WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao is experiencing a significant demographic shift as its population continues to age, with fewer young people than ever before, according to preliminary results from the 2023 Census published by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The data highlights a growing number of older adults and a declining percentage of individuals under the age of 15. 

As of 2023, nearly a quarter of Curaçao’s population is 65 years or older. In contrast, this figure was just under 14% in 2011 and a mere 5% in 1960. The island’s median age has risen to over 45 years, attributed to declining birth rates and increased life expectancy due to advancements in healthcare and healthier lifestyles. 

The proportion of young people under 15 years old has dropped from almost 20% in 2011 to slightly over 14% in 2023. This decline, referred to as "dejuvenation," impacts the population pyramid, narrowing its base and highlighting the demographic imbalance. 

Population Growth and Migration 

Despite the aging trend, Curaçao’s total population grew by 3.5% over 12 years, reaching nearly 156,000 residents in 2023. Migration has played a significant role in this growth, with notable increases in residents of Venezuelan and Colombian descent. Still, a majority of the population—75.4%—was born in Curaçao. 

Household Size Declines 

Another notable change is the decrease in the average household size, which fell from 2.7 persons in 2011 to 2.5 persons in 2023. 

Implications for the Future 

The CBS emphasizes that these trends could have far-reaching consequences for Curaçao’s future, particularly in areas such as healthcare, employment, and education. As the population ages and household sizes shrink, policymakers will need to address the challenges posed by these demographic shifts to ensure sustainable growth and development for the island.