Poland is depopulating at a record pace. Łódź and Bydgoszcz are losing residents, Kraków surprises

As of June 2026, Poland's population decreased to 37.24 million, marking a loss of 90,000 from the previous year. The natural decrease, with deaths exceeding births by 95,200, significantly contributes to this trend. Major cities like Łódź and Bydgoszcz experienced notable population declines, primarily due to natural loss rather than emigration. In contrast, Kraków saw a population increase of 2,879, driven by positive migration despite a slight natural decrease. Overall, both urban and rural areas face negative natural growth, with births declining and deaths rising. Marriage rates increased slightly, while immigration surpassed emigration, indicating a complex demographic landscape.