The population of Poland has decreased by 147 thousand: which cities are losing residents

According to glavcom.ua: The largest decrease in population was recorded in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship (by 28.6 thousand people), and the smallest in the Pomeranian Voivodeship (only by 80 people).

According to the Central Statistical Office (GUS) of Poland, the country's population has decreased by 147.5 thousand people as of the beginning of 2025. All 16 provinces of the country have recorded negative demographic dynamics. This is a serious challenge for Poland and requires attention.

Cities that are losing and gaining residents

From GUS's analysis, it follows that out of 66 cities with county rights, 61 experienced a decrease in population. Łódź lost the largest number of residents - over 6,322 people, making it the leader in the anti-rating.

The most residents lost:

• Łódź - 6,322 people
• Bydgoszcz - 2,391 people
• Szczecin - 2,360 people
• Wałbrzych - 1,546 people
• Konin - 963 people

In contrast, some large cities, such as Kraków and Warsaw, noted an increase in population as they attract new residents with their employment opportunities and developed infrastructure.

Population growth has been noted in:

• Kraków (by 2,967 people)
• Warsaw (by 2,246)
• Gdańsk (by 1,280)
• Rzeszów (by 1,049)

These changes are related to the implementation of the National System of Taxpayer Registration (KSeF) for VAT payers, which will start in February 2026.

Poland is facing a decrease in population, which may have serious consequences for the country. Some cities are losing residents, while others are experiencing population growth. The attractiveness of job vacancies and developed infrastructure appear to be key factors in residents' choices.