The total population of the European Union reached an all-time high in 2024, totaling 450.4 million people.
This is reported by Finway
Migration Compensates for Natural Decline
According to Eurostat, the main driver of population growth in EU countries has been migration from third countries. Meanwhile, natural growth within the European Union has remained negative for over a decade. Since 2012, in the member states, the number of deaths each year has exceeded the number of births.
In 2024, 3.56 million children were born in EU countries, while 4.82 million people died. This resulted in a natural population decline of 1.3 million people.
“The key factor in this growth has been migration from third countries, as natural growth in the EU has been negative for over ten years.”
The demographic situation in the European Union remains challenging: low birth rates and an aging population create additional pressure on the pension system and labor market. At the same time, migration flows partially help to offset these challenges.
Leaders and Laggards in Demographic Changes
The largest share of the EU population is made up of residents of France, Germany, and Italy. Together, they account for nearly 47% of the total population of the bloc.
The highest population growth in 2024 was recorded in Malta — 19 people per 1,000 residents. Significant growth was also observed in Ireland (16.3) and Luxembourg (14.7).
In contrast, eight EU member states recorded a decline in population. The largest drop in demographic indicators occurred in Latvia — minus 9.9 per thousand people. A significant decrease was also observed in Hungary (minus 4.7), while Poland and Estonia shared third place with a rate of minus 3.4.