Singapore’s Population Crosses 6 Million: What This Means for the Nation
Singapore’s population has surpassed a significant milestone, reaching 6.04 million in June 2024, reflecting a 2% increase from the previous year. This marks the first time the country’s population has crossed the six million mark, driven mainly by a 5% rise in the non-resident population, which grew from 1.77 million in 2023 to 1.86 million in 2024, according to the National Population and Talent Division (NPTD).
The increase in non-residents, including work permit holders and migrant domestic workers, is essential in filling roles that support the country’s social and economic needs. These workers, many in sectors like caregiving and construction, help address gaps that Singaporeans are less inclined to fill. Meanwhile, residents continue to move into higher-paying jobs, particularly in finance, insurance, information technology, and professional services. The labor force remains robust, with low unemployment rates among residents and citizens.
Growing Population, Fewer Births and Marriages
While the total population is growing, the report also highlights concerning trends among Singapore’s citizens. Births and marriages are both on the decline. In 2023, the number of citizen births dropped by 5.1% to 28,877, a historic low. Similarly, citizen marriages decreased slightly by 1.7% from the record high in 2022, but the overall number still exceeds pre-pandemic levels.
At the same time, Singapore’s population is aging rapidly. Citizens aged 65 and older now make up 19.9% of the population, compared to just 12.4% in 2014. The number of citizens aged 80 and above has surged by 67% over the last decade, further highlighting the country’s demographic challenges.
The Role of Non-Residents
The rise in the non-resident population is largely due to work permit holders and migrant domestic workers, who together account for more than half of this group. These individuals play crucial roles in sectors that are essential to Singapore’s development, including construction, retail, healthcare, and hospitality.
As noted by Christopher Gee, a deputy director at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), the high proportion of non-residents in Singapore is not unusual compared to other global cities like New York. However, while they help fill crucial jobs and support economic growth, the influx of non-residents naturally raises concerns about pressure on public infrastructure and resources.
On the other hand, non-residents contribute to the tax base, making Singapore’s infrastructure more fiscally sustainable in the long term. This delicate balance between growth and sustainability will be essential as Singapore continues to develop.
Future Growth Projections
At the current rate, Singapore’s population could grow to 6.37 million by 2030. The government has planned for a population size of up to 6.9 million, ensuring there are enough homes, public transport, and amenities to support this growth.
Despite concerns about the growing non-resident population, Mr. Gee pointed out that Singapore’s foreign workforce, particularly in lower-skilled jobs, is smaller compared to cities like London or New York because these workers are not allowed to bring dependents.
Social Integration and Challenges Ahead
Senior research fellow Gillian Koh from IPS emphasized the need for continued social integration, both in workplaces and communities, to manage Singapore’s growing diversity. It is equally important to ensure fair and safe working conditions for all, especially for migrant workers, as how the nation treats its non-resident population reflects its values on the world stage.
With an aging population, declining birth rates, and an increasing dependence on non-residents, Singapore faces complex challenges. As Dr. Tan Poh Lin from IPS pointed out, families will shoulder greater caregiving responsibilities in the future, making it crucial for workplaces to remain flexible and supportive of caregivers.
In this evolving landscape, how Singapore balances its demographic needs with the well-being of its population will be key to maintaining its economic resilience and social harmony.
