Albania has entered a new phase of its demographic crisis. The latest data from the Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) show that the country’s population fell to 2.33 million as of January 1, 2026, losing more than 28,000 residents in just one year. Although births continue to outnumber deaths, emigration is draining the country at a pace that far exceeds natural population growth.
According to official figures, Albania’s population declined by 1.16% during 2025. A total of 22,541 births and 21,394 deaths were recorded, resulting in a natural increase of only 1,147 people.
However, this positive balance was entirely offset by emigration. Net migration stood at negative 28,531 people, meaning that 28,531 more individuals left Albania than returned to or settled in the country. In practical terms, for every Albanian added to the population through births, nearly 25 others were lost through migration.
An analysis of the data by age group shows that population decline is affecting almost the entire younger generation, from infants to those aged 30–34. This trend reflects the impact of emigration and the continued departure of young people seeking better living conditions and employment opportunities abroad.
A different picture emerges among older age groups. The number of people aged 65–69 increased by 2.5%, while the population aged 70–74 grew by 6%.
Meanwhile, these demographic trends have contributed to a rise in the country’s average age, which increased from 44.3 years to 45 years.
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