Europe Ireland Population: An Overview of the Irish Demographic
Ireland is a small island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of the United Kingdom. It is the second-largest island in the British Isles and the third-largest in Europe. Ireland is home to approximately 6.4 million people, making it the second-most populous island in Europe after the United Kingdom. The population of Ireland is composed of a mix of native Irish, British, and other European ethnicities.
The population of Ireland has experienced significant growth in recent decades, largely due to migration from other parts of Europe. The population of Ireland increased from 4.2 million in 1971 to 6.4 million in 2016, representing an increase of over 50%. This population growth has been driven largely by immigration from other European countries, particularly Poland, Lithuania, and Romania.
The population of Ireland is also aging rapidly. The median age of the Irish population is 38.4 years, up from 27.6 in 1971. This aging population is due to a combination of factors, including increased life expectancy, lower fertility rates, and migration from other parts of Europe.
The population of Ireland is also becoming increasingly urbanized. Over 70% of the population now lives in urban areas, compared to just over 50% in 1971. Dublin is the capital and largest city in Ireland, with a population of over 1.2 million people. Other large cities in Ireland include Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford.
The population of Ireland is also becoming increasingly diverse. Over 20% of the population is now foreign-born, with the largest immigrant groups coming from Poland, the United Kingdom, and Lithuania.
The population of Ireland is projected to continue to grow in the coming decades, reaching 8 million by 2051. This population growth is expected to be driven largely by immigration from other European countries, as well as natural population growth.
Despite the population growth, Ireland remains one of the least densely populated countries in Europe. The population density of Ireland is just 66 people per square kilometer, compared to an average of 116 people per square kilometer in the European Union. This low population density has helped to create a unique and beautiful landscape in Ireland, as well as a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
Ireland is a vibrant and diverse country, with a population that is growing and changing rapidly. The Irish population is composed of a mix of native Irish, British, and other European ethnicities, and is becoming increasingly urbanized and diverse. Ireland is projected to continue to experience population growth in the coming decades, driven largely by migration from other parts of Europe.