Population counter

How many people live in the Netherlands?

The population counter shows the current estimated number of inhabitants in the Netherlands. This calculation is based on statistical data from the past as well as monthly birth, mortality and migration patterns. More details on the population counter can be found here: what exactly is the population counter?

How many people will live in the Netherlands in the future?

Over the coming decades, the Dutch population is projected to grow steadily and reach 20.6 million inhabitants by the year 2070. The population is expected to reach 19 million in 2037. The population is growing mainly due to migration and increased life expectancy. By 2040, a quarter of the population will be 65 or older.

The CBS forecast describes the most likely trajectory that the population will take. This is subject to uncertainty, however. For example, migration fluctuates significantly from one year to the next. Furthermore, it is uncertain whether life expectancy will continue to increase at the same rate and whether the average number of children born per woman will remain the same. Estimates indicate that by 2070 the population will be between 18.8 and 22.3 million inhabitants.