Latvia, one of the Baltic states in Northern Europe, has undergone significant demographic changes over the past seven decades. In 1950, the country’s population was 1.92 million, growing steadily to a peak of 2.66 million in 1989. However, since the early 1990s, Latvia has experienced a continuous population decline due to low birth rates, emigration, and an aging population. By 2024, the population is estimated at 1.87 million, and projections suggest it could fall to just 925,000 by 2100.
Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
- 1950s–1970s: Latvia’s population rose from 1.9 million in 1950 to over 2.4 million in 1973, supported by post-war recovery and Soviet-era growth.
- 1980s: The country reached its highest population, peaking at 2.66 million in 1989.
- 1990s: After independence in 1991, Latvia faced economic transition and significant outward migration, bringing the population down to 2.39 million by 1999.
- 2000s–2010s: The decline accelerated, with the population dropping below 2 million in 2016.
- 2024: Latvia’s population stands at 1.87 million, a sharp reduction from its late-20th-century peak.
Future Population Projections for Latvia (2025–2100)
Latvia’s demographic outlook points to continued decline through the rest of the century:
- 2030: 1.78 million
- 2050: 1.51 million
- 2075: 1.18 million
- 2100: 925,000
The main drivers are low fertility rates, sustained emigration, and an aging society, which will reduce both the working-age and total population.
FAQ
In 2024, Latvia’s population is about 1.87 million.
Latvia’s population peaked in 1989 at 2.66 million people.
Decline is driven by low birth rates, high emigration, and an aging population, especially after independence in the 1990s.
By 2050, Latvia’s population is projected to shrink to about 1.51 million.
Yes, projections show Latvia’s population could fall to around 925,000 by 2100.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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