The population of Romania will decrease to 21.6 million in 2026. The majority of the inhabitants are from urban areas and are female.

The population of Romania reached 21.646 million people on January 1, 2026, registering a decrease of 0.5% compared to the previous year, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS).

The urban population, at 55.2%, and the female population, at 51.2%, are in the majority. In urban areas, the population was approximately 11.948 million, decreasing by 0.9% compared to the first month of 2025, while in rural areas the number slightly increased, reaching 9.697 million.

The process of demographic aging continues, with a decrease in young people (0-14 years) and an increase in the elderly (65 years and over). The aging index increased from 131.7 to 136.6 elderly people per 100 young people. The average age of the population reached 43.2 years, while the median age was 44.3 years. The age group 45-49 years holds the largest share.

INS will publish detailed local data in April 2026.