The latest population estmate done by ISTAT stated that there were 58,462,375 inhabitants in Italy in 2005, making it the fourth largest population in European Union, and the 22nd in the world. In 2006, the Italian population climbed to an estimated 58,751,711. Despite population growth, Italy is rapidly ageing. 1 in 5 inhabitants are pensioners, and if this ageing trend continues, the Italian population could shrink by a quarter in 2050.

Italy's position in Europe and the northern Mediterranean basin meant many influences, invasions and migrations over thousands of years. As a result, the Italian people descend from different ethnic stocks such as the Etruscans, Romans, Greeks, Gauls, Germanic invaders, Normans, French and Catalans who all colonised, invaded or plundered Italy for more than 3,000 years.