Latest figures reveal a complex demographic picture. Like many rural areas, the region’s population is not only shrinking but also ageing. The proportion of residents aged over 65 is rising, while the number of children and young adults continues to fall.

Birth rates remain below replacement level, and the area faces a net loss of working-age people to other parts of Scotland and the UK. It is feared that without action, these trends will impact local schools, businesses and community services.

Now Dumfries and Galloway Council is calling on young professionals, remote workers and families to consider making a lifestyle shift part of their plans for 2026 – one that offers the freedom to work remotely while enjoying the space, beauty and balance of rural living.

With fast broadband, strong transport links and proximity to major cities in central Scotland and northern England, the region is perfectly placed for those who want to stay connected to their careers while embracing a slower, more fulfilling pace of life.

Councillor Stephen Thompson, leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: “Dumfries and Galloway offers a compelling alternative as a place where you can enjoy the outdoors, raise a family and still stay connected to your professional world.

“You could be working for a city-based company, running your own business or want to start up or relocate your business to our area. This is a region where remote working and strong communities can support business development and business growth.”

The Scottish Government has identified population sustainability as a national priority, and Dumfries and Galloway Council is playing a key role in addressing this locally through targeted initiatives.

Building on its strategic vision to make the region “the natural place to live, work, visit and invest”, the council is launching a targeted campaign, supported by Scottish Government funding through the Addressing Depopulation Fund, to reach flexible professionals and young families in urban centres across Scotland and the north of England.

Speaking about the thinking behind the initiative, Cllr Thompson said: “Like many rural areas, Dumfries and Galloway faces the challenge of an ageing population, with much of our in-migration coming from people over the age of 55.

“So, as we near the end of the first month of 2026 we’re encouraging young professionals and families to consider a new start – not just a new place to live, but an alternative way of living.

“With the space to explore a lifestyle rooted in nature and community and still being able to maintain vital professional and transport links to major cities, making the switch could be the right solution long term for a generation of young families, and for the whole of the region.”

The campaign, which is grant-funded by the Scottish Government’s Addressing Depopulation Fund, features a promotional film and a dedicated website providing practical information for anyone considering a move, as well as the creation of three detailed research reports focusing on housing, community engagement and best interventions.

The reports will be published on the council’s website on 11 February 2026.