Jamaica’s population grew by just 600 people in 2025, effectively recording zero population growth as declining birth rates, below-replacement fertility and continued migration reshape the country’s demographic future. According to the 2025 edition of the Economic and Social Survey Jamaica, published by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), the country’s population stood at an estimated 2,764,200 at the end of 2025, up marginally from 2,763,600 in 2024.
The figures reveal an even sharper demographic picture. Jamaica recorded 28,900 births and an estimated 21,300 deaths during the year, producing a natural increase of 7,600 people. However, net migration resulted in the loss of 7,000 people, virtually wiping out that gain. The PIOJ said Jamaica is experiencing demographic changes associated with the final stages of the demographic transition model, characterised by low fertility and low mortality rates that contribute to minimal or even negative population growth.
The trend comes amid growing concern over Jamaica’s fertility rate falling below the level required to replace the population. Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton previously said the Government is developing a National Fertility and Family Support Strategy to address some of the social and economic pressures affecting family formation. “The Government is not asking Jamaicans to have children for statistical reasons. It is committed to building conditions where family formation is genuinely affordable, structurally supported, and celebrated,” Tufton said. Proposed measures include greater financial support for families, childcare assistance, parental leave, reproductive health services and stronger parenting support.
Meanwhile, Jamaica’s population is also getting older. Although a relatively large share of residents remains within the working-age population of 15 to 64 years, the proportion of people aged 65 and over is increasing while the share of children aged 14 and under continues to decline. The PIOJ said net migration losses, below-replacement fertility and population ageing are all reshaping the country’s population structure, alongside smaller household sizes and a rise in single-person households.
With population growth virtually stalled, Jamaica now faces a long-term challenge that extends far beyond the number of babies being born. The Government and its development partners are focusing on social protection, ageing, health, education, skills training, migration and diaspora engagement, with the PIOJ stressing that investment in the country’s working-age population will be critical to sustaining economic growth as Jamaica’s demographic landscape continues to change.
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