Dorset is an attractive place to live, work, and holiday, offering a unique natural environment, a rich cultural heritage, and a mix of seaside, rural, and urban settings.

An above-average proportion of Dorset residents aged 16 and over report high life satisfaction and feel that the things they do in life are worthwhile. The natural environment, along with cultural and recreational activities, plays an important role in this and helps make communities feel safer and stronger.

There are approximately 390,000 people living in the Dorset Council area, with a significant proportion (31%) aged 65 and over - the highest of any unitary authority in England. Among the workforce (aged 16 to 64), 44% are aged 50 and over. While older workers bring valuable experience and skills, these will need to be replaced as they retire. The growing number of older people will also increase demand for health and social care services.

At the other end of the age spectrum, experiences in a child’s early years lay the foundation for lifelong health and wellbeing. In 2024, 67% of pupils achieved a ‘Good Level of Development’ at the end of Reception year - a decrease of 4% compared to 2019, but very similar to the national average.

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