With an average annual increase of 0.9%, the Landes are well ahead of regional (+0.5%) and national (+0.3%) growth. This dynamism is mainly based on a positive migratory balance of 1.2%, while the natural balance (births minus deaths) shows a slight decline (-0.3%). These trends, amplified since the health crisis, illustrate the appeal of the department, whether for its preserved landscapes, its quality of life or its economic opportunities.
The demographic rise particularly benefits Mont-de-Marsan, which increases to 31,455 inhabitants, gaining 1,570 residents in six years. The city thus climbs to 18th place among the most populated towns in New Aquitaine and is now close behind Agen. Dax, the second Landes city, is also growing with 21,716 inhabitants (+3.9%), while Biscarrosse confirms its rapid growth with 15,412 inhabitants (+8.4%).
The growth is even more spectacular on the coast, where several municipalities show double-digit growth. Parentis-en-Born jumped by 22.5%, Tosse by 26.4% and Bénesse-Maremne by 24%. The Maremne Adour Côte Sud community of communes also retains its status as the most populated territory in the Landes with 71,315 inhabitants and an increase of 1.7%. The Great Lakes, for their part, recorded the highest average annual growth (2%).
While this dynamic reflects a certain appeal, it also poses challenges in terms of town planning, transport and infrastructure. The Landes, at the crossroads between development and preservation, will have to continue to reconcile demographic expansion and respect for their identity. In the meantime, the department is consolidating its reputation as a welcoming land, conducive to personal and professional development.
