Demographics Of Sölden
As of 2023, Sölden boasts a total population of 4,637 based on most recent census figures. From 2000, this shows a notable rise of 54.7%; from 1975, it shows a 213.1%. The influx of visitors and seasonal workers as well as the development of the ski resort and other amenities mostly propel population increase.
Sölden has a low population density—9.9 people per square kilometer—compared to the national average of 106.8 people per square kilometer. Still, the season and the area within the municipality greatly affect the population density. At 1,368 meters above sea level, the main village of Sölden boasts a higher population density than the upper village of Hochsölden, situated 2,090 meters above sea level. The winter months, when the ski resort draws thousands of guests, also see peaks in population density.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 4,637 |
| Population Growth Trends | +213.1% since 1975, +54.7% since 2000 |
| Population Density | 9.9 people per square kilometer |
| Age Distribution in Sölden | Children and Adolescents (0-17 years): 16.9%, Adults (18-64 years): 67.2%, Seniors (65+ years): 15.9% |
| Gender Distribution in Sölden | Female: 50.3%, Male: 49.7% |
| Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in Sölden | Austrian citizens: 86.9%, Foreign nationals: 13.1%, Roman Catholic: 79.4%, Protestant: 8.6%, Muslim: 2.4%, Orthodox Christian: 1.6%, Non-religious or other religions: 8% |
Age Distribution in Sölden
Sölden’s population median age is 35.6 years, somewhat below the national median age of 37.9 years. Sölden’s population has a following age distribution:
- Children and Adolescents (0-17 years): 16.9%
- Adults (18-64 years): 67.2%
- Seniors (65+ years): 15.9%
The young and dynamic character of Sölden’s population as well as the appeal of the ski resort and other leisure activities for young people reflect the age distribution. Still, Sölden is also a good place for leisure and retirement since the percentage of seniors is also rather high.
Gender Distribution in Sölden
With 50.3% female and 49.7% male, Sölden’s population exhibits almost perfect gender distribution. This resembles the 50.8% female and 49.2% male national gender distribution. The season and the location inside the municipality also somewhat affect the gender distribution. Whereas the upper village of Hochsölden typically features more male residents, the main village of Sölden usually boasts more female residents. The gender balance also changes in the winter when more men arrive for seasonal employment.
Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in Sölden
Living and working together, Sölden is a culturally varied municipality with people from many ethnic and national backgrounds. The most recent census figures show 13.1% of Sölden’s population are foreign nationals while 86.9% are Austrian citizens. Mostly from Germany (4.6%), Romania (1.9%), Italy (1.3%), and Hungary (1.1%), the foreign nationals hails from other nations. Since they speak other languages than German, the official language of Austria, the foreign residents also add to Sölden’s linguistic variety. Sölden speaks English, French, Italian, Romanian, Hungarian, Turkish, and Arabic among other languages.
Sölden is also a religiously varied municipality where people of many faiths and beliefs coexist amicably. The most recent census figures show that Sölden’s population is 79.4% Roman Catholic, 8.6% Protestant, 2.4% Muslim, 1.6% Orthodox Christian, and 8% either non-religious or belongs to another religion.
Employment and Occupation in Sölden
Sölden boasts a high employment rate; 83.4% of those aged 15 and above are employed. This exceeds 75.9% the national employment rate. Furthermore influencing the employment rate is the season and the location inside the municipality. The main village of Sölden boasts a higher employment rate than the upper village of Hochsölden; moreover, the employment rate rises in the winter, when more visitors and seasonal workers arrive.
With 76.2% of the total employment in Sölden coming from tourism, hospitality, and service, these are the main industries there. For Sölden’s population, these sectors offer a range of employment and vocations including cleaners, shop assistants, hotel and restaurant staff, ski instructors and guide. Comprising 23.8% of the total employment, other sectors in Sölden include trade, construction, and agriculture.
