Catalina Espinosa
Research expert covering society, economy, and politics for Europe and the EU
Aging population in Italy - statistics & facts
Given its ongoing demographic crisis, Italy has the second-oldest population in the world and is the oldest country in Europe. While life expectancy has risen due to high living standards and quality healthcare, birth rates have plummeted, leading to a rapidly aging population. The share of residents aged 65 and over has been constantly expanding since the 2000s and Italians’ median age could surpass 50 by mid-century. Although longevity reflects overall well-being, an aging population imposes significant economic and social burdens on public finances and younger generations.
Aging population absorbs a large portion of public resources and hinders Italy’s future economic growth. Therefore, strong policy measures are required to support fertility, while continuing to ensure high-quality care and services for the elderly.
High average age and longer life expectancy
High life expectancy combined with low birth rates are among the main causes of population aging. As of 2025, around a quarter of Italy’s population is aged 65 or older, a figure that has been rising steadily since 2009. The average age has also increased and is projected to grow further. Thanks to high living standards and widespread access to public healthcare, Italians are living longer than ever. Italy consistently ranks among the countries with the highest life expectancy at birth, well over 80 years, with women expected to live beyond 85. However, regional differences exist. Liguria and Sardinia have the oldest populations and lowest birth rates, while Trentino-South Tyrol and Campania are the youngest, with average ages approximately three years below Italy’s mean.The demographic crisis
In contrast, birth rates are declining and the number of babies born in 2023 marked a new negative record, falling below 400,000 births. With one of the world’s lowest fertility rates, Italy’s old-age index is rapidly increasing. In 2025, there are more than two elderly people for every person aged below 14. Thus, the population is not only aging, but also shrinking, with Italy losing about two million residents over a decade. Natural population growth has recorded negative rates for almost 20 years, while immigration has not reversed the trend. These developments pose serious risks to both the welfare system and the economy.Economic consequences
As the population ages, the working-age population is also falling, putting additional burdens on the national welfare system. With fewer workers, the state collects less taxes to fund services such as public healthcare and long-term care, while the demand for them grows due to the more elderly population. Hence, taxpayers need to pay more to support an increasingly economically inactive population. As a result, social protection and healthcare together account for more than half of total government spending.Aging population absorbs a large portion of public resources and hinders Italy’s future economic growth. Therefore, strong policy measures are required to support fertility, while continuing to ensure high-quality care and services for the elderly.
