Madeira Faces Record Migration & Vanishing Youth, as Women Outnumber Men

Positive Migration Trends Mask Concerns Over Youth Exodus

Recent statistics reveal that while Madeira's overall population has seen an increase, significant demographic shifts raise concerns about the region's future. The proportion of young residents under the age of 15 has declined to 12.2%, down from 12.5% in 2022 and 12,8% in 2021.

On the opposite side, the percentage of seniors aged 65 and older has risen to 20.9%. Besides a low birth rate and an aging society, this highlights the challenges Madeira faces in retaining its youth, many of whom are leaving for educational and employment opportunities elsewhere.

Number of Elderly People Per 100 Young People Over The Years

See the significant shift in population dynamics in Madeira over the years, characterized by an increasing number of seniors and a declining youth population.

Madeira Has More Women Than Men

Also notable is that Madeira has about 14,600 more women than men. Based on the difference between the number of women and men relative to the number of men, women are outnumbering men by more than 12%.

• ♂️ Male Population: 120,996 (47.14%)

• ♀️ Female Population: 135,626 (52.86%)

• ▶️ Total Population: 256,622

Record Migration Since 1981 Highlights Growing Population

The most recent data from the Regional Directorate of Statistics of Madeira indicates a net migration balance of 3,592 people in 2023, the highest recorded since 1981. This increase contributes to a total resident population of approximately 256,622 as of the end of 2023, reflecting a growth in Population Variation of 2,552 people since the previous year. The net migration has been positive for six consecutive years, with only a brief decline in 2021, largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Air Travel Data Suggests Increased Departures

Despite the positive migration balance, air travel statistics point to a different trend. In 2023, more residents departed from Madeira than arrived, marking a concerning shift in the travel patterns of the island's inhabitants. This year alone, the airports have reported a greater number of passengers boarding flights to mainland Portugal and the United Kingdom compared to those disembarking. The potential for this trend to reflect increased emigration among younger residents can be felt (though not proven), even as tourists continue to visit the region.

Rising Passport Issuance Indicates Potential Emigration

The surge in passport issuance is another indicator of changing dynamics. In 2022, over 22,000 passports were issued, a significant increase attributed to both migration trends and tourism. The rise in documents necessary for international travel suggests that more Madeirans may be looking beyond the archipelago for opportunities. While it is difficult to definitively conclude that this points to a rise in emigration, it does reflect a growing desire among residents to explore life outside Madeira.

Doing hospitality without thinking about immigrants is totally impossible

José Theotónio (Pestana CEO) - Jornal de Negocios

Aging Population Raises Concerns for the Future

The demographic trends in Madeira paint a complex picture. While the region has managed to increase its overall population, the continued decline in the youth demographic and the simultaneous rise in the elderly population pose serious questions about the long-term viability of the local economy. The youth population's exodus could ultimately lead to a diminished workforce and a less dynamic economy, exacerbating the challenges posed by an aging populace. As Madeira navigates these issues, the balance between retaining its youth and attracting newcomers remains crucial for the region's future. It explains, why major CEOs and the president called for additional immigration of cheap labor workforce.

Sources:
Diário de Notícias da Madeira
DREM