Aegean islands resist Greece's demographic decline

While Greece faces a significant demographic crisis characterized by a decline in births and an increase in deaths, certain Aegean islands are bucking the national trend. Data indicates that between 2024 and 2025, Greece recorded over 56,000 more deaths than births, with a 4.2% decrease in births. This trend is particularly sharp in Epirus, Peloponnese, Central Macedonia, and Attica.

In contrast, islands such as Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos, Kos, and Rethymno are showing more positive demographic indicators where births continue to outpace deaths. In Santorini, approximately 480 large families reside, with the local Large Families Association reporting four to six new families joining annually.

These islands continue to attract new residents and families despite challenges regarding housing, healthcare, and transportation. In Santorini, the local school system supports over 4,500 children across 34 educational units, reflecting the island's unique position in the country's demographic landscape.