Most areas of Scotland projected to increase in population

Scotland’s population growth over the next ten years is projected to be predominantly in the central belt and urban areas, and mostly as a result of migration patterns, according to figures published today by National Records of Scotland. 

Three quarters of local authority areas (24 councils) are expected to see growth, with the remainder projected to face depopulation over the next decade.

The Population Projections for Scottish Areas are based on the latest mid-2016 population estimates and provide an indication of the future population size and age structure of Scottish areas based on a set of assumptions about future fertility, mortality and migration.

Tim Ellis, the Registrar General for Scotland, said:

“Migration is driving projected increases in population in most areas of Scotland over the next 10 years. Scotland’s population is also projected to age. Between 2016 and 2026, all council areas in Scotland are projected to experience an increase in their population aged 75 and over.”

The report breaks down further the National Population Projections published at Scotland and UK level on 26 October 2017, which showed that Scotland’s population is projected to increase by 3% over the next 10 years.

An infographic summarising the key points of the NRS report and an interactive data visualisation comparing population projections between Scottish council areas is available on the NRS website.

The full publication Population Projections for Scottish Areas (2016-based) is also available on this website.