United Kingdom (Parliament Politics magazine) – The UK population surged by over 755,000 between mid-2023 and mid-2024, marking the second-largest annual increase since 1949, driven predominantly by net international migration. England recorded faster growth compared to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland during this period.
Population Reaches 69.3 Million in Mid-2024
As reported by the BBC and Sky News on 26 September 2025, the latest ONS estimates indicate the UK population reached approximately 69.3 million in mid-2024, a rise from 68.5 million in mid-2023. This 1.1% increase represents the second-largest annual numerical rise on record since comparable records began in 1949.
The largest annual jump was the previous year, with an increase of about 890,000 between mid-2022 and mid-2023.
Net International Migration Drives Growth
Net international migration contributed 98% of the total population growth, with approximately 1,235,000 arrivals and 496,000 departures, resulting in a net migration of over 738,000 (ONS: 2025; BBC: 2025).
Natural growth (births minus deaths) added only about 16,000 to the population, the births being at their lowest level in over 40 years and deaths at a low not seen since before the Covid-19 pandemic surge in 2019.
Regional Population Growth Variations
England has experienced the fastest growth at 1.2%, outpacing Scotland (0.7%), Wales (0.6%), and Northern Ireland (0.4%). Both Scotland and Wales saw more deaths than births during this period, partially due to older population demographics.
The population ageing differences influence regional mortality and birth rates, with England’s younger demographic profile helping it sustain a higher growth rate.
Demographic Implications and Challenges
Nigel Henretty, Senior Statistician at the ONS, commented,
“The UK population has increased every year since mid-1982, and migration continues to be the key driver sustaining that growth. This recent surge underscores ongoing demographic shifts”.
The growing population raises challenges for infrastructure, housing, healthcare, and social services across the UK, particularly in urban areas experiencing increased demand.
Future Population Projections
Long-term ONS projections anticipate the UK population increasing to around 77 million by 2046 with net migration playing a critical role, especially as natural change becomes negative beyond 2030.
If net migration rates decrease significantly, some regions could experience population decline, particularly Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, necessitating adaptive regional planning.
Public Policy and Migration Trends
Government figures released earlier this year indicate a reduction in net migration from recent peaks, with a fall in study and work-related arrivals reflected in 2024 data. Despite this, migration numbers remain above historical averages from the 2010s.
The ONS and migration analysts agree that migration levels remain the principal factor shaping UK population dynamics and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
The UK’s population growth to 69.3 million, with its second-largest annual increase in 75 years, highlights the dominant role migration plays in shaping the nation’s demographic future. While natural birth rates decline, international migration ensures continued expansion, particularly in England.
Policy makers face significant challenges in managing population growth sustainably, balancing demands on housing, health, services, and infrastructure towards a changing demographic landscape.