Rural areas in Spain continue to gain population, consolidating a seven-year streak of demographic growth. According to the latest municipal population register, towns and villages with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants recorded an increase of more than 22,000 residents in the most recent year, confirming a positive trend that began in 2018.

Since then, small municipalities have welcomed over 163,000 new residents, driven mainly by inward migration from other parts of the country as well as from abroad. Nearly 69,000 people moved to rural areas in the last year alone, exceeding the figures recorded in the previous period.

The year 2018 marked a turning point after decades of rural population decline caused by ageing and the outflow of young people and women. Although natural population balance remains negative, sustained positive migration has helped reverse long-standing demographic losses across much of the countryside.

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Spain’s rural population grows for the seventh consecutive year

At present, almost 80% of rural municipalities show a positive migration balance. This growth is widespread and not limited to specific regions, reaching even the smallest and most remote villages. The trend is also accompanied by an increase in employment, particularly among women, strengthening the social and economic foundations of rural communities.

Foreign residents have contributed to this growth, although their share of the population in small municipalities remains below the national average. In most rural areas, foreign nationals account for less than 5% of the total population.

This demographic recovery is closely linked to public policies addressing the demographic challenge, supported by significant investment in recent years. Key initiatives include funding for innovative rural projects, the creation of a network of territorial innovation centres, energy efficiency and sustainability programmes, support for the local bioeconomy, and schemes aimed at attracting and retaining young talent in rural areas.