WILLEMSTAD – Population growth on Curaçao is increasingly being driven by migration rather than natural population growth, according to new figures released by the Central Bureau of Statistics Curaçao (CBS).
The island’s population grew to 158,006 residents on January 1, 2026, an increase of 1,891 people compared to the previous year.
However, the latest demographic data show that births continue to decline while migration remains the dominant growth factor.
CBS reported that 5,902 people immigrated to Curaçao during 2025, while 3,487 people left the island, resulting in a positive migration balance of 2,495 residents.
By comparison, the number of births declined significantly.
Only 1,029 children were born in 2025, 93 fewer than in 2024.
The fertility rate also declined, dropping from 7.2 births per 1,000 inhabitants in 2024 to 6.6 in 2025.
Meanwhile, the number of deaths remained relatively high, with 1,553 people passing away during the year.
The figures suggest that without migration, Curaçao’s population growth would have been much more limited.
The data also highlight Curaçao’s continuing demographic transition, including an aging population and lower fertility levels.
CBS reported that the largest number of deaths occurred among residents aged 80 to 84 years.
The average age of mothers remained stable at approximately 29.4 years old, with women between 30 and 34 years accounting for the highest number of births.
Demographic trends are considered increasingly important for policymakers because they directly affect healthcare demand, education planning, labor markets, pensions, housing, and long-term economic development.