Poland Population 2026

Overview

Poland, a high-income country in the Europe & Central Asia region, is facing a demographic decline. Over the past decade, the population has contracted at an average annual rate of -0.39%, reflecting challenges such as low fertility rates and emigration. The most recent year-on-year change of -0.35% indicates a continued, albeit slightly moderated, shrinking trend compared to the longer-term average.

This population decrease places Poland among several European nations experiencing negative natural growth and net outmigration. Despite its high-income status, the country's demographic dynamics are influenced by factors like an aging population and labor migration to wealthier Western European economies.

Within the regional context, Poland's population decline is notable due to its size—it remains one of the larger countries in the European Union by population, even with the contraction. The global rank of #42 highlights its relative demographic weight, though the negative growth trend suggests a gradual decrease in its global standing over time.

The 10-year average growth rate of -0.39% underscores the persistence of this decline, which has implications for the country's economy, social services, and labor market. While the latest figure of 36,559,233 shows a modest decrease from prior years, the trend underscores a structural demographic challenge that high-income countries in the region often face.

Key Facts

• Poland's 2025 population is 36,559,233.
• The country experienced a 1-year population growth rate of -0.35% in 2025.
• The 10-year average annual population growth rate for Poland is -0.39%.
• Poland ranks 42nd globally by population size.
• The country is classified as a high-income economy within the Europe & Central Asia region.
• Poland's population is declining, with both the 1-year and 10-year growth rates negative.