Garda Towns’ Population Growth Driven by Migration and Services
The population of Basso Garda is steadily increasing. This is thanks to the climate, services, and the “size of the city,” which allows residents to live well thanks to employment opportunities. In other words, it is due to the attractive capacity exercised by the Garda capital, which attracts 1,000 new residents, of whom 400 “settle roots.” The situation applies to both Desenzano and Sirmione. No more positive contributions from birth rates are arriving; in fact, in both lakeside towns, these have been surpassed by deaths so that the natural balance remains negative—at least in Desenzano. The Benacus capital is thus moving rapidly toward 24,000 official residents: those registered in the registry office.
At the end of 1999, the population was exactly 23,790 — compared to 23,816 in Lumezzane — just 389 more than a year earlier. Females predominate numerically, totaling 12,607, which is 1,424 more than males, who are “only” 11,183. As mentioned, deaths slightly outnumber births by only five units. In 1999, 117 males and 115 females died, while 127 males and 100 females were born.
Migration movements and actual population
As we have said, migration is the true engine of Desenzano’s population. In fact, last year, 1,119 people moved to Desenzano (534 males and 581 females). At the same time, 725 people left (366 males and 359 females), resulting in a positive migration balance — or, in registry terms, natural increase — of 394 units. These are the official registry data for Desenzano.
However, the actual number of people living in the city is much higher. Calculations based on water consumption, waste quantities, and other indicators suggest the actual population exceeds 30,000; some estimates go as high as 35,000. During the summer months, including the over 3,000 second homes (based on the last census data, thus likely underestimated), the population can even surpass 40,000 units.
The residents of Sirmione are also increasing, now approaching 7,000. Specifically, Sirmione residents registered in the registry office up to 1999 numbered 6,399, with a significant increase. On the charming peninsula dedicated to Catullus, births outnumber deaths for the year, but only by one: 57 versus 56.
Again, migration flows are responsible for increasing the number of residents, as 178 people requested deregistration from the registry, while 352 moved in, deciding to transfer their residence to Sirmione, where they received official registration.
Sirmione’s households number 2,784, resulting in an average family size of just over two members. In short, many families but few children. An interesting fact concerns residents who are not Italian citizens: there are 330 in total, representing over 5% of the population.
The increase in residents is primarily driven by the attraction of the southern lake region, which offers good services relative to small or medium-sized towns. This includes the presence of public institutions, essential services like hospitals, INPS (Italian social security institute), unions, a railway, an autostrada (highway), and numerous high schools.
