Synopsis
In 2024, Tokyo experienced a net population increase of approximately 79,000 residents, primarily driven by young individuals relocating for education and job opportunities. This trend highlights the continued centralization of population in the capital.Key Takeaways
- Tokyo's net inflow reached 79,000 in 2024.
- Young residents aged 20 to 24 contributed significantly.
- Surrounding prefectures also saw population increases.
- Interest in rural relocation is on the rise.
- A record 60,000 consultations for rural migration were noted.
Tokyo, Feb 1 (NationPress) In 2024, the city of Tokyo experienced a net influx of roughly 79,000 residents, which represents an increase of over 11,000 compared to the prior year, as reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
The surge is primarily attributed to young individuals relocating to Tokyo for educational and employment opportunities, underscoring the ongoing trend of population centralization in the metropolis, the ministry highlighted.
During the year, 461,454 individuals moved into Tokyo, marking an increase of 7,321 from 2023, while 382,169 people exited, a decrease of 3,679 from the previous year. This marks Tokyo’s third consecutive year of increasing net inflow.
When broken down by age demographics, the largest net influx was seen in individuals aged 20 to 24 (64,070 people), followed by those aged 15 to 19 (14,286 people).
Following Tokyo, the regions with notable net population inflows included Kanagawa, Saitama, Osaka, Chiba, Fukuoka, and Yamanashi, with Yamanashi transitioning from a net outflow to a net inflow status in 2024.
Conversely, 40 prefectures experienced net population outflows, with the most significant losses seen in Hiroshima, Aichi, Hyogo, and Shizuoka, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.
While the trend of centralization in Tokyo continues, there is also a growing interest in moving to regional areas. The Furusato Return Support Center in Tokyo, which aids in rural migration, noted a record 60,000 consultations in 2024, up by 2,000 from the previous year.
Data indicates that around 70 percent of those considering relocation are under the age of 40, with a significant increase in inquiries from families with children.
