Median age of population 2023

The median age of a population is a key demographic indicator, reflecting the age distribution within a country. Understanding median age helps assess economic development, healthcare needs, and social dynamics. Countries with a higher median age may face challenges related to aging populations, while younger populations often indicate growth potential.

236 data points•Updated 11/4/2025•World•United Nations Population Division•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Monaco	54.356 years
2	Saint Helena	50.45 years
3	Japan	48.958 years
4	Martinique	48.788 years
5	Italy	47.461 years
6	San Marino	47.393 years
7	Guadeloupe	46.574 years
8	Saint Pierre and Miquelon	46.403 years
9	Portugal	46.2 years
10	China, Hong Kong SAR	46.155 years
11	Greece	45.747 years
12	Isle of Man	45.676 years
13	Puerto Rico	45.306 years
14	Germany	45.147 years
15	Bermuda	45.14 years
16	Bosnia and Herzegovina	44.915 years
17	Spain	44.903 years
18	Croatia	44.761 years
19	United States Virgin Islands	44.667 years
20	South Korea	44.486 years
21	Bulgaria	44.314 years
22	Liechtenstein	44.199 years
23	Guernsey	43.978 years
24	Slovenia	43.894 years
25	Serbia	43.872 years
26	Taiwan	43.538 years
27	Hungary	43.317 years
28	Andorra	43.162 years
29	Jersey	43.101 years
30	Austria	43.086 years
31	Latvia	43.078 years
32	Finland	42.789 years
33	Czech Republic	42.716 years
34	Romania	42.621 years
35	Switzerland	42.331 years
36	Lithuania	42.119 years
37	Ukraine	41.984 years
38	Estonia	41.89 years
39	France	41.817 years
40	Cuba	41.709 years
41	Sint Maarten (Dutch part)	41.587 years
42	Montserrat	41.546 years
43	Falkland Islands (Malvinas)	41.535 years
44	Belgium	41.44 years
45	Netherlands	41.396 years
46	Poland	41.31 years
47	Slovakia	41.302 years
48	Denmark	41.249 years
49	Aruba	41.02 years
50	Belarus	40.535 years
51	Canada	40.343 years
52	Malta	40.281 years
53	North Macedonia	40.26 years
54	Sweden	39.913 years
55	United Kingdom	39.782 years
56	Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba	39.665 years
57	Thailand	39.658 years
58	Norway	39.54 years
59	Russia	39.454 years
60	Saint Martin (French part)	39.363 years
61	Montenegro	39.291 years
62	China	39.066 years
63	Barbados	38.905 years
64	Luxembourg	38.892 years
65	Gibraltar	38.882 years
66	Saint Barthélemy	38.81 years
67	Ireland	38.416 years
68	China, Macao SAR	38.31 years
69	Turks and Caicos Islands	38.298 years
70	Curaçao	38.231 years
71	United States	38.023 years
72	Anguilla	38.013 years
73	Cayman Islands	37.875 years
74	Palau	37.843 years
75	Cyprus	37.756 years
76	Republic of Moldova	37.754 years
77	Australia	37.751 years
78	British Virgin Islands	37.546 years
79	Réunion	37.43 years
80	New Zealand	37.28 years
81	Faroe Islands	37.258 years
82	Wallis and Futuna Islands	37.166 years
83	Mauritius	36.933 years
84	Georgia	36.796 years
85	Trinidad and Tobago	36.718 years
86	Niue	36.555 years
87	Albania	36.277 years
88	Northern Mariana Islands	36.136 years
89	North Korea	36.048 years
90	Chile	35.969 years
91	Armenia	35.832 years
92	Iceland	35.808 years
93	Uruguay	35.779 years
94	Dominica	35.618 years
95	Antigua and Barbuda	35.486 years
96	Saint Kitts and Nevis	35.349 years
97	Singapore	35.102 years
98	Cook Islands	35.075 years
99	French Polynesia	34.791 years
100	Bahamas	34.597 years
101	Kuwait	34.499 years
102	Greenland	34.229 years
103	Costa Rica	34.07 years
104	Brazil	33.942 years
105	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	33.897 years
106	New Caledonia	33.891 years
