Births in Sweden drop to lowest levels of the 2000s as demographic projections shift

The number of newborns in Sweden has significantly decreased in the first half of the year, with only 50,500 births recorded. This marks the lowest population increase of the 2000s, according to recent data. Projections by Statistics Sweden suggested around 130,000 births for 2027, but the current trends indicate a drop to approximately 95,000, representing a substantial decline.

This reduction in birth rates is expected to impact the number of preschools needed across Sweden, with municipalities and regions anticipating a 12% decrease in preschool capacity—equating to around 1,000 fewer facilities by 2027. Long-term implications include fewer schools needed in five to six years, as children currently not born would eventually reach school age.

The Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SKR) has based its forecasts on anticipated population growth of 25,000 to 30,000 individuals per year over the next decade. However, the actual increase of just 1,600 in the first half of this year is far below expectations. Larger cities and suburban municipalities, accustomed to rapid population growth, may face severe challenges, particularly those with ambitious housing and infrastructure plans. These municipalities could struggle to justify new developments with diminishing population figures.