More than 80,000 people moved out of Birmingham over the past year, making it the largest exodus of any city outside London, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The net loss stands at 22,000, as around 63,000 people moved into the city during the same period.
Reasons for the Departure
Residents are leaving for a quieter pace of life, with many heading to commuter towns such as Leamington Spa, Solihull, and Rugby. The highest numbers moved to neighbouring Sandwell, which includes more desirable commuter spots.
The ONS data covers internal migration within England and Wales, including moves to Scotland and Northern Ireland, but excludes immigration from abroad. It reveals that every major city in England and Wales lost more residents to other parts of the UK than it gained last year.
Regional Trends
Warwick gained nearly 2,000 new residents, while over 1,800 moved to Lichfield, indicating a shift towards quieter areas outside the busy West Midlands towns and cities. In total, around 4 million people relocated within England and Wales during 2025.
Only two English regions lost more residents than they gained: London and the West Midlands. This trend highlights a broader movement of people seeking a change in lifestyle, with Birmingham's diverse cultural hub experiencing a significant outflow.
