Bermuda’s population is ageing with those aged 65 and over now representing the third most populated group in Bermuda, according to the 2016 Census of Population and Housing.

Highlights from the report were presented in Parliament yesterday by Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Cabinet Office with Responsibility of Government Reform.

It showed the age group now represents 17 per cent of the population, shifting from the least populated group in 2010 to the third, while the median age increased from 41 to 44.

Preliminary report analysis excludes 711 persons in institutions, 138 non-sheltered or homeless persons and 4,637 overseas visitors.

According to the figures, the island’s non-institutional population is 63,779 — 30,690 male and 33,389 female. In terms of racial make-up 33,339 of those are black, 19,466 white, 5,780 mixed racial groups, 2,592 Asians and the remainder were not stated. The number of black people in the community dropped by 2 per cent from 2010 when the last report was published.

According to the report, there was an increase in the population’s highest level of academic qualifications attained since 2010. The proportion of those 16 years or older with no formal certificates declined to 14 per cent, while the proportion of degree holders increased to 29 per cent. The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 7 per cent.

The number of dwelling units increased to 28,192 units and the average household size was 2.26 persons per household. Out of the 27,418 private households, 48 per cent were owner-occupied.

As of March 31, 2017, about $575,000 of the $1.7 million budgeted for the 2016 Census had been spent.

Ms Foggo said it equated to 34 per cent of the budget.

“The budget accounted for a higher percentage of data collection being completed by more costly field interviewing than actually materialised,” she explained.

Ms Foggo said the report had presented a “plethora of challenges”. Some 827 households were not completed and data was imputed for these households as well as those partially completed.

The 2016 Census results will be released in two publications. The first was released on January 29, focusing on a summary analyses of the most basic characteristics of Bermuda’s population and housing.

The second report is expected to be completed by the end of next month. This final report will cover detailed analyses on the Census topics.

• For the full ministerial statement, click on the PDF link under “Related Media”