Deaths projected to outnumber births in UK every year from 2026
Deaths in the UK are projected to outnumber births each year starting from 2026, leading to slower population growth and a peak around 2054 before a gradual decline, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) projections. The revised outlook reflects lower fertility rates and a sharp drop in net migration, with population expected to reach 72.5 million by 2054 before falling to 71.4 million by 2074. Net migration is expected to be the sole driver of population growth over the coming decades. The aging population will see pensioners make up 22% of the total by mid-century, increasing pressure on the pension system.
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About 1.7 million people are projected to join the population between 2024 and 2034, less than the previous figure of 3 million. Photograph: kieferpix/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenAbout 1.7 million people are projected to join the population between 2024 and 2034, less than the previous figure of 3 million. Photograph: kieferpix/Getty ImagesPopulationDeaths projected to outnumber births in UK every year from 2026Latest ONS figures also suggest lower population growth in coming decades than previously expectedNadeem BadshahTue 28 Apr 2026 18.42 EDTLast modified on Tue 28 Apr 2026 18.50 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleDeaths are projected to outnumber births in the UK every year from 2026 and the population is expected to grow at a slower rate over the next few decades than…
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