Demographic Shifts in the European Union: A Deep Dive into Ageing Trends

As of January 1, 2025, the median age of the European Union's population reached 44.9 years, indicating that half of the EU's population is older than this age. This marks an increase of 2.1 years since 2015, when the median age was 42.8 years. The age distribution varies significantly across member states, with Ireland having the youngest median age at 39.6 years and Italy the oldest at 49.1 years. Notably, the median age of the native-born population in the EU is 45.2 years, compared to 43.1 years for the foreign-born population.

Median age in the EU increased by 2.1 years since 2015Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age DeclinesLatvia's median age rises to 44 years, population down by 14,000Albania has the youngest population in the EU/Turkey, with the lowest median age in Europe. Italy ranks last.

The ageing trend is particularly pronounced in Slovakia and Cyprus, where the median age increased by 4.0 years. Other countries with significant increases include Italy (+3.9 years), Greece and Poland (+3.8 years each), and Portugal (+3.7 years). Conversely, Germany and Malta are exceptions to this trend, with both countries experiencing a slight decline in median age by 0.4 years since 2015. Malta's demographic stability is attributed to continued inward migration, which has helped maintain its median age.

Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age DeclinesMedian age in the EU increased by 2.1 years since 2015Albania has the youngest population in the EU/Turkey, with the lowest median age in Europe. Italy ranks last.Latvia's median age rises to 44 years, population down by 14,000

Latvia's median age rose to 44.4 years as of January 1, 2025, reflecting a 1.7-year increase since 2015. The country has also faced a decline in population, with a decrease of 14,000 people attributed to negative natural population change. In 2025, Latvia recorded 11,637 births, a 9.7% decline from the previous year, while deaths decreased by 3.7% to 25,677. The number of marriages increased by 4.7%, indicating some demographic shifts despite the overall population decline.

Latvia's median age rises to 44 years, population down by 14,000

The ageing population across the EU presents significant challenges for labor markets, health systems, and pension schemes. Countries with older populations may need to implement policies that stimulate fertility and facilitate the integration of younger individuals into the economy. The demographic changes underscore the necessity for strategic planning to address the implications of an ageing society.

Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age Declines

Critics argue that the increasing median age could exacerbate existing issues related to workforce shortages and healthcare demands. The demographic shifts may necessitate urgent policy interventions to ensure sustainable economic growth and social stability.

Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age Declines

• “For now, though, Malta stands out as one of the few countries where the population hasn’t grown older, at least not yet.” — Eurostat Report

Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age Declines

• “This aging population has important consequences for the labor market, health systems, and pensions, underlining the need for policies that stimulate fertility and the integration of young people into the economy.” — Demographic Study

Albania has the youngest population in the EU/Turkey, with the lowest median age in Europe. Italy ranks last.

The demographic landscape of the European Union is undergoing significant changes, characterized by an ageing population. While some countries like Malta manage to defy this trend, the overall implications for society, economy, and policy are profound and require immediate attention.

Malta Defies EU Ageing Trend As Median Age Declines