A new population horizon
The Community of Madrid has reached a historic milestone by surpassing seven million inhabitants for the first time, establishing itself as one of the most dynamic regions in Spain. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the population of Madrid increased by more than 57,000 people in the last year, reaching a total of over 7.1 million as of January 1, 2026.
One of the key factors behind this growth is the significant increase in the number of births. In 2025, Madrid recorded 52,450 births, representing a 3.3% increase compared to the previous year and the highest figure in six years. This surge not only surpasses the national average, which stands at a modest 1%, but also marks a positive trend since 2013.
Aside from natural growth, the constant influx of foreign citizens has been crucial to this demographic phenomenon. Currently, more than 1.2 million residents in Madrid are originally from other countries, accounting for approximately 70% of the recent population increase. This migratory flow has revitalised both large cities and small rural municipalities.
Miguel Ángel García Martín, regional councillor, highlighted that this data reflects a profound change in demographic trends: "We have reversed the demographic winter that our region and our country were experiencing." The policies implemented by the regional government to promote birth rates and support families seem to be bearing fruit.
Not only the large urban areas are experiencing this boom; even the smaller municipalities have seen notable growth. Towns with fewer than 2,500 inhabitants have grown by 15.77% since before the pandemic. This contrasts with other parts of the country where growth is much more limited.
As Madrid moves towards a projected population of over eight million by 2039, it also faces significant challenges related to an aging population. It is estimated that the centenarian population will double in the next thirteen years, and one in eight Madrilenians will be over 75 years old.
Despite the ongoing and positive growth, García Martín warns of the urgent need to adapt public services to this new demographic reality: "We are working with each of the departments to address these challenges." The Community is determined to remain a magnet for new residents while effectively managing its social transformation.
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