107	Saint Lucia	33.745 years
108	Seychelles	33.653 years
109	Grenada	33.385 years
110	Qatar	33.189 years
111	Bahrain	32.876 years
112	Iran	32.866 years
113	Sri Lanka	32.812 years
114	Azerbaijan	32.596 years
115	Turkey	32.52 years
116	Vietnam	32.429 years
117	Tunisia	32.127 years
118	Argentina	32.122 years
119	Western Sahara	32.037 years
120	Brunei Darussalam	31.76 years
121	Jamaica	31.673 years
122	Colombia	31.606 years
123	Kosovo	31.43 years
124	United Arab Emirates	31.232 years
125	Maldives	31.124 years
126	Guam	31.12 years
127	Malaysia	30.058 years
128	Indonesia	29.831 years
129	Panama	29.603 years
130	Myanmar	29.534 years
131	Kazakhstan	29.464 years
132	Peru	29.451 years
133	Bhutan	29.388 years
134	Oman	29.268 years
135	Saudi Arabia	29.247 years
136	Morocco	29.194 years
137	Israel	29.15 years
138	Venezuela	29.025 years
139	Mexico	28.886 years
140	American Samoa	28.435 years
141	Ecuador	28.406 years
142	Lebanon	28.323 years
143	South Africa	28.213 years
144	Algeria	28.189 years
145	Suriname	28.1 years
146	India	28.06 years
147	Cabo Verde	27.87 years
148	Fiji	27.666 years
149	Dominican Republic	27.653 years
150	Libya	27.196 years
151	El Salvador	26.956 years
152	Uzbekistan	26.914 years
153	Mongolia	26.752 years
154	Tokelau	26.65 years
155	Paraguay	26.341 years
156	Turkmenistan	26.232 years
157	Belize	25.946 years
158	Cambodia	25.844 years
159	Guyana	25.607 years
160	Bangladesh	25.325 years
161	Philippines	25.287 years
162	Nicaragua	25.267 years
163	French Guiana	25.221 years
164	Kyrgyzstan	25.127 years
165	Nepal	24.679 years
166	Bolivia	24.664 years
167	Djibouti	24.389 years
168	Tuvalu	24.286 years
169	Laos	24.284 years
170	Jordan	24.279 years
171	Egypt	24.028 years
172	Honduras	23.546 years
173	Haiti	23.511 years
174	Botswana	22.882 years
175	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	22.85 years
176	Kiribati	22.686 years
177	Guatemala	22.63 years
178	Papua New Guinea	22.344 years
179	Syrian Arab Republic	22.249 years
180	Eswatini	21.995 years
181	Tajikistan	21.925 years
182	Gabon	21.503 years
183	Lesotho	21.427 years
184	Equatorial Guinea	20.979 years
185	Timor-Leste	20.969 years
186	Namibia	20.957 years
187	Ghana	20.931 years
188	Marshall Islands	20.699 years
189	Tonga	20.695 years
190	Nauru	20.434 years
191	Iraq	20.345 years
192	Comoros	20.331 years
193	Pakistan	20.287 years
194	Solomon Islands	20.251 years
195	Vanuatu	20.143 years
196	Samoa	19.904 years
197	State of Palestine	19.763 years
198	Kenya	19.526 years
199	Rwanda	19.44 years
200	Sierra Leone	19.27 years
201	Senegal	19.129 years
202	Sao Tome and Principe	19.052 years
203	Guinea-Bissau	18.943 years
204	Madagascar	18.877 years
205	Togo	18.818 years
206	Ethiopia	18.733 years
207	Eritrea	18.651 years
208	Liberia	18.358 years
209	Congo	18.308 years
210	Sudan	18.276 years
211	Yemen	18.184 years
212	Gambia	18.17 years
213	Côte d'Ivoire	18.097 years
214	Guinea	17.984 years
215	South Sudan	17.97 years
216	Zimbabwe	17.808 years
217	Benin	17.772 years
218	Nigeria	17.754 years
219	Cameroon	17.752 years
220	Malawi	17.58 years
221	Zambia	17.49 years
222	Burkina Faso	17.254 years
223	Tanzania	17.24 years
224	Mauritania	17.119 years
225	Afghanistan	16.94 years
226	Mayotte	16.786 years
227	Uganda	16.514 years
228	Angola	16.452 years
229	Mozambique	16.323 years
230	Burundi	15.902 years
231	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	15.768 years
232	Mali	15.466 years
233	Somalia	15.447 years
234	Chad	15.401 years
235	Niger	15.25 years
236	Central African Republic	14.32 years

