Colchester continues to grow as a city of opportunity and ambition. The latest population figures released yesterday by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that more people than ever are choosing to make Colchester their home.
The city’s population has grown to 200,222, up from 198,497 in 2023 – a 0.9% increase that reflects steady growth in line with national trends. Slightly below the 1.2% average across England and Wales.
Growth is influenced by a combination of factors, including more births than deaths, increased life expectancy, and movements from overseas or other parts of the country. This continues a longer pattern of gradual expansion seen over the last three decades, with many families who grew up in Colchester now choosing to remain and raise their own children here.
While Colchester’s university has historically attracted many international students, recent figures suggest other factors, such as demand for skilled workers in health and social care, may also be contributing to this change, alongside local job opportunities. New arrivals bring fresh skills and perspectives, helping to strengthen the economy and support local businesses, adding to Colchester’s competitiveness as a place to invest and grow.
The median age of residents has also risen slightly to 39.4 years, reflecting a balanced and maturing population.
Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “A growing population brings challenges – not least, over time, increased pressure on our infrastructure. But it is good news that Colchester remains a place people choose to call home. We can take pride in our city’s ability to attract and retain people from a range of backgrounds thanks to our rich heritage, growing economy and the exceptional quality of life that comes from living close to the city, coast, and countryside.”
Colchester’s steady population growth is helping to shape and inform the council’s Local Plan – guiding investment in new homes, transport links, and community facilities to ensure the city continues to meet the needs of all its residents. At the same time, regeneration projects in the city centre are creating opportunities for business and improving public spaces while respecting Colchester’s historic character.
These developments are part of a long-term plan to ensure Colchester remains dynamic, well-connected, and inclusive, for current residents and future generations alike.
For more information on the population statistics, visit the ONS website.
The city’s population has grown to 200,222, up from 198,497 in 2023 – a 0.9% increase that reflects steady growth in line with national trends. Slightly below the 1.2% average across England and Wales.
Growth is influenced by a combination of factors, including more births than deaths, increased life expectancy, and movements from overseas or other parts of the country. This continues a longer pattern of gradual expansion seen over the last three decades, with many families who grew up in Colchester now choosing to remain and raise their own children here.
While Colchester’s university has historically attracted many international students, recent figures suggest other factors, such as demand for skilled workers in health and social care, may also be contributing to this change, alongside local job opportunities. New arrivals bring fresh skills and perspectives, helping to strengthen the economy and support local businesses, adding to Colchester’s competitiveness as a place to invest and grow.
The median age of residents has also risen slightly to 39.4 years, reflecting a balanced and maturing population.
Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “A growing population brings challenges – not least, over time, increased pressure on our infrastructure. But it is good news that Colchester remains a place people choose to call home. We can take pride in our city’s ability to attract and retain people from a range of backgrounds thanks to our rich heritage, growing economy and the exceptional quality of life that comes from living close to the city, coast, and countryside.”
Colchester’s steady population growth is helping to shape and inform the council’s Local Plan – guiding investment in new homes, transport links, and community facilities to ensure the city continues to meet the needs of all its residents. At the same time, regeneration projects in the city centre are creating opportunities for business and improving public spaces while respecting Colchester’s historic character.
These developments are part of a long-term plan to ensure Colchester remains dynamic, well-connected, and inclusive, for current residents and future generations alike.
For more information on the population statistics, visit the ONS website.
Page last reviewed: 31 July 2025