Ireland’s population grew by almost 67,000 people in the year to April 2026, bringing the number of people living in the State to more than 5.5m, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

The population increased by 66,900, or 1.2%, during the 12-month period to reach an estimated 5,525,600.

While the pace of growth eased from the previous year, the figures highlight the continuing requirement for new housing and sustained investment in transport, utilities, healthcare, education and other essential infrastructure.

Net inward migration accounted for 72% of the annual population increase. A total of 110,600 people immigrated to Ireland during the year, while 62,500 emigrated, resulting in positive net migration of 48,100.

Immigration fell by 12% compared with the previous 12-month period, while net migration was 19% lower. However, this was the fifth successive year in which more than 100,000 people immigrated to Ireland.

Dublin’s population reached almost 1.6m, representing 28.9% of the State’s total population. The proportion living in the capital has increased from 28.3% in 2020, underlining the continued development and infrastructure pressures facing the region.

The figures also point to a changing demographic profile. The number of people aged 65 and over rose to 891,100, an increase of 165,000 since 2020. This age group now accounts for 16.1% of the population, reinforcing the growing need for accessible housing, healthcare facilities and age-friendly communities.

Meanwhile, the number of children aged between 0 and 14 fell below one million for the first time since 2014, standing at 992,400.

More than half of both immigrants and emigrants were aged between 25 and 44. Of the 62,500 people who left Ireland, 35,400 were Irish citizens, compared with 30,200 Irish citizens who returned, resulting in net outward migration of 5,200 Irish citizens.

CSO statistician Conor J Crowley said Ireland’s population was estimated at 5.526m following an increase of 66,900 during the year.

Although the latest figures show a moderation in population growth, the addition of almost 67,000 people in a single year continues to place a strong emphasis on the delivery of homes and the infrastructure required to support expanding and changing communities.

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