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The median age of a population is a pivotal demographic indicator, reflecting the age distribution across different countries and offering insights into numerous socio-economic dynamics. In 2023, understanding the median age helps assess economic development, public health imperatives, and social structures. Countries with an elevated median age often grapple with challenges associated with aging populations, while nations with a younger demographic may showcase growth potential and vibrancy. This article delves into the intricacies of the 2023 global statistics regarding the median age of populations, highlighting notable trends and regional variances.

Global Demographic Insights of 2023

The year 2023 reveals significant demographic insights through the lens of median age. With a total of 200 countries analyzed, the minimum median age was recorded at 19.27 years, while the maximum soared to 54.36 years. The global average settled at 33.89 years, with a median value of 34.60 years. These figures underscore a diverse age distribution across the globe. Monaco, leading with a median age of 54.36 years, reflects its status as an aging nation, while Sierra Leone, at the other end with 19.27 years, indicates a youthful population. Such contrasts highlight the varying stages of demographic transition each country is navigating.

Countries with higher median ages, such as Japan and Italy, face unique economic and social challenges. The elevated median age of 48.96 years in Japan and 47.46 years in Italy necessitates robust social security systems and innovative healthcare solutions to manage aging populations. Conversely, younger nations like Kenya and the State of Palestine, with median ages of 19.53 and 19.76 years respectively, present opportunities for economic growth driven by a youthful workforce. However, these countries also need to invest significantly in education and job creation to harness this demographic dividend effectively.

Regional Variances and Trends

Analyzing regional patterns reveals intriguing trends. European countries, including Monaco and Italy, generally display higher median ages, indicative of lower birth rates and higher life expectancy. On the other hand, sub-Saharan African nations such as Sierra Leone and Rwanda exhibit lower median ages due to higher fertility rates and younger populations. These regional variances not only influence local economies but also impact global markets and migration patterns, as younger populations seek opportunities in countries with aging demographics.

Significant Year-over-Year Changes

2023 witnessed notable year-over-year changes in median ages, with an average increase of 0.30 years, equivalent to a 0.9% rise. Bahrain experienced the largest surge, with a 1.19-year increase, reflecting its rapid economic advancements and possibly an influx of a younger expatriate workforce. Meanwhile, Monaco saw a decrease of 0.62 years, despite its position as the country with the highest median age. These fluctuations reflect broader socio-economic dynamics and policy shifts influencing age distributions.

Policy and Planning Implications

The varying median ages across countries necessitate tailored policy responses. Nations with aging populations must prioritize pension reforms, healthcare innovations, and age-friendly infrastructure. For example, countries like Japan might invest in robotics and AI to supplement a shrinking workforce. Conversely, youthful nations need to focus on education, employment, and skill development. Pakistan, with a median age of 20.29 years, exemplifies the need for strategic investments in its burgeoning young population to secure future economic stability.

In conclusion, the median age of a population in 2023 offers critical insights into the socio-economic fabric of nations worldwide. From aging societies in Europe to youthful demographics in Africa, each presents unique challenges and opportunities that will shape the global landscape in the years to come. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers aiming to foster sustainable development and prosperity.

Insights by country

Belgium

Belgium has a median age of 41.44 years, ranking 44th out of 236 countries in this demographic statistic for the year 2023. This indicates an aging population, which is reflective of broader trends observed in many developed nations.

The relatively high median age in Belgium can be attributed to several factors, including increased life expectancy, declining birth rates, and a significant proportion of the population being in the older age brackets. As healthcare advances and living conditions improve, people are living longer, contributing to a higher median age.

Moreover, Belgium's demographic profile is influenced by urbanization and migration patterns, which often bring in younger populations but are not sufficient to offset the aging trends. Notably, similar aging trends are observed across the European Union, where many countries have median ages above 40, highlighting a common challenge of adapting social services and economic policies to accommodate an older demographic.

Saint Lucia

In 2023, Saint Lucia has a median age of 33.75 years, ranking 107th out of 236 countries worldwide. This statistic indicates a relatively young population, which is significant for understanding the demographic dynamics of the nation.

The median age reflects various factors, including birth rates, mortality rates, and migration patterns. Saint Lucia has experienced a decline in fertility rates over recent decades, which has contributed to an increase in the median age as the population ages and life expectancy improves.

Additionally, the youthfulness of the population suggests potential for economic growth and development, as a younger workforce could lead to increased productivity. However, it also poses challenges such as the need for adequate education, employment opportunities, and healthcare services to support this demographic.

Nigeria

Nigeria ranks 218 out of 236 countries in terms of median age of population, with a striking median age of 17.75 years in 2023. This statistic highlights Nigeria's youthful demographic, as it possesses one of the lowest median ages globally.

The low median age is indicative of a high birth rate and a significant proportion of the population being children and adolescents. Contributing factors include cultural norms favoring larger families, limited access to family planning resources, and socio-economic conditions that support higher fertility rates.

Additionally, this youthful demographic poses both challenges and opportunities for Nigeria. While a large young population can drive economic growth and innovation, it also necessitates substantial investments in education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to harness the potential of this demographic dividend effectively.

Nauru

Nauru ranks 190th out of 236 countries in terms of median age, with a population median age of 20.4 years in 2023. This youthful demographic is indicative of a largely young population, which can have significant implications for the country's social and economic structures.

