The latest Population and Housing Census report released in Sri Lanka shows that the nation’s total population has reached 21,781,800, marking a significant increase over the past decade. Compared to the 2012 census, the population has grown by 1,422,361, highlighting a steady upward trend despite economic and social challenges faced during the intervening years.
A notable feature of the new data is the clear gender imbalance, with women now forming the majority of the population. The total number of females stands at 11,269,456, accounting for 51.7 percent, while males number 10,512,344, representing 48.3 percent. This results in a difference of 757,112 more women than men, a demographic shift that could have long-term implications for labor markets, social structures, and policy planning.
Regional distribution of the population reveals significant concentration in urban and semi-urban districts. Gampaha District records the highest population at 2,436,142, followed closely by Colombo District with 2,375,415 residents. In contrast, Mullaitivu District reports the lowest population at just 122,619, reflecting uneven development and migration patterns across the country.
Age distribution data points to an evolving demographic structure. The majority of the population, 13,353,837 individuals, falls within the working-age group of 15 to 54 years. Meanwhile, the elderly population aged 65 and above has reached 2,737,814, indicating a gradual aging trend. The child population under 14 years stands at 4,506,839, suggesting a potential slowdown in birth rates compared to previous decades.
These figures collectively highlight a nation in transition, balancing population growth with emerging challenges such as aging, gender disparity, and regional inequality, all of which are expected to shape Sri Lanka’s socio-economic trajectory in the years ahead.
