Northern Ireland population growth slows
Date published:
New accredited official statistics published by NISRA present 2025-based mid-year population estimates, referring to the number of people usually resident in Northern Ireland on 30 June each year.
Key findings
- The population here was estimated to be 1.93 million on 30 June 2025.
- This is annual population growth of 0.03% (+600 people) from mid-2024.
- Population growth has slowed for the second consecutive year (was 0.4 per cent in mid-2024, and 0.5 percent in mid-2023).
- The slowing of population growth in Northern Ireland is mirrored across other parts of the UK. The population of England increased by 0.4 per cent to 58.8 million in mid-2025. The population of Scotland grew slightly by 0.04 per cent to 5.55 million, while there was a small decrease in the population of Wales by 0.1 per cent to 3.18 million.
- Net migration changed from a gain of 5,800 people in mid-2024 to a loss of 800 people in mid-2025 – mainly due to a reduction in the estimated number of people coming to live here from abroad, and an increase in those leaving to live in other parts of the UK.
- Natural change remained positive but declined due to lower birth numbers (19,100 births and 17,600 deaths).
- Population ageing continues, with increases in both the median age (now at 40.6 years) and the proportion aged 65 and over (now at 18.5 per cent).
- The population aged 85 and over has increased by 24% over the last decade, growing around six times faster than the overall population.
- The new statistics also point to an estimated 312 centenarians (i.e. those aged 100 years or more) living here.
- Estimated population change varied across Local Government Districts, with four districts experiencing population growth, four showing population decline and three remaining broadly stable.
About the publication
The full statistical bulletin provides detailed analysis of 2025-based mid-year population estimates for Northern Ireland by age and sex, including those aged 85 and older.
The release includes population estimates by age and sex for Northern Ireland and its 11 Local Government Districts. This includes figures by single year of age and sex up to 89 years, and for those aged 90 and over. Estimates of the population aged 85 and over include figures by single year of age up to 104 years, and for those aged 105 and over.
The statistical bulletin, along with statistical tables and supporting information is available on the release page of the NISRA website.
Further information
Read the full report and data tables: 2025 Mid-year Population Estimates for Northern Ireland