Östersunds kommun continues to struggle with its population targets, according to local reports from February 24, 2026. Municipal councilor Niklas Daoson stated that the criminal justice system and defense sector are expected to drive population growth in the area. However, conflicting reports emerged about the municipality's actual population status.
According to Länstidningen Östersund, the municipality had reached its target of 65,000 residents in mid-January of the previous year, with celebrations including cake parties at Stortorget in late May. In contrast, Östersunds-Posten reported that the population actually decreased last year for the first time since 2011, describing the municipality's goal to increase residents as progressing slowly. The reports highlight ongoing challenges in Östersund's demographic development, with local officials working to attract more residents to the area.
the criminal justice system and defense sector are expected to drive population growth in the area
the municipality had reached its target of 65,000 residents in mid-January of the previous year, with celebrations including cake parties at Stortorget in late May
the population actually decreased last year for the first time since 2011, describing the municipality's goal to increase residents as progressing slowly