10 Most populated countries in the world (2024)

The world’s population has been steadily increasing, and with it, the number of countries with significant populations. These countries are known for their diversity, cultural heritage, and economic growth. In this article, we will explore the ten most populated countries in the world and learn more about their unique features.

The World’s most populated countries

Rank	Country	Population
1.	China	1.4 billion people
2.	India	1.35 billion people
3.	United States	331 million people
4.	Indonesia	273 million people
5.	Pakistan	220 million people
6.	Brazil	212 million people
7.	Nigeria	206 million people
8.	Bangladesh	164 million people
9.	Russia	144 million people
10.	Mexico	128 million people

1. China

Population: 1.4 billion people

With a population of approximately 1.4 billion people, China is the most populous country in the world. Its population density is 153 people per square kilometre, which is relatively high compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 1.7 children per woman, which is lower than the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman. This means that China’s population growth rate has been decreasing in recent years. China’s large population has both advantages and challenges.

On one hand, the country has a vast workforce that has contributed to its economic growth and development. China’s booming industries, such as manufacturing and technology, have propelled it to become the second-largest economy in the world. On the other hand, China’s large population puts pressure on its resources, such as land and water, which can lead to environmental degradation and social issues.

2. India

Population: 1.35 billion people

India is the second most populous country in the world, with a population of around 1.35 billion people. Its population density is 464 people per square kilometre, which is relatively high compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 2.2 children per woman, which is slightly higher than the replacement rate. India’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a large workforce that contributes to its economic growth and development. India is also known for its diverse and vibrant culture.

On the other hand, India’s large population puts pressure on its resources, such as land and water, which can lead to environmental degradation and social issues.

3. United States

Population: 331 million people

The United States is the third most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 331 million people. Its population density is 36 people per square kilometre, which is relatively low compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 1.7 children per woman, which is lower than the replacement rate. The United States population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a diverse and educated population that contributes to its economic growth and development. The United States is also known for its cultural influence on the world.

On the other hand, the country faces challenges related to income inequality and healthcare access.

4. Indonesia

Population: 273 million people

Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 273 million people. Its population density is 151 people per square kilometre, which is relatively high compared to other countries. The country’s fertility rate is 2.3 children per woman, which is slightly above the replacement rate.

Indonesia’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a large and growing middle class that is contributing to its economic growth and development. Indonesia is also known for its diverse culture and natural beauty.

On the other hand, Indonesia faces challenges related to poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.

5. Pakistan

Population: 220 million people

Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 220 million people. Its population density is 287 people per square kilometre, which is relatively high compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 3.6 children per woman, which is significantly above the replacement rate. Pakistan’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a growing workforce that is contributing to its economic growth and development. Pakistan is also known for its rich cultural heritage.

On the other hand, Pakistan faces challenges related to poverty, inequality, and healthcare access.

6. Brazil

Population: 212 million people

Brazil is the sixth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 212 million people. Its population density is 25 people per square kilometre, which is relatively low compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 1.7 children per woman, which is below the replacement rate. Brazil’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a diverse and growing middle class that is contributing to its economic growth and development.

Brazil is also known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty. On the other hand, Brazil faces challenges related to poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.

7. Nigeria

Population: 206 million people 

Nigeria is the seventh most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 206 million people. Its population density is 226 people per square kilometre, which is relatively high compared to other countries.

The country’s fertility rate is 5.4 children per woman, which is significantly above the replacement rate. Nigeria’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a growing workforce that is contributing to its economic growth and development.

Nigeria is also known for its diverse culture and natural resources. On the other hand, Nigeria faces challenges related to poverty, inequality, and healthcare access.

8. Bangladesh

Population: 164 million people

Bangladesh is the eighth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 164 million people. Its population density is 1,115 people per square kilometre, which is one of the highest in the world.

The country’s fertility rate is 2.1 children per woman, which is close to the replacement rate. Bangladesh’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has made significant progress in reducing poverty and improving healthcare access. Bangladesh is also known for its vibrant culture and cuisine.

On the other hand, Bangladesh still faces significant challenges related to social and economic inequality, as well as environmental degradation.

9. Russia

Population: 144 million people 

Russia is the ninth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 144 million people. Its population density is relatively low at 9 people per square kilometre. The country’s fertility rate is 1.5 children per woman, which is well below the replacement rate. Russia’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge.

On one hand, the country has a wealth of natural resources and a highly skilled workforce. Russia is also known for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to science and technology. On the other hand, Russia faces challenges related to political and economic instability, as well as demographic decline.

10. Mexico

Population: 128 million people 

Mexico is the tenth most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 128 million people. Its population density is 66 people per square kilometre, which is relatively moderate.

The country’s fertility rate is 2.1 children per woman, which is close to the replacement rate. Mexico’s large population is both an advantage and a challenge. On one hand, the country has a diverse and growing middle class that is contributing to its economic growth and development.

Mexico is also known for its rich cultural heritage and cuisine. On the other hand, Mexico faces challenges related to poverty, inequality, and crime.

Conclusion 

The ten most populated countries in the world are home to diverse populations, cultures, and economies. These countries play an essential role in shaping the world’s future, and their growth and development are critical to global stability.

Despite the challenges they face, these countries have shown resilience and have continued to progress in various fields. By understanding their unique characteristics, we can gain a better understanding of the world and the people who inhabit it.