Israel population reaches 5.6 million

The survey indicated that the highest rate of growth was in southern Israel, where the population grew by 57 percent since 1983.

The census said there are 1.6 million households in Israel having an average of 3.4 people, compared to 1.1 million households in 1983 with an average of 3.5 people.

The bureau said final results from the census would be published next year.