The beautiful Isle of Mull is the second-largest island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, incredible wildlife, and vibrant coastal town, Tobermory. Let’s look at the Isle of Mull population figures and how they compare to historical numbers.
The Current Official Isle of Mull Population
Based on the most recent official figures, the permanent, year-round Isle of Mull population is just over 3,000 people. The total figure for the island is quite small, especially when considering the land area.
- The latest 2022 Census data shows the population of Mull was 3,063 residents.
- This represents a slight but stable increase from the 2011 Census figure of 2,800.
Mull is the fourth-largest island in Scotland by area. Therefore, this low number results in very low population density. This low density clearly reflects the island’s wild, open, and sparsely populated nature.
Where Do People Live?
The majority of Mull’s residents are concentrated in a few key settlements, with the rest of the island being largely rural.
The largest settlement by far is the colourful harbour town of Tobermory, which is home to approximately 1,000 residents, about a third of the island’s total population. Tobermory serves as the administrative hub and main commercial centre.
Other significant villages include:
A Look at Population History
The current population is a small fraction of what it once was, which offers a striking contrast and tells a story of historical change:
| Era | Approximate Population | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Early 1800s | Over 10,000 | A period of overpopulation before the Highland Clearances. |
| 1961 | Around 2,154 | The recorded low point in recent history. |
| 2022 | 3,063 | The current, stable, and growing official figure. |
The dramatic decline in the 18th and 19th centuries was largely due to factors like voluntary emigration and the devastating impact of the Highland Clearances. Today, the population is thankfully stable, though in the summer, this number is significantly boosted by an influx of tourists who come to enjoy the island’s famous scenery and hospitality.
