Lower-layer Super Output Area (LSOA)

Definition

A Lower-layer Super Output Area (LSOA) is a small geographic unit used for statistical analysis in England and Wales. LSOAs were introduced by the ONS (Office for National Statistics) for the Census and are designed to contain a consistent population size, typically around 1,000-3,000 residents or 400-1,200 households.

Also known as

Small-area census geography

Relevance to OCSI

LSOAs are essential for place-based data analysis and many datasets are published at this level. This geography type is notably used in the English Indices of Deprivation (IMD) and Community Needs Index.

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