Albania, a country in Southeastern Europe, has experienced significant demographic changes over the last 70+ years. In 1950, Albania’s population was 1.25 million. By 1989, it peaked at 3.26 million before entering a period of stagnation and decline. In 2024, Albania’s population is estimated at 2.79 million, showing a long-term shrinking trend. According to future projections, the population is expected to fall below 2 million by 2061 and could decline further to just 1.18 million by 2100.
Albania’s Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
Albania’s demographic history is marked by periods of growth followed by a decline:
- 1950–1989: Growth Period
Albania’s population grew rapidly due to high birth rates, nearly tripling from 1.25 million in 1950 to 3.26 million in 1989. - 1990–2010: Stabilization and Early Decline
After the fall of communism, large-scale migration began. By 2010, the population dropped slightly to 2.93 million. - 2010–2024: Continued Decline
The population steadily decreased, reaching 2.79 million in 2024, with outmigration and low fertility driving the decline.
Table: Albania Population 1950–2024 (selected years)
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 1.25 |
| 1970 | 2.18 |
| 1990 | 3.28 |
| 2000 | 3.16 |
| 2010 | 2.93 |
| 2020 | 2.87 |
| 2024 | 2.79 |
Albania’s Future Population Projections (2025–2100)
Albania is projected to experience one of the sharpest population declines in Europe.
- 2030: 2.67 million
- 2050: 2.24 million
- 2075: 1.69 million
- 2100: 1.18 million
This represents a 58% decline from the peak of 1989 to the end of the century.
Table: Albania Population Projections
| Year | Projected Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 2030 | 2.67 |
| 2050 | 2.24 |
| 2075 | 1.69 |
| 2100 | 1.18 |
FAQ
Albania’s population in 2024 is estimated at 2.79 million.
Albania’s population peaked in 1989 at around 3.26 million.
The decline is mainly due to low birth rates and mass migration after the 1990s.
By 2050, Albania’s population is projected to shrink to 2.24 million.
Current projections suggest the population will stabilize around 1.18 million by 2100, with limited growth expected beyond that.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.

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