Smaller family sizes but number of households increase – 2022 census report

Guyana recorded 271,946 households in 2022, marking a 32.9 per cent increase from 204,624 households in 2012, according to preliminary results from the 2022 National Population and Housing Census.

The figures reflect a long-term upward trend in household formation observed since at least 1991 and signal profound changes in family structures across the country.

Every administrative region recorded an increase in households over the past decade. Region One (Barima-Waini) posted the highest proportional growth, with a 75.4 per cent increase, while Region Six (East Berbice–Corentyne) recorded the smallest rise, at 27 per cent. This pattern underscores both the rapid development of smaller, less-populated regions and the relative stability in traditionally populous areas.

Despite the surge in household numbers, the average size of households continues to decline, reflecting a shift from extended family living arrangements to smaller, nuclear households. In 1991, the average household consisted of 4.7 persons. By 2012, this had fallen to 3.65, and the 2022 census recorded an average household size of 3.23 — an 11.5 per cent decrease over the last decade.

The trend suggests changing social and economic patterns, including increased urbanisation, mobility, and the growing preference for smaller household units. Analysts say these shifts have implications for housing demand, infrastructure planning, and public service delivery, particularly in fast-growing regions.

Presenting the overview of the findings, Chief Statistician and Census Officer Errol La Cruez said the release represents the completion of the initial phase of data processing and analysis, offering headline indicators that can already inform national policy, planning, and investment decisions.

“This is the completion and release of the preliminary results. These are headline indicators obtained from data that have been processed and analysed in keeping with international practice,” La Cruez said, noting that the census was conducted using digital technology to ensure accuracy and data security. He also thanked field staff, international partners, and every citizen who participated in the nationwide exercise.

La Cruez highlighted that the dramatic increase in households and corresponding decline in household size is part of a broader demographic transition, with the period after 2016 showing rapid population growth and changing social structures.

“Today’s release is the beginning,” he said, adding that more detailed thematic reports on housing, migration, and population characteristics will be published in the coming months, providing a fuller picture to guide government policy and development planning.