Middle-layer Super Output Area (MSOA)

Definition

A Middle-layer Super Output Area (MSOA) is a medium-sized statistical geography used in England and Wales, sitting between Lower-later Super Output Areas (LSOAs) and Local Authorities. Each MSOA contains around 5,000-15,000 residents or 2,000-6,000 households.

Also known as

Mid-level census geography

Relevance to OCSI

MSOAs are widely used in health statistics, transport planning and socio-economic research. They provide a useful balance between granularity and data protection, allowing for meaningful analysis without the privacy concerns of smaller units like LSOAs.

Author

Katie Leach
Senior Research and Communication Officer

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Middle-layer Super Output Area (MSOA)

Definition

Also known as

Relevance to OCSI

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