to 54 stands at 7.4%, and those aged 55 to 59 at 7.5%, both exceeding the national averages of 6.9% and 6.7% respectively. This trend is even more pronounced in the age groups of 60 to 64 and 65 to 69, where the local figures are 6.6% and 6%, compared to the national figures of 5.8% and 4.9%.

The trend continues into the older age brackets, with the local population aged 70 to 74 making up 6.4%, and those aged 75 to 79 accounting for 4.7%, both higher than the national averages of 5% and 3.6%. Additionally, the proportion of senior citizens aged 80 to 84 is 3.2%, and those aged 85 and over is 3.1%, compared to the national averages of 2.5% and 2.4%.

These findings suggest that Shepton Mallet has a significantly ageing population. This demographic trend has important implications for local authorities and community planners, who need to consider the specific needs of an older population in their planning and resource allocation.