Kosovo census reveals population decline and ageing trend

Pristina, December 19, 2024 - Kosovo’s population has fallen to approximately 1.6 million, according to results from the 2024 census released on Thursday. This marks a decline from 1.74 million recorded in the 2011 census.

Officials attribute part of the drop to a political boycott of the census in northern Kosovo. “The majority of the population in the north refused to participate due to political influence,” said Avni Kastrati, Director of the Kosovo Agency of Statistics. The final count, which includes population estimates for northern municipalities, stands at 1,602,515.

Ageing population raises concerns

The data reveals an ageing trend in Kosovo, with the number of people aged 65 and over reaching double digits for the first time. “The proportion of children under 14 has decreased, while the 15-64 age group has grown by 1.83%. However, the rise in the elderly population has significant implications for social policies and care systems,” Mr. Kastrati noted.

Urban shift and housing boom

Urbanisation is on the rise, with 50% of the population now living in cities—an increase of 12.2% over the past decade. Population density has fallen from 160 inhabitants per square kilometre in 2021 to 147 due to the overall decline in numbers.

Despite the demographic drop, housing development has surged, with a 21.5% increase in new buildings, apartments, and homes since 2011. Currently, 93% of homes are owner-occupied, while the remainder are rented or used through other arrangements.

Ethnic and religious composition stable

The ethnic structure remains largely unchanged, with Albanians making up 91.76% of the population. Serbs account for 2.31%, followed by Bosniaks (1.69%), Turks (1.22%), and smaller groups such as Roma, Ashkali, and Gorani.

Religious affiliations also show little variation: 93.49% identify as Muslim, 2.31% as Orthodox, and 1.75% as Catholic.

Legacy of conflict

The census highlighted the enduring impact of the 1998-1999 war, with 154,000 families reporting damages to their homes and property. The estimated financial toll exceeds €5 billion.

Kosovo’s demographic shifts, coupled with its ageing population, pose challenges for policymakers as the country grapples with migration, urbanisation, and social care demands.