That's according to new Census figures.
Just over half of residents in the midlands were born in the region.
New figures from the Census show just under 140,000 of the region's 'usual residents' were born in their respective counties.
Cork had the highest percentage of people not moving out at 72%, while Meath had the lowest percentage of residents who were born there, at 32%.
Statistician with the Demography section of the CSO, Cathal Doherty, says none of the midlands counties have a larger population when compared to the 1851 Census:
The new report also shows Portlaoise, Athlone and Mullingar are among the largest towns in the country in terms of population.
Portlaoise comes in at 12th, with a population of just under 24,000, the near 23,000 people in Athlone puts the town in 13th, and Mullingar is 14th on the CSO list with a population of 22,000.
€114m Westmeath Wastewater Upgrade Complete
Mary O’Rourke Praised As “Hard Working” At Bridge Naming Ceremony
No Mini Budget Planned Despite Pressure Over Fuel And Energy Prices
Africa Day Celebrations Kick Off Across The Midlands
Tánaiste Hails ‘Proof’ Of Help to Buy Scheme Success Across The Midlands
Westmeath Woman Recounts Israeli Interception
Man Charged In Connection With Fatal Offaly House Fire
Mercosur Trade Deal Kicks Into Action Ahead Of European Court Ruling
Westmeath Woman "Deeply Ashamed" Of Spitting Incident
Taoiseach Pays Tribute To Mary O'Rourke At Bridge Dedication
Midlands Walking Club Celebrates 30th Anniversary This Weekend
OPW Minister Wants "Grown Ups" To Resolve Children's Science Museum Fallout
Offaly TD Criticises VAT Disparity For Beauty And Nail Salons
Laois Council Launches Clinics For Vacant Home Grants
Former Children's TV Presenter Revisits Midlands Towns On Nostalgic Journey
€7m Shannon Callows Flood Plans Facing Key Hurdles
Appeal Lodged Against New Lidl Development In Laois
Housing Completions Jump Sharply In Laois In Early 2026
Bressie To Perform At Oprah Winfrey Dublin Show
Daniel Kinahan To Be Held In Laois Prison