The council areas in Scotland with highest population growth and decline projections - new figures
The latest National Records of Scotland (NRS) analysis shows migration has been - and will continue to be - a major driver in population changes for most parts of the country.
Scotland’s overall population grew by 4 percent to 5.46 million between mid-2009 and the end of June 2019, with a further 2 percent growth projected in the decade up to mid-2028 to 5.54 million.
Here, we list the variation in projected population changes between Scotland’s council areas in terms of highest growth and decline, for the decade up to 2028.
It is worth noting these predictions do not take into account recent changes, such as the increase in deaths due to Covid-19 or the changes to migration as a result of travel restrictions imposed during the pandemic.
Here, we list the variation in projected population changes between Scotland’s council areas in terms of highest growth and decline, for the decade up to 2028.
13. Aberdeen
A 1.1% population growth is projected in Aberdeen, a slow from the 5.4% growth experienced from mid-2009 to mid-2019. The predicted growth is still lower than the Scottish average of 2%. Photo: Ross Parker/SNS
14. Perth & Kinross
A 1% growth in population is projected in Perth & Kinross. Photo: Stephen McCluskey
15. Scottish Borders
A 1% population growth is projected in the Scottish Borders, a slight decrease from the 1.7% growth seen between mid-2009 and mid-2019. Photo: Victor Denovan
16. Orkney
Orkney is predicted to experience a 0.5% population growth, a significant slow down from the 6.4% growth seen from mid-2009 to mid-2019. Photo: JPI Media