The old-age dependency ratio is the ratio of elderly dependents (who are generally economically inactive and 65 years and older), compared to the number of people of working age (15-64-year-olds).
A high dependency ratio means those of working age, and the overall economy, face a greater burden in supporting the aging population.
United Kingdom's age dependency ratio for elderly people was: 30.8% reported in 2024 (most recent observation). This is a lower value against a global average of 85.1%. A lower ratio indicates less financial burden is carried by working people, and consequently less government assistace required than dependents under the age of 15.
United Kingdom's data is highlighted in the table below, use the filter and sort order options to allow easy comparison with other countries.
Data source: United Nations, Washington D.C.