Escape from Tarkov (EFT) is famous for its challenging and realistic quests. One of the quests that players often find tricky is called “Population Census”. This quest not only tests your combat skills but also your ability to navigate Tarkov’s dangerous environments under pressure. If you’re wondering how to complete the Population Census in Tarkov or just want a deeper understanding, this guide is for you.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Population Census Tarkov quest!
What is the Population Census Quest in Tarkov?
The Population Census quest is given by the trader Ragman in Escape from Tarkov. It is part of a longer questline that opens up once you progress in your character’s level and complete prior missions for Ragman.
In this quest, your primary objective is to find and hand over a list of employees from a specific location within Tarkov’s deadly map environments. It sounds simple, but the task involves strategic planning, knowing the map well, and surviving against other players and AI-controlled enemies.
How to Start the Population Census Quest
Here’s how you unlock and start the Population Census Tarkov quest:
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Prerequisites: You must have completed earlier quests for Ragman, like “Database Part 2,” and be at least Level 17.
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Quest Giver: Ragman
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Starting Location: Interchange map (specifically the OLI store offices)
Once unlocked, Ragman tasks you with retrieving an important piece of paperwork from Interchange.
Population Census Tarkov Quest Objectives
The objectives for the Population Census are straightforward:
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Locate the OLI administration office on Interchange.
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Find the list of employees.
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Survive and extract from the location with the list.
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Hand over the list to Ragman.
Important:
Simply finding the list is not enough. You must survive and extract from it to complete the quest. If you die before extraction, you’ll need to find the list again in your next raid.
Where to Find the List in Population Census Tarkov
Step-by-Step Location Guide:
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Map: Interchange
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Building: OLI (the large hardware store)
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Area: Administration offices
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Specific Location:
Go to the second floor of the OLI store. Head toward the office section located at the back right of the building. Look for a small room with desks, file cabinets, and papers strewn around.
The list of employees is typically found:
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On a desk inside the main administration office.
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Sometimes, it can spawn near computers or filing cabinets.
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Look carefully, as the list can blend in with other paper clutter.
It’s a small white paper item that will prompt you to pick it up when you hover your crosshair over it.
Tips for Completing Population Census Tarkov
Completing the Population Census quest can be tough. Here are some helpful tips:
Go Light and Fast
Since your goal is to grab and extract, don’t weigh yourself down. Bring light gear that lets you sprint and move quickly through the map.
Avoid Peak Times
If possible, play during off-peak hours to encounter fewer players and avoid ambushes.
Use Smarter Extraction Routes
Once you have the list, don’t just sprint to the nearest exit. Instead, plan a safe and indirect route to minimize the chances of getting intercepted.
Bring Medical Supplies
Even if you’re playing stealthily, you might get into a firefight. Bring at least one CMS kit (for limb repairs) and some painkillers.
Listen Carefully
Footsteps, gunshots, and movement sounds can warn you of other players nearby. Always stay alert.
Rewards for Completing Population Census
After successfully completing the Population Census Tarkov quest, you will receive:
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Experience Points: +8,400 EXP
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Ragman Reputation: +0.03
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Roubles: Around 60,000–70,000 (depends on bonuses)
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Unlocks new quests: Progression to higher-tier Ragman quests.
Not only do you earn valuable EXP and money, but you also move one step closer to accessing Ragman’s better gear and armor sales.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What level do I need to be to start Population Census in Tarkov?
A: You must be at least Level 17 and have completed earlier Ragman quests like “Database Part 2.”
What happens if I die after finding the employee list?
A: If you die before extraction, you lose the list and must retrieve it again in a future raid.
Can I place the employee list in my secure container?
A: No, the list must stay in your normal inventory. It is a quest item that cannot be secured like loose loot.
Is the location of the list randomized?
A: The list usually spawns at a fixed location inside the OLI administration offices. However, the exact desk or shelf may vary slightly within the same room.
Can I complete this quest in offline mode?
A: No, quest progress does not count in offline raids. You must complete it in a live online session.
Conclusion
The Population Census Tarkov quest is a classic example of what makes Escape from Tarkov so thrilling: high-risk, high-reward missions that require skill, planning, and a bit of luck. By following this guide, planning your raid carefully, and moving smartly through Interchange, you can retrieve the employee list and complete the quest. See More
