Zimbabwe Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
Zimbabwe's net migration was -54,555 in 2025, ranked 22nd globally. This represents a 9.9% increase from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
Zimbabwe's net migration stood at -54,555 in 2025, a rise of +5,973 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach -53,252 by 2026. Zimbabwe ranked 22nd globally.
Zimbabwe’s net migration has swung dramatically over the past six decades, moving from a modest outflow of –8,260.00 in 1960 to a historic inflow peak of 390,593.00 in 1980, before plunging to an all‑time trough of –243,947.00 in 1993, reflecting the combined impact of post‑independence optimism, hyperinflation, and political instability. By 2025 the country recorded a net outflow of –54,555.00, ranking it 22nd globally and placing it close to peers such as Morocco (–56,254.00) and Egypt (–57,305.00). The persistent negative balance underscores the continuing push factors of economic hardship and limited employment opportunities, while occasional inflows have been tied to short‑lived periods of reform. If structural reforms succeed in stabilising the macro‑economy and expanding the formal labour market, the negative migration trend could moderate, potentially shifting Zimbabwe toward a more balanced migration profile in the coming years.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | -36,765 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | -45,008 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | -53,252 | - | - |
| 2025 | -54,555 | +5,973 | #22 |
| 2024 | -60,528 | +36,852 | #17 |
| 2023 | -97,380 | +5,448 | #14 |
| 2022 | -102,828 | −28,205 | #13 |
| 2021 | -74,623 | +14,817 | #15 |
| 2020 | -89,440 | +13,667 | #10 |
| 2019 | -103,107 | +14,651 | #11 |
| 2018 | -117,758 | +10,483 | #12 |
| 2017 | -128,241 | +11,940 | #13 |
| 2016 | -140,181 | +22,039 | #11 |
| 2015 | -162,220 | +14,809 | #14 |
| 2014 | -177,029 | −57 | #10 |
| 2013 | -176,972 | +89 | #10 |
| 2012 | -177,061 | −68,347 | #9 |
| 2011 | -108,714 | −43 | #15 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Zimbabwe matched the Stagflation Risk pattern in 2024. Historically, 38% of countries showing this pattern (117 out of 307) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Zimbabwe's net migration was -54,555 in 2025. Ranked 22nd globally. This represents a 9.9% increase from the previous year.
Zimbabwe's net migration peaked at 390,593 in 1980.
The lowest net migration in Zimbabwe was -243,947 in 1993.
Zimbabwe ranks 22nd globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
Zimbabwe's net migration is projected to reach -53,252 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of Zimbabwe in 2025 was -54,555. This ranks 22nd in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_zimbabwe_net-migration,
title = {Zimbabwe Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/zimbabwe/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}