Adelaide's population would have flatlined last financial year if not for the arrival of overseas migrants, according to new data.

The figures from Australian Bureau of Statistics show Adelaide remains the nation's slowest-growing capital city with the exception of Darwin.

The city's population grew by just 0.7 per cent in 2016-17, its slowest growth rate since 2003-04.

Adelaide's total population increase of 9,600 people was entirely met by overseas arrivals.

The city lost roughly the same number of residents to other states that it gained through natural population growth (births minus deaths).

Premier Steven Marshall said the figures prove that urgent action is needed to address the situation.

"These population growth figures are completely unacceptable and much more must be done to stop the exodus of young South Australians pursuing job opportunities interstate and overseas," he said.

Adelaide remains the nation's slowest growing capital city with the exception of Darwin. ( Australian Bureau of Statistics )

Mr Marshall has long been critical of slow population growth in South Australia, and the issue was part of his election platform.

"One of the highest priorities of my government will be addressing low population growth in Adelaide and the regions," the Premier said.

"Driving a population growth agenda is integral to creating more jobs here in South Australia."

Adelaide's fastest growing region was the Munno Para West-Angle Vale area in the northern suburbs, which added 760 additional people at a growth rate of 6.2 per cent.

Almost 70 per cent of that growth was due to people moving into the area from elsewhere within the state, while 28 per cent resulted from natural expansion.

The inner city area of Adelaide was the second fastest-growing area in the state, increasing by 3.2 per cent in 2016-17, due largely to gains from net overseas migration.

Yankalilla on the Fleurieu Peninsula was the fastest growing regional area outside of Greater Adelaide.

It added an extra 123 people at a 2.1 per cent growth rate.