Population aged 16-29

Population aged 16-29 by area	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023
Shetland	15.0%	14.7%	14.6%	14.6%	14.0%	14.0%
Scotland	17.7%	17.5%	17.3%	16.9%	16.9%	16.9%

The population of 16-29 year olds in Shetland has declined from 2018 to 2023 going from 15% to 14%. Over the years between 2019 and 2021 the population remained fairly static; decreasing by 0.3% to 14.7% in 2019, by a further 0.1% in 2020 to 14.6% and staying the same in 2021 at 14.6%. In 2022 and 2023, the population of 16-29 year olds dropped slightly to 14%. The trend is similar to that of Scotland as a whole, with Scotland’s 16-29 population remaining at 16.9% since 2021.

The birth rate for Scotland is lower than the rest of the UK, which could be a factor behind the decreasing trends in the 16-29 population. Similarly the pattern of inward migration may have changed due to Brexit; it is anticipated that rural areas such as Shetland may be disproportionately affected by changes to migration trends, due to the prominence of sectors which previously had a high dependence on migrant workers (e.g. hospitality, health, social care, processing, aquaculture).

Attracting people to live, work, study and invest in Shetland is a core aim of Community Planning Partners, and the Promote Shetland service is one of the key measures to support talent attraction and growth. The service aims to promote the various opportunities for productive lifestyles, career growth and wellbeing in Shetland as a means to attract young people to the isles.

Last updated: December 2024