Top 10 Most Populated Countries in the World in 2024
India’s steady population increase has allowed it to overtake China as the most populous nation in the world in 2024.
With more than 1.45 billion people, India has the largest population in the world, according to new figures from the World Population Review (WPR). China, with a population of slightly more than 1.42 billion, comes in second.
China was the most populated country in the previous year, with India coming in second. The World Population Review (WPR) predicts that by 2030, India would have the largest population in the world.
India’s population is predicted to reach a peak of 1.65 billion in 20260, after which growth would start to slow. Regarding the shift in population growth between 2023 and 2024, the difference is noteworthy at 0.88%.
India’s population is predicted to reach a peak of 1.65 billion in 20260, after which growth would start to slow. Regarding the shift in population growth between 2023 and 2024, the difference is noteworthy at 0.88%.
1.44 billion people lived there in 2023, and by 2024, that number had increased to 1.45 billion. Even while this rise might not seem like much, it nevertheless amounts to a sizable population growth in a single year.
Even though India has the third-biggest economy in Asia, it now produces enough food on its own, consumes the most sugar, and is the third-largest market for crude oil purchases.
Top 10 Most Populated Countries in the World
Rank | Country | Population | Change % | Density (P/Km²) |
1. | India | 1,450,940,000 (1.45B) | 0.89% | 488 |
2. | China | 1,419,320,000 (1.41B) | -0.23% | 151 |
3. | United States | 345,427,000 (345M) | 0.57% | 38 |
4. | Indonesia | 283,488,000 (283M) | 0.82% | 156 |
5. | Pakistan | 251,269,000 (251M) | 1.52% | 326 |
6. | Nigeria | 232,679,000 (232M) | 2.10% | 255 |
7. | Brazil | 211,999,000 (211M) | 0.41% | 25 |
8. | Bangladesh | 173,562,000 (173M) | 1.22% | 1333 |
9. | Russia | 144,820,000 (144M) | -0.43% | 9 |
10. | Ethiopia | 132,060,000 (132M) | 2.62% | 132 |
1. India: The Nation with the Most People
With more than 1.45 billion people, India has surpassed China in population. Fertility rates above replacement levels and a young median age are the main drivers of this development. India’s population is predicted to reach a peak of 1.65 billion people by 2030 before starting to decline.
2. China: A Former Superpower in Population
China is currently the second most populous country in the world, with little over 1.42 billion inhabitants. China’s population is aging as a result of laws like the one-child policy (1980–2015) and the country’s dropping birth rate. According to projections, China’s population may continue to drop, which would have an impact on its workforce and economy.
3. The United States: A Land of Diversity
With a population of almost 345 million, the United States comes in third place, mostly due to immigration rather than birth rates. The United States is one of the few developed countries with a growing population due to its consistent growth rate.
4. Indonesia: The Powerhouse of Southeast Asia
With a population of 283 million, Indonesia is mostly a young country with strong birth rates. Its 151 inhabitants per square kilometer highlight the necessity of sustainable infrastructure to sustain growth.
5. Pakistan: A Developing Country
Because to its high birth rate, Pakistan, which has a population of about 251 million, has one of the fastest-growing populations. If job and education investments continue, its youthful population presents an opportunity for economic growth.
6. Nigeria: The Most Populous Nation in Africa
With an estimated 232 million inhabitants, Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa. Nigeria’s population is expected to increase due to its high fertility rate and growing urbanization, making it a key location for the continent’s economic development.
7. Brazil: The most populous country in South America
With a population of over 212 million, Brazil is expected to reach its peak in 2041 while expanding steadily. Brazil’s median age of 34 is comparatively young, but as fertility rates continue to drop, the country’s growth rate is predicted to stagnate.
8. Bangladesh: High Population Density
Bangladesh is one of the world’s most densely populated countries, with almost 174 million people living there in a limited land area. The nation’s infrastructure and resources are put to the test by high fertility rates and a shortage of land.
9. Russia: Decline in Population
With a population of about 145 million, Russia is experiencing a population loss as a result of low birth rates and an aging population. Russia’s demographic trends, with a median age of 40, underscore the necessity of family-friendly policies.
10. Mexico: A Young Population
Mexico, with a population of almost 131 million, completes the top 10. With a median age of roughly 30, its young population suggests room for expansion in the future, provided that the economy encourages the formation of new jobs and young families.