Denmark has reached a significant demographic milestone, surpassing a population of 6 million residents for the first time as of May 1, 2025. According to Statistics Denmark, this growth highlights a notable shift in population dynamics, influenced increasingly by immigration rather than just natural increase.
Historical Population Growth in Denmark
Denmark’s population officially hit 6,001,008 on May 1, 2025. This landmark event recalls a previous milestone in 1973 when the population reached 5 million, marking a significant growth period of 52 years. Jonas Schytz Juul, the director of Personal Statistics at Statistics Denmark, emphasizes the importance of this development: “The population in Denmark has hit a historic milestone, as we have surpassed 6 million residents for the first time. We need to get used to saying that there are 6 million people in Denmark.”
Historically, Denmark’s population growth has primarily been driven by a natural increase, characterized by a higher number of births than deaths. However, the demographic landscape has evolved significantly over the past few decades. From 1973 to 2025, while the period saw an increase in birth rates, net immigration became a more substantial contributor to population growth.
Changing Demographics and Immigration Impact
The current demographic trends indicate a shift in how Denmark’s population is growing. Jonas Schytz Juul notes that the birth rate has been on a declining trajectory, coinciding with a notable rise in immigration. “The birth rate in Denmark has been decreasing while immigration has increased,” he explains. “Thus, immigration has had a greater influence on population growth than in the past.”
The implications of changing birth rates and rising immigration raise questions about the future of Denmark’s demographic structure. For instance, a declining birth rate could lead to an aging population, creating potential challenges for social services and workforce sustainability. As of 2025, it is critical for policymakers to develop strategies that take these demographic changes into account.
Denmark’s population reached the milestone of 1 million residents back in 1811, and since then, the overall trajectory has been one of consistent growth. Aside from a brief period of negative growth in the early 1980s due to low birth rates, the population has continued to increase. The fastest growth occurred between 1919 and 1945, when Denmark’s population surged from 3 million to 4 million in just 26 years.
This historical context sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of Denmark’s population. The ability to recover from population decline and promote sustained growth speaks to the nation’s social, economic, and migration policies over the years. There has been a concerted effort to create an inclusive environment, attracting individuals from various backgrounds to contribute to Danish society.
Current Demographic Landscape
As of 2025, Denmark’s demographic landscape consists not only of native Danes but increasingly of immigrants from diverse backgrounds. Factors contributing to this growth include global migration trends, regional conflicts, and Denmark’s longstanding reputation for a high standard of living and quality of life. The country’s policies aimed at supporting integration and diversity have played a crucial role in shaping the current population makeup.
As Denmark enjoys this momentous occasion of surpassing 6 million inhabitants, it faces the need for forward-thinking policies that prepare the country for future challenges. Addressing the potential impacts of an aging population, ensuring adequate resources for public services, and fostering economic growth through an inclusive labor market are all pressing concerns.
