Kosovo Population 2026

As of 2025, Kosovo's population is estimated at 1,594,353, reflecting a continued decline. The country has experienced a 1-year growth rate of -5.25% and a 10-year average annual growth rate of -1.28%, placing it among the fastest-shrinking populations globally. Kosovo is classified as an upper middle income country in the Europe & Central Asia region.

Population
1,594,353
Estimate for 2026
Global rank
#152
Among all countries
1-year growth
-5.25%
10-year avg growth
-1.28%
Region
Europe & Central Asia
Income group
Upper middle income

Population Trend (Kosovo)

Population by Decade

Population milestones

How Kosovo's population changed across key years (World Bank estimates).

19901,973,790
20001,802,493-8.68% since 1990
20101,788,743-0.76% since 2000
20201,790,151++0.08% since 2010
20241,594,353-10.94% since 2020

Overview

Kosovo, located in the Europe & Central Asia region, has a population of 1,594,353 as of 2025, which ranks it 152nd globally by size. The country's demographic trends are characterized by a sharp population decline, with a 1-year growth rate of -5.25% and a 10-year average annual decline of -1.28%. This negative growth is driven by factors such as high emigration rates, particularly among young adults seeking economic opportunities abroad, and a declining birth rate. As an upper middle income economy, Kosovo faces challenges in retaining its population, with significant outmigration affecting both its labor force and age structure. The population decline is notable compared to other countries in the region, where some nations are experiencing modest growth or stagnation.

Key Facts

  • Kosovo's estimated population in 2025 is 1,594,353.
  • The 1-year population growth rate for 2025 is -5.25%.
  • Over the past 10 years, the average annual growth rate has been -1.28%.
  • Kosovo holds the global population rank of 152nd.
  • The country is classified as an upper middle income economy in the Europe & Central Asia region.
  • Kosovo's population has been declining at a rate that places it among the fastest-shrinking countries worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Kosovo in 2025?
The estimated population of Kosovo in 2025 is 1,594,353.
Is Kosovo's population growing or declining?
Kosovo's population is declining, with a 1-year growth rate of -5.25% and a 10-year average annual decline of -1.28%.
What is Kosovo's global population rank?
Kosovo is ranked 152nd in the world by population size as of 2025.
What is the 10-year average population growth rate for Kosovo?
The 10-year average annual population growth rate for Kosovo is -1.28%.
What income group is Kosovo in?
Kosovo is classified as an upper middle income country.

Data sources & terms