Loneliness in migrants: Are there differences compared to non-migrants? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background A migrant is any person who moves across an international border or within a State, away from their habitual place of residence. Migrants may be at greater risk of experiencing loneliness. However, no comprehensive meta-analysis has examined this association. This study aimed to explore the levels of loneliness among migrants compared to non-migrants based on quantitative studies. Methods The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to March 2025. Methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for cross-sectional and cohort studies. A random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled effect size. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Q and I2 statistics. Publication bias and potential moderators (sex, age, and loneliness scale used), were also examined. Results Initially, the literature search yielded 2196 records. Forty studies were included in the systematic review, of which 30 were eligible for the meta-analysis, comprising 258,387 participants (18.6% migrants). After controlling for moderators, the random-effects model indicated a significant positive association between migration and loneliness (g = 0.21; 95% CI [0.13, 0.30], z = 4.92, p < .01), with migrants reporting higher levels of loneliness than non-migrants. Substantial between-study heterogeneity was observed. Moderator analyses revealed no statistically significant effects. Conclusion The present meta-analysis provides evidence of a positive association between migration and loneliness. Understanding how migration processes shape experiences of loneliness is essential for policies that promote social integration and well-being among the migrant population.