New figures suggest more people are moving into Rotherham from Sheffield
Rotherham’s population increased by about 2,800 between mid-2024 and mid-2025, according to estimates from the Office for National Statistics.
People moving into Rotherham from Sheffield and elsewhere are helping to grow the borough’s workforce as deaths continue to outnumber births.
Rotherham’s population increased by about 2,800 between mid-2024 and mid-2025, according to estimates from the Office for National Statistics.
Migration from elsewhere in the UK made the largest contribution, adding an estimated 2,040 residents. Net international migration added a further 892.
Meanwhile, there were 108 more deaths than births, meaning migration accounted for all the borough’s population growth.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council said people are moving into the borough from across South Yorkshire, particularly Sheffield.
Jane Maxwell, the council’s director for policy, strategy and engagement, said this reflected Rotherham’s transport links, green spaces, housing and investment in its town centre and communities.
She said:
“Like many places across the country, Rotherham has an ageing population.
“People of working age moving here from elsewhere support our local businesses, spending in our shops and contributing to our economy.”
Housing affordability may be one factor encouraging people to move from Sheffield into Rotherham.
Official figures from the Office for National Statistics and HM Land Registry show the average Rotherham home cost £190,000 in June 2026, compared with £220,000 in Sheffield – a difference of £30,000.
First-time buyers paid an average of £170,000 in Rotherham and £194,000 in Sheffield.
However, population growth can create additional demand for housing, school places, healthcare and transport.
Ms Maxwell said the council used population data to plan for growth and secure investment, including contributing towards the expansion of local GP surgeries.
She added that most families successfully secured places at their preferred local schools.
The council cautioned that the ONS figures were estimates produced using several datasets rather than a direct count of residents, meaning they might not be completely accurate at a local level.