Before we dive into the demographics and cultures of these nations, let’s take a moment to consider the ever-changing landscape of global population dynamics.
India, recently recognized as the most populous country in the world, had a total population of 1,428,627,663 in 2023.
Meanwhile, China, traditionally known as the most populous country, has slipped to second place with a population of 1,425,671,352 in the same year.
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List of the 20 most populous countries in the world
Here is a list of the 20 most populous countries in the world in 2024, along with their population numbers at the end of 2023:
- India: 1,428,627,663
- China: 1,425,671,352
- United States: 339,996,563
- Indonesia: 277,534,122
- Pakistan: 240,485,658
- Nigeria: 223,804,632
- Brazil: 216,422,446
- Bangladesh: 172,954,319
- Russia: 144,444,359
- Mexico: 128,455,567
- Ethiopia: 126,527,060
- Japan: 123,294,513
- Philippines: 117,337,368
- Egypt: 112,716,598
- Democratic Republic of the Congo: 102,262,808
- Vietnam: 98,858,950
- Iran: 89,172,767
- Turkey: 85,816,199
- Germany: 83,294,633
- Thailand: 71,801,279
The 5 most populous countries in detail
India
India, located in South Asia, is the most populous country globally. In 2023, its population rose to 1,428,627,663, marking a significant increase from the previous year’s count of 1,417,173,173. This translates to a notable change of 11,454,490 individuals, or a growth rate of 0.81%.
India’s demographic landscape is defined by a median age of 28.2 years, highlighting its relatively young population compared to many other nations.
Additionally, India’s fertility rate stands at 2.0, indicating that, on average, each woman has two children during her reproductive years.
Geographically, India has a vast territorial area of 2,973,190 square kilometers. Despite its large size, the population density is quite high, with an average of 481 people per square kilometer.
India’s demographic trends are shaped by numerous factors, including historical, cultural, economic, and political influences. Rapid urbanization, improvements in healthcare, advances in agriculture, and socio-cultural norms related to family size and gender roles all contribute to the country’s population dynamics.
China
Located in East Asia, China is the second most populous country in the world. As of 2023, China’s population recorded a slight decline, falling from 1,425,887,337 in 2022 to 1,425,671,352, reflecting a decrease of 215,985 individuals, or a minimal negative growth rate of 0.02%.
China’s demographic landscape is characterized by a median age of 39.0 years. This trend is attributed to declining fertility rates, improved healthcare, and socioeconomic developments that affect family structures and lifestyles.
A noteworthy aspect of China’s demographic profile is its low fertility rate, which stands at 1.19. This figure indicates that, on average, each woman gives birth to around 1.19 children during her reproductive years. This low fertility rate presents challenges related to an aging population and workforce dynamics.
Geographically, China boasts a vast territory spanning 9,388,211 square kilometers. Despite its large land area, the population density in China is relatively moderate, with an average of 152 people per square kilometer.
United States of America (USA)
Located in North America, the United States of America (USA) holds a significant position as the third most populous country globally.
In 2023, the U.S. population reached 339,996,563, reflecting a considerable increase from the previous year’s count of 338,289,857. This change of 1,706,706 individuals represents a growth rate of 0.50%, showcasing the country’s dynamic demographic landscape.
With a median age of 38.1 years, the U.S. demographic profile is evolving, slightly leaning towards an older population compared to many other nations.
This aging trend is indicative of declining fertility rates, advancements in healthcare, and improved life expectancy, all of which significantly impact the country’s demographic dynamics.
The U.S. fertility rate is 1.66, meaning that, on average, each woman has about 1.66 children during her reproductive years. Although this figure is below the replacement level, it remains relatively stable compared to previous years and contributes to the ongoing population growth.
Geographically, the U.S. covers an area of 9,147,420 square kilometers. Despite its large size, the population density is relatively moderate, with an average of 37 people per square kilometer.
Indonesia
Located in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. In 2023, Indonesia’s population reached 277,534,122, reflecting a significant increase from the previous year’s count of 275,501,339. This variation of 2,032,783 individuals represents a growth rate of 0.74%.
With a median age of 29.9 years, Indonesia’s demographic profile is notably younger compared to many other nations.
Indonesia’s fertility rate stands at 2.13, indicating that, on average, each woman gives birth to around 2.13 children during her reproductive years.
Geographically, Indonesia comprises a diverse archipelago spanning 1,811,570 square kilometers. Despite its vast territory, the population density in Indonesia is relatively moderate, with an average of 153 people per square kilometer.
Pakistan
Located in South Asia, Pakistan is the fifth most populous country globally. In 2023, Pakistan’s population rose to 240,485,658, marking a significant increase from the previous year’s count of 235,824,862. This change of 4,660,796 individuals represents a growth rate of 1.98%.
With a median age of 20.6 years, Pakistan’s demographic profile leans towards a relatively young population compared to many other nations.
Pakistan’s fertility rate is 3.35, meaning that, on average, each woman gives birth to around 3.35 children during her reproductive years.
Geographically, Pakistan covers an area of 770,880 square kilometers, comprising diverse landscapes ranging from fertile plains to rugged mountain ranges. Despite its relatively small size, Pakistan’s population density is quite high, with an average of 312 people per square kilometer. This distribution reflects the concentration of the population in urban centers and fertile agricultural regions.
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