WILLEMSTAD – The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) has published the recalculated population figures for Curaçao, using the 2023 Census as a new reference point. These figures include updates for the years 2021 through 2023, and for the first time, the official population estimate for January 1, 2025. 

The recalculation follows the standard practice of conducting a census every ten years to ensure accurate demographic data. The population count derived from the 2023 Census has now been used to revise annual estimates that were previously based solely on administrative data. 

Key Figures 

According to the new estimates, the population of Curaçao on January 1, 2025 stands at 156,115 people. Of these, 70,310 are men and 85,805 are women, giving a sex ratio of 81.9 men per 100 women. 

The data also shows the following year-over-year population figures: 

2020: 156,223 

2021 (recalculated): 154,741 

2022 (recalculated): 153,154 

2023 (recalculated): 153,488 

2024 (new estimate): 155,819 

2025 (new estimate): 156,115 

Migration and COVID Impact 

CBS notes that several key events affected the population trends over recent years. The closure of the Isla Refinery prompted outward migration, while the COVID-19 pandemic also played a significant role—many foreign nationals returned to their home countries during the early stages of the crisis. 

As borders reopened and the economy began to recover post-pandemic, there was a renewed influx of people moving to Curaçao. This partially reversed the earlier declines. 

Improved Data Collection and Integration 

In recent years, the government has launched initiatives to better integrate migrants into society and improve data collection regarding their presence and activities on the island. For the population figures in years without a census, CBS uses data from the Civil Registry (Kranshi), including births, deaths, immigration, and emigration. For this recalculation, additional data sources were also used, such as police detention records, airport arrivals and departures, and tourism statistics. 

The updated figures aim to provide a clearer demographic picture for policymakers and the public, helping to guide planning and development in Curaçao.