The UK’s population reached an estimated 69.5 million in the year to mid-2025, the Office for National Statistics has said, with growth slowing to its weakest pace since the pandemic.
Figures show the population grew by 227,700 (0.3%) over the year, down sharply from previous years’ increases, as net international migration fell to 222,900, from 651,700 the year before. This was the slowest growth rate since 1998 (ignoring 2020 during the pandemic). The slowdown was driven mainly by fewer non-EU nationals arriving for work, with immigration down to 886,200 arrivals while emigration rose to 663,400.
Growth varied across the UK: England’s population rose 0.39%, Scotland and Northern Ireland both grew more modestly, while Wales recorded a small decline. Births fell to 652,400, the lowest number in 43 years, while deaths were broadly stable, leaving natural change of just 4,900.
The population also continued to age, with the median age rising to 40.9 and the proportion of people aged 65 and over increasing in every UK nation, while the number of children fell.
Slower population growth and a smaller pool of new arrivals may make recruitment harder in sectors that have relied on migrant labour, while an ageing customer base could shift demand towards services aimed at older consumers. Individuals nearing retirement may also want to review pension and succession plans in light of the UK’s changing age profile.