As of 2025, the global population has reached approximately 8.2 billion people. Understanding which countries contribute most significantly to this number provides insight into global demographics and future trends. Below is a list of the top 10 most populous countries in 2025, along with their estimated populations
| Rank | Country | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 1.464 billion |
| 2 | China | 1.416 billion |
| 3 | United States | 347 million |
| 4 | Indonesia | 286 million |
| 5 | Pakistan | 255 million |
| 6 | Nigeria | 238 million |
| 7 | Brazil | 213 million |
| 8 | Bangladesh | 176 million |
| 9 | Russia | 144 million |
| 10 | Ethiopia | 135 million |
Key Highlights
India Surpasses China
India has overtaken China as the world’s most populous country. This shift is attributed to China’s declining birth rates and an aging population. China’s population has decreased for three consecutive years, reaching 1.408 billion at the end of 2024. Factors such as rising living costs, delayed marriages, and the long-term effects of the one-child policy have contributed to this decline. In contrast, India’s population continues to grow, driven by a higher fertility rate.
Rapid Growth in Nigeria and Pakistan
Nigeria and Pakistan have experienced significant population growth. Nigeria’s population stands at 238 million in 2025 and is projected to continue rising, potentially surpassing the United States by 2050. Similarly, Pakistan’s population has reached 255 million, with projections indicating further growth in the coming decades. Both countries have high fertility rates, contributing to their expanding populations.
United States Maintains Steady Growth
The United States remains the third most populous country, with a population of 347 million in 2025. Unlike many other developed nations experiencing population decline, the U.S. maintains steady growth, partly due to higher fertility rates among immigrants and continued immigration. Projections suggest that the U.S. population will reach 421 million by 2100.
Declining Populations in Russia and Japan
Russia and Japan are among the countries facing population declines. Russia’s population is 144 million in 2025, with projections indicating a decrease to 126 million by 2100. Japan’s population stands at 123 million in 2025 and is expected to decline to 77 million by 2100. These trends are primarily due to low birth rates and aging populations.
Global Population Trends
The global population is projected to continue growing, reaching approximately 9.7 billion by 2050. However, this growth is not uniform across all countries. Many developed nations are experiencing declining populations due to low fertility rates and aging citizens. In contrast, several developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, are witnessing rapid population increases. This uneven growth presents challenges and opportunities, including economic development, resource allocation, and social services planning
As of 2025, India leads in population size, with significant growth observed in countries like Nigeria and Pakistan. Meanwhile, nations such as China, Russia, and Japan face declining populations. These trends will shape economic, social, and political landscapes in the years to come. For more detailed projections and data, refer to the (INED).
