Singapore’s population has reached a historic milestone of 6.11 million people as of June 2025, representing a 1.2 percent increase from the previous year. This growth marks the highest population level ever recorded in the city-state and is primarily attributed to an expansion in the non-resident population, particularly foreign workers supporting key infrastructure projects.
Non-Resident Population Surge Fuels Overall Growth
The most significant contributor to Singapore’s population increase was the non-resident segment, which grew by 2.7 percent from 1.86 million in June 2024 to 1.91 million in June 2025. This increase was primarily driven by work permit holders in the construction sector, followed by migrant domestic workers. The foreign workforce now makes up about two-thirds of the non-resident population, while the remaining third comprises mainly domestic helpers, dependents, and students.
The surge in construction workers is directly linked to Singapore’s major infrastructure developments, including the construction of Changi Terminal 5 and the government’s efforts to ramp up housing supply. These workers are essential for supporting key national projects that will enhance Singapore’s connectivity and address housing needs for its growing population.
Citizen and Permanent Resident Numbers Show Modest Changes
While the non-resident population experienced significant growth, the citizen and permanent resident populations showed more modest changes. The citizen population increased by a smaller 0.7 percent from 3.64 million to 3.66 million people. Meanwhile, the permanent resident population remained stable at 0.54 million throughout the same period.
Singapore’s annualized population growth rate over the past five years (2020-2025) reached 1.5 percent, which is notably higher than the 0.5 percent growth rate recorded in the preceding five-year period (2015-2020). This acceleration reflects the country’s strategic approach to managing population growth to meet economic and infrastructure development needs while carefully controlling immigration levels.
Demographic Challenges Continue Despite Population Growth
Despite the overall population increase, Singapore continues to face significant demographic challenges that influence its immigration policies. The country maintains a low birth rate, with the resident total fertility rate remaining unchanged at 0.97 in 2024. Additionally, the citizen population continues to age, with 20.7 percent now aged 65 and above, compared to 13.1 percent a decade ago.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
- What is the million population in Singapore?
As of June 2025, Singapore’s population stands at 6.11 million. This includes 3.66 million citizens, 0.54 million permanent residents, and 1.91 million non-residents such as foreign workers and domestic helpers. The population grew by 1.2% in one year, mainly due to non-resident growth.
- Has Singapore’s population crossed the 6 million mark for the first time?
Yes, Singapore’s population exceeded 6 million for the first time in June 2024. It continued to grow, reaching a record 6.11 million by June 2025. This growth was mainly driven by an increase in foreign workers and non-residents supporting key sectors.
- Why is Singapore’s population so high?
Singapore’s population is high due to an increase in non-resident workers, especially in construction and domestic caregiving. These workers support major infrastructure projects like Changi Terminal 5 and housing development. The government controls immigration carefully, balancing economic needs with social considerations.
- Is Singapore’s population rise to historic high of 6.04 million mainly due to growth in non-resident population?
Singapore’s population rose to a historic high, but the latest figure is 6.11 million, not 6.04 million. The increase is mainly due to growth in the non-resident population, particularly work permit holders and migrant domestic workers supporting infrastructure projects.