Rio Grande do Norte faces population decline and shifting demographics

Rio Grande do Norte is experiencing significant demographic and economic shifts. According to IBGE estimates for 2026, the state's population has decreased by 8,501 people compared to 2025, totaling 3,463,737 inhabitants. Among the state's 167 municipalities, 57 reported population declines, including the capital, Natal.

In the electoral sector, the state's young voter base (ages 16 to 24) has shrunk by 7.6% since 2022, now representing 12.9% of the total electorate. Conversely, the population of voters over 80 has grown by 32.3%.

Economically, the formal labor market saw a modest gain of 999 jobs in July 2026. This growth was primarily driven by the agricultural sector, specifically melon cultivation, which added 1,020 jobs. However, this represents the lowest monthly job creation for July in a five-year period.