According to the population operations department of Tartu, the city's population has decreased notably. Initial estimates based on the methodology of the Statistical Office's location index indicated that Tartu would have over 100,685 residents by the year 2025. However, recent data from the population register now shows that only 97,456 people currently reside in the city, highlighting a marked discrepancy between projections and reality.

This decline in population may raise concerns for city planners and local authorities regarding the implications for the economy, services, and community well-being. As cities grow or decline, local governments need to adapt their strategies for infrastructure, housing, and social services to meet the changing needs of their residents. The significant drop in population could potentially lead to challenges in maintaining public services and infrastructure that were designed for a larger populace.

Given that Tartu is one of Estonia's prominent cities, known for its educational institutions and cultural relevance, this demographic shift could impact both local community dynamics and the city's reputation. As a result, it may necessitate a closer examination of factors leading to this population decrease, such as housing affordability, employment opportunities, and quality of life to stem further loss and attract new residents to the area.