In a cross-sectional postal questionnaire study we compared individuals with localized low back pain (LBP) with individuals with LBP as part of widespread musculoskeletal pain, according to demographic and lifestyle characteristics and functional ability. All the inhabitants in Ullensaker county born 1918-20, 1928-30, 1938-40, 1948-50, 1958-60 and 1968-70 were sent a questionnaire in 1994. The study population comprised 2,893 responders. LBP as part of widespread pain indicated reduced functional ability, and the groups differed in several demographic and lifestyle characteristics.