According to new statistics from Sweden's Statistics Bureau (SCB), Motala municipality experienced the largest population decline in Östergötland county during 2025. The municipality lost 374 residents, representing a 0.9 percent decrease in population. This decline was driven by a combination of factors including more deaths than births and more people moving out of the municipality than moving in.
Nationwide, Sweden's birth rate continued to decline in 2025, reaching historically low levels according to SCB data. The same trend was observed in Östergötland, where 4,153 children were born during the year - 90 fewer than the previous year and the lowest number since 2001.
Motala municipality experienced the largest population decline in Östergötland county during 2025. The municipality lost 374 residents, representing a 0.9 percent decrease in population.
Lovisa Sköld, a statistician at SCB, confirmed the regional figures. While Motala faced the most significant decline, some municipalities in the region saw modest population increases. Linköping grew by 679 residents, maintaining its position as Sweden's fifth largest city.
The data highlights ongoing demographic challenges in parts of Sweden, with declining birth rates and population shifts affecting regional communities differently.
Sweden's birth rate continued to decline in 2025, reaching historically low levels according to SCB data.
4,153 children were born during the year - 90 fewer than the previous year and the lowest number since 2001.