Iceland’s population grows by over 2,000 in second quarter of 2023

The population of Iceland has increased by over 2,000 people in the second quarter of this year. According to new statistics from Statistics Iceland, there were a total of 386,970 residents in the country at the end of June, reflecting an updated and improved method of calculating the population.

The population grew by 2,230 during the second quarter, with 1,090 births and 640 deaths, resulting in a natural increase of 450 individuals. Additionally, 1,780 more people immigrated to Iceland than left during this period. Among the newcomers, 180 are Icelandic nationals and 1,600 are foreign citizens. In contrast, 3,680 people departed the country in the same quarter, with a notable excess of males leaving compared to females.

In terms of gender demographics, there are now 198,360 men compared to 188,420 women, alongside 180 individuals identifying as non-binary or another gender. Foreign nationals, who constitute 17% of the total population, numbered 65,870 at the end of June.

Approximately 63% of Iceland’s population resides in the capital region, totaling 246,770 people, compared to 140,200 who live in rural areas. Statistics Iceland noted that their methodology for calculating the population has been improved, now incorporating a broader base of public data, including tax records and student data, alongside the national register.