Albania's population falls to 2.36 million in 2025, driven by increased emigration and a declining birth rate. Tirana remains the only region to record growth.

Shrinking Nation: Albania’s Population Continues to Decline


Albania’s population has declined once again, falling to 2,363,314 residents as of January 1, 2025—a 1.2% decrease compared to the previous year. The figures, published by INSTAT following the latest census and demographic estimates, underline the growing challenges the country faces due to mass emigration and a decreasing birth rate.

While a modest natural population surplus was recorded in 2024, with 1,208 more births than deaths, this was far outweighed by net migration losses. In total, 28,836 more people left Albania than arrived, making net migration the dominant factor in the country’s ongoing demographic decline.

Population Drops to 2.36 Million: A Nation on the Move


The keyword “population drops to 2.36 million” underscores a worrying trend for Albania’s future. Despite a slightly positive natural increase, the country’s shrinking population is being significantly driven by the continued exodus of its citizens, especially younger generations, seeking better opportunities abroad.

According to INSTAT’s data, the gender ratio at birth also shifted marginally, rising from 106.8 boys per 100 girls in 2023 to 107.8 in 2024, reflecting ongoing demographic imbalances.

Tirana the Lone Bright Spot as Other Regions Shrink


The capital city Tirana was the only region in the country to experience population growth, registering a 0.2% increase compared to the previous year. The urban centre continues to attract internal migrants from rural and less developed areas, drawn by job prospects, education, and infrastructure.

On the other hand, Shkodra and Kukës suffered the steepest population drops, with declines of 2.5% and 2.3% respectively. Despite the overall trend, Tirana, Fier, and Elbasan continue to house the bulk of Albania’s population, accounting for 32.2%, 9.9%, and 9.6% of the national total respectively.

Migration and Low Birth Rates Challenge Albania’s Future


While Albania’s population drops to 2.36 million, policymakers are facing mounting pressure to implement strategies that address the twin demographic challenges of declining birth rates and mass emigration. Without significant intervention, experts warn the country could face long-term consequences, including labour shortages, an ageing population, and reduced economic growth.

As the data makes clear, unless Albania can curb the outflow of its citizens and stimulate birth rates, the nation’s population may continue to dwindle in the years ahead.