Northern Ireland population growth slows to just 600 people in a year

Northern Ireland’s population grew by just 600 people in the year to June 2025, according to new estimates published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA).

The estimated population reached 1.93 million on 30 June 2025. The annual increase of 0.03% was much smaller than the rises of 7,500 people in the previous year and 9,800 people in the year before that. The figures describe the population in mid-2025, although they were published on 24 September 2026. 

Northern Ireland population growth affected by migration

NISRA estimates that births exceeded deaths by 1,400 during the year. That increase was partly offset by net migration, which reduced the population by an estimated 800 people. A year earlier, net migration had added 5,800 people.

An estimated 12,100 people moved to Northern Ireland from abroad and 10,200 left for destinations outside the UK, producing a net international gain of 1,900. Movement between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK resulted in a net loss of around 2,600 people. 

Population continues to age

The median age rose to 40.6 years, compared with 38.2 years a decade earlier. By mid-2025, an estimated 356,500 residents were aged 65 or over, representing 18.5% of the population.

NISRA also estimated that 43,800 people were aged 85 or over, an increase of 24% over the decade. Around 312 residents were aged 100 or more.

Different trends across council areas

Four of Northern Ireland’s 11 council districts recorded population growth, four recorded a decline and three remained broadly stable. Lisburn and Castlereagh had the largest percentage rise, at 0.5%, while Mid Ulster had the largest percentage fall, at 0.3%.

The estimates measure the population at 30 June 2025 and do not account for changes since then. The full statistical bulletin and tables are available from NISRA.