A migration-driven population surge has led to the second-largest annual increase in England and Wales in over 75 years, new figures reveal. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates the population grew by 706,881 in mid-2024, reaching 61.8 million. Nearly all of this growth came from net migration, which added 690,100 people, despite a slight decline from the previous year.
The migration-driven population surge highlights a long-term trend, with immigration fueling growth every year since 1999. In contrast, natural population change births minus deaths contributed just 29,982 people. London, the South East, the West Midlands, and Eastern England were the only regions where births exceeded deaths. Other areas saw declines due to aging populations and falling birth rates.
Net migration dropped from 833,700 in 2023 to 690,100, partly because of stricter visa rules. The Conservative government had restricted foreign students and care workers from bringing dependents. However, experts say migration remains the dominant factor in population growth.
The migration-driven population surge has sparked fierce political debate. Labour criticized the previous Conservative government, accusing it of failing to control migration while neglecting domestic training programs. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper claimed Labour had already reduced net migration through tighter visa controls.
Meanwhile, the Conservatives acknowledged numbers were “far too high” and pledged stricter policies under new leadership. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called the figures “disastrous,” warning of pressure on housing, public services, and social cohesion.
Over the past decade, the East Midlands saw the highest population growth (9.1%), while the Northeast grew just 5.7%. Fertility rates also hit a record low, with women having an average of 1.44 children—far below replacement levels.
The ONS stressed that without migration, many regions would face population decline. Analysts warn that while migration supports economic growth, rapid increases risk overwhelming infrastructure. The debate over balancing workforce needs with public concerns continues to dominate UK politics.
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