Renfrewshire’s population is expected to rise slightly over the next 10 years, according to new figures from National Records of Scotland (NRS).
The latest Subnational Population Projections, which look ahead to mid-2032, show Renfrewshire’s population increasing from 179,000 in 2022 to around 180,700 by 2032 – an uplift of 0.9% if past trends continue.
Across Scotland, 23 of the 32 council areas are projected to see population growth, while nine are expected to decline.
Midlothian is projected to have the fastest growth at 14.7%, while Inverclyde is forecast to see the sharpest fall at 5.4%.
In Renfrewshire, the rise will be driven almost entirely by migration, as more people are expected to move into the area than leave. Like most of Scotland, Renfrewshire is projected to see more deaths than births over the decade.
Andrew White, Head of Population and Migration Statistics at NRS, said the findings show migration is the main driver of growth across the country: “Everywhere outside Edinburgh and Midlothian is expected to see more deaths than births. If it wasn’t for migration, the population would be projected to fall.”
The report also highlights Scotland’s ageing population, with more people living into their seventies and beyond, and fewer children being born due to smaller family sizes.
Earlier this year, NRS projected Scotland’s total population will rise to 5.7 million by 2032.
| Council area | 2022 population | 2032 projected | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renfrewshire | 179,000 | 180,700 | +0.9% |
| East Renfrewshire | 97,300 | 101,700 | +4.5% |
| Glasgow City | 635,600 | 646,600 | +1.7% |
| Inverclyde | 76,900 | 72,800 | –5.4% |
Headline graphic: Gerd Altmann / Pixabay