The low median age in Nauru is influenced by factors such as high birth rates and a relatively small population, which is currently estimated at around 10,900 people. Additionally, these demographic characteristics can lead to challenges in education, employment, and healthcare, as a large proportion of the population may require services tailored to youth.

Moreover, Nauru's status as a small island nation means that it has a unique set of challenges and opportunities related to its demographic profile, including potential youth unemployment and the need for sustainable development practices that can provide for a growing young population.

Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands has a median age of population of 20.7 years in 2023, ranking it 188th out of 236 countries. This relatively young median age reflects the demographic characteristics of the nation, which is influenced by factors such as high birth rates and a significant proportion of the population being in their reproductive years.

The youthful demographic can be attributed to various factors, including traditional family structures that favor larger families and the cultural emphasis on community and kinship. Additionally, the Marshall Islands faces challenges such as limited access to healthcare and education, which can impact population growth and age distribution.

Interestingly, the youthfulness of the population may present both opportunities and challenges; while a young workforce can drive economic growth, it also requires adequate employment opportunities and educational resources to harness the potential of this demographic effectively.

Monaco

Monaco has the highest median age of population in the world, recorded at 54.36 years in 2023. This statistic reflects the aging demographic of the country, which is characterized by a significant proportion of elderly residents compared to younger generations.

Several factors contribute to this high median age, including Monaco's status as a wealthy enclave that attracts affluent retirees, high life expectancy, and a low birth rate. The principality's luxurious lifestyle and robust healthcare system also play a role in promoting longevity among its residents.

Additionally, Monaco's population is significantly influenced by its economic environment, which draws in a large expatriate community, often consisting of older individuals. This demographic trend is indicative of broader patterns observed in many developed nations, where improved living conditions and healthcare have resulted in aging populations.

Iceland

Iceland ranks 92nd out of 236 countries in terms of the median age of its population, which is 35.81 years as of 2023. This median age reflects a relatively young population compared to many European nations, contributing to the country's dynamic labor force and social structure.

The youthful demographic is influenced by several factors, including a high birth rate, robust healthcare systems, and a strong emphasis on family support. Iceland's progressive social policies, including parental leave and child care support, foster an environment conducive to raising families, which can lead to a younger median age.

Additionally, Iceland has experienced significant immigration in recent years, adding diversity to its population. Interestingly, the country also boasts one of the highest life expectancies globally, which, combined with a steady birth rate, creates a unique demographic balance that supports both young and older populations.

Afghanistan

As of 2023, Afghanistan has a median age of population of approximately 16.94 years, ranking 225th out of 236 countries. This extremely low median age reflects a youthful population, where a significant portion is comprised of children and adolescents.

Several factors contribute to this demographic characteristic, including prolonged conflict, limited access to healthcare, and a high birth rate. The ongoing instability has hindered education and healthcare services, resulting in lower life expectancy and a skewed age distribution.

In the context of global demographics, Afghanistan's median age is one of the lowest in the world, highlighting challenges such as potential economic dependency on the working-age population and the need for substantial investment in education and health services for its young citizens.

Bangladesh

In 2023, Bangladesh has a median age of population of 25.3 years, ranking 160th out of 236 countries. This relatively young median age reflects the country's significant youth demographic, with a large proportion of its population under the age of 30.

The youthful median age can be attributed to several factors, including a historically high birth rate, improvements in healthcare, and declining mortality rates, which have collectively contributed to a growing population. Additionally, the country has made substantial progress in education and women's empowerment, which have influenced demographic trends.

As of 2023, approximately 47% of the population is under the age of 25, indicating potential for a dynamic workforce in the coming years. However, this youthful demographic also presents challenges, such as the need for job creation and adequate education to harness this potential effectively.

Niue

Niue has a median age of 36.55 years, ranking 86th out of 236 countries in terms of population age demographics as of 2023. This figure indicates a relatively mature population compared to many other nations, reflecting a balance between younger and older age groups.

The median age can be influenced by several factors, including birth rates, life expectancy, and migration patterns. In Niue, a small island nation in the South Pacific, factors such as limited economic opportunities, high emigration rates, and a declining birth rate contribute to an aging population.

Additionally, the median age of Niue's population is indicative of broader trends in many Pacific Island nations, where urban migration and lifestyle changes are leading to shifts in demographic structures. Furthermore, the island's population is relatively small, which can amplify the impact of these demographic changes.

Data Source

United Nations Population Division

The Population Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs conducts demographic research, supports intergovernmental processes at the United Nations in the area of population and development, and assists countries in developing their capacity to produce and analyse population data and information. The Division brings population issues to the attention of the international community by highlighting the central role of demographic trends in all aspects of sustainable development. The Division publishes datasets on the world’s population and analyzes global demographic trends.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Median age of population data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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