Puerto Rico posts net migration gain for first time in years, report says
Puerto Rico recorded a positive net migration rate for the first time in several years, signaling a shift in the island’s long-standing population decline, according to the Puerto Rico Planning Board’s latest economic report to the governor and Legislature.
“Puerto Rico has experienced its first recovery in migration from abroad in several years,” said Héctor Morales-Martínez, president of the Planning Board.
The net migration rate reached 4.7 per 1,000 residents, meaning more people moved to the island than left during the reporting period — mid‑2023 through mid‑2024. The agency also noted population growth in 43 of Puerto Rico’s 78 municipalities between 2023 and 2024 — a notable reversal from 2010 to 2020, when all municipalities saw declines.
Guaynabo, Bayamón and Arecibo led the demographic gains. Despite the recent gains, long-term projections still forecast the population will fall below 2.8 million by 2030, with an aging population and a continued decline in younger residents.
The Planning Board’s annual report also detailed Puerto Rico’s economic performance. Real gross domestic product (GDP), adjusted for inflation, grew by 2.1% in fiscal year 2024 compared to the previous year. The increase was driven by gains in exports of goods and services (5.6%), personal consumption (2.4%), fixed capital investment (6.8%) and government spending (3%).
The board projects more modest growth ahead, estimating GDP will expand by 1.1% in 2025 and 0.5% in 2026. The projections are based on ongoing macroeconomic analysis and may be revised under Puerto Rico law.
In agriculture, the report highlighted a gross agricultural income of more than $940 million in 2023. Crop production surpassed animal products, underscoring a shift in the sector. Though agriculture represents less than 1% of GDP, officials said its strategic importance continues to grow.
“There is an opportunity for growth in the sector, with the government’s renewed focus on incentives, education, infrastructure and land protection,” said Alejandro Díaz-Marrero, director of the Economic and Social Planning Program.
The report’s findings reflect what officials described as a broader effort to revitalize the island’s economy, improve food security and strengthen demographic resilience through public policy.
