Population

Population statistics refer to numerical data on the population that is the subject of observation, and serve as a basis for analysis of demographic and social changes and tendencies that influence structural population changes.

Population changes are usually a result of the direct influence of natural changes (births and deaths) and mechanical changes (migration).

Sources of data on population and households are the Censuses which were carried out in 1921, 1931, 1948, 1953, 1961, 1971, 1981, 1991, 1994, 2002 and 2021, according to uniform methodologies and forms for all Census areas.

Estimated mid-year population figures are based on Census results and data on natural population increase, and since 1992 the estimations include the data on mechanical increase.

Registration of vital events (births, deaths and marriages) can be defined as registration of a person from his/her birth to the end of life, including changes of personal status (marital status). Migration of population, as one of the components of the population development, has dual implications over the demographic situation of an area or territory.
 Migrations directly influence the increase or decrease in population size (depending on whether the net migration is positive or negative). Besides changing the population size, considering the relatively higher proportion of the young and reproductively capable people, migrations are changing the age and sex structure of the population, and indirectly influence the intensity of the natural growth of the population.

Starting from 2004, the vital statistics data cover the vital events occurring only within the territory of the Republic of North Macedonia. All indicators related to vital events are calculated on the basis of this methodology.