23.01.2026
Population of Northern Ostrobothnia turned to decline for the first time in statistical history
The population of Northern Ostrobothnia has started to decline for the first time in statistical history. According to Statistics Finland's preliminary data, 418,130 inhabitants lived in the region at the end of 2025. During the year, the population decreased by a total of 201 persons, corresponding to a change of – 0.05%.
Demography is particularly due to the deepening of the loss of internal migration. The region of Northern Ostrobothnia lost a total of 1,819 inhabitants in migration to the rest of Finland, which is more than 400 persons more than in 2024 and the biggest migration loss in the history of Northern Ostrobothnia.
The exceptionally high level of net immigration in previous years has not led to a permanent settlement of the population in Northern Ostrobothnia. The migration loss between regions consists largely of persons born abroad, i.e. residents who have previously moved to Northern Ostrobothnia from abroad and who have since moved to other regions.
“The figures are moderate, but this is the first time that the sign has turned negative. The strong net migration of the current decade has led to the expectation that negative internal migration will intensify in Northern Ostrobothnia. This is emphasised in particular by the migration structure in Oulu, in which those most vulnerable to migration play an important role," says the Planning Director. Markus Erkkilä Regional Assembly of Oulu Region.
Increase in net migration and birth rate
In 2025, net immigration remained strong in Northern Ostrobothnia, totalling 1,669 persons. However, the number was about 100 fewer than in the previous year.
The development of the birth rate was also positive in the region, as in the whole country. A total of 3,822 children were born in Northern Ostrobothnia in 2025, which is nearly 200 more than one year earlier.
“In Northern Ostrobothnia, the birth rate is still higher than in the rest of the country and the population is still young, the second youngest of the regions just after Uusimaa. In general, the development of birth rates also reflects the young age structure and higher birth rates of immigrants", Markus Erkkilä points out.
However, the increase in the number of births was not enough to turn the natural demographic trend into a positive one. The number of deaths exceeded the number of births by 48 persons. The region's natural population development was negative for the fourth year in a row.
“Population development has a significant impact on the future of Northern Ostrobothnia, but it can also be affected. Young and educated people are the region's competitive advantage, which is hopefully reflected even more strongly in companies' investments. The region's investment prospects and growth in Oulu create a strong foundation, but the change in the dependency ratio and regional inequality require active action and awareness of the direction of development, says Erkkilä.
Statistics Finland's preliminary data are based on the population situation at the end of 2025 and will be refined as the final statistics are finalised.
Further information:
Markus Erkkilä, Head of Planning, Regional Assembly of Oulu Region, markus.erkkila@pohjois-pohjanmaa.fi, tel. +358 40 685 4045
Ari Näpänkangas, Senior Specialist, Regional Assembly of Oulu Region, ari.napankangas@pohjois-pohjanmaa.fi, tel. +358 50 433 3950
