North Macedonia, a landlocked country in the Balkans, has undergone major demographic changes over the past seven decades. The nation’s population grew steadily during the mid-20th century, peaked in the early 2000s, and has since entered a gradual decline. By 2024, the population is estimated at 1.82 million people. Projections suggest that the population will continue to shrink, reaching under 900,000 by 2100, reflecting broader demographic challenges in the region such as low birth rates, migration, and aging populations.
Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
From 1950, when the population stood at 1.25 million, North Macedonia experienced strong growth through the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. By the mid-1990s, the population surpassed 2 million, reaching its historical peak around 2005 at just over 2.09 million.
Key Milestones
| Year | Population (‘000s) |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 1,249 |
| 1970 | 1,664 |
| 1990 | 2,064 |
| 2005 | 2,090 (peak) |
| 2024 | 1,823 |
Since 2005, the population has declined by over 250,000 people due to emigration and natural decrease.
Future Population Projections for Nepal (2025–2100)
North Macedonia is projected to face continued population decline throughout the 21st century. By 2050, the population is expected to fall to about 1.51 million, and by 2100, only around 863,000 people will remain — less than half of today’s size.
Projection Highlights
| Year | Population (‘000s) |
|---|---|
| 2030 | 1,762 |
| 2050 | 1,513 |
| 2075 | 1,158 |
| 2100 | 863 |
This trend reflects low fertility, outward migration, and an aging demographic profile, posing challenges for the country’s economy and workforce.
FAQ
The population of North Macedonia in 2024 is about 1.82 million people.
The population peaked in 2005 at just over 2.09 million people.
The decline is driven by low birth rates, emigration of young workers, and an aging population.
By 2050, the population is projected to be around 1.51 million.
By 2100, projections suggest the population will shrink to about 863,000 people.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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