Percentage of land area by degree of urbanization 2018
Explore the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, highlighting how urban development shapes countries' landscapes and influences economic growth. Understanding this statistic reveals the balance between urban and rural spaces, essential for sustainable planning.
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Complete Data Rankings
↑Top 10 Countries
- #1
Holy See - #2
Monaco - #3
Gibraltar - #4
Bermuda - #5
Bangladesh - #6
Sint Maarten (Dutch part) - #7
Nauru - #8
Rwanda - #9
Jersey - #10
Malta
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
↓Bottom 10 Countries
- #237
Wallis and Futuna Islands - #236
Tokelau - #235
Saint Pierre and Miquelon - #234
Anguilla - #233
Saint Helena - #232
Niue - #231
Montserrat - #230
Falkland Islands (Malvinas) - #229
Greenland - #228
Western Sahara
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
The percentage of land area by degree of urbanization is a critical metric that measures how much of a country's land is dedicated to urban development. In 2018, this statistic provided insightful data on the balance between urban and rural spaces across the globe, highlighting how urbanization shapes countries' landscapes and influences economic growth. Understanding this metric is essential for sustainable planning, as it sheds light on the extent of urban sprawl and its implications for both the environment and socioeconomic development.
Global Urbanization Trends in 2018
In 2018, the landscape of urbanization varied significantly across the globe. With 200 countries surveyed, the data revealed a wide range of urbanization, from Monaco and the Holy See, each with 100% of their land area urbanized, to Saudi Arabia at the lower end with just 0.44%. The global average stood at 10.98%, while the median was 3.85%, indicating a skewed distribution with a small number of highly urbanized countries. These figures reflect the diversity in how nations allocate land for urban versus rural purposes, influenced by factors such as population density, economic priorities, and geographic constraints.
Regional Contrasts and Notable Insights
Among the top urbanized regions, microstates and densely populated countries dominated. For example, Gibraltar and Bermuda reported urbanization rates of 83% and 69.116%, respectively, indicative of their limited landmass and high population density, which necessitate efficient land use. In contrast, countries such as Argentina, Paraguay, and Zambia, with urbanization rates below 0.5%, reflect vast rural expanses and slower urban development trends. These contrasts highlight the significant differences in regional development strategies and emphasize the necessity for tailored urban planning policies that align with each country’s unique circumstances.
Economic Implications of Urbanization
Urban development is closely linked to economic growth, serving as a catalyst for increased productivity and innovation. In 2018, countries like Bangladesh (with 65.525% urban area) leveraged urbanization to boost their economies, capitalizing on urban centers as hubs for commerce and industry. Conversely, nations with minimal urbanization, such as Saudi Arabia and Algeria, faced challenges in diversifying their economies beyond rural and resource-based activities. This economic divide underscores the role of urban planning in fostering sustainable economic development and highlights the potential for urban areas to drive economic transformation.
Sustainability and the Urbanization Balance
The distribution of urban areas has significant environmental and sustainability implications. High urbanization rates can lead to challenges such as pollution, resource depletion, and habitat loss. Countries like Malta, with a 46.714% urban area, must balance urban expansion with environmental preservation to ensure sustainable growth. Conversely, nations with lower urbanization levels can focus on developing green infrastructure and promoting sustainable urban planning principles. These approaches are crucial for mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization and fostering a harmonious balance between urban and rural environments.
Year-over-Year Changes and Future Outlook
From 2017 to 2018, the average change in urban land percentage was modest at 0.09%, indicating gradual shifts in global urbanization. However, some countries saw notable changes, with Burundi experiencing a 5.2% increase and Rwanda a 2.7% rise, driven by efforts to improve infrastructure and urban living standards. Conversely, regions like Macao SAR and the Cook Islands experienced decreases, reflecting urban planning adjustments or natural factors. These dynamics point to the evolving nature of urban development worldwide, suggesting a continued trend towards urbanization as countries seek to enhance their economic prospects and improve living conditions.
In conclusion, the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization in 2018 highlights the diverse landscape of global urban development. With substantial regional and economic implications, this metric underscores the importance of strategic planning in managing urban expansion. As the world continues to urbanize, understanding these trends will be pivotal in shaping sustainable futures for both urban and rural communities.
Insights by country
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom ranks 63rd out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area classified by degree of urbanization, with a reported value of 9.328% in 2018. This statistic reflects the proportion of the country’s total land area that is designated as urban, highlighting the extent of urban development and settlement in the UK.
Factors contributing to this relatively low percentage of urban land area include the UK's diverse geographic landscape, which encompasses rural areas, national parks, and protected landscapes. Additionally, historical trends in urbanization, planning policies favoring green spaces, and a commitment to preserving natural environments also play significant roles in shaping land use patterns.
In comparison to other countries, the UK’s urban land area percentage is indicative of its efforts to balance development with environmental conservation. As a point of interest, countries with higher urbanization percentages often face challenges such as increased population density, housing shortages, and infrastructure strain, which the UK continues to navigate amid evolving urban policies.
Armenia
In 2018, Armenia ranked 107th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with 3.344% of its land classified as urban. This statistic reflects the limited extent of urban development within the country, which is characterized by a predominantly rural landscape.
The relatively low percentage of urbanized land in Armenia can be attributed to several factors, including its geographic features, economic conditions, and historical context. The country is mountainous, which limits the availability of flat land suitable for urban expansion. Additionally, Armenia's economy has faced challenges, including the aftermath of the Soviet era and ongoing geopolitical tensions, which have impacted urbanization efforts.
Interestingly, urbanization rates in Armenia are gradually increasing as the government implements policies aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and services. This statistic is indicative of broader trends in the region, where many countries are experiencing shifts toward urbanization as populations migrate to urban centers in search of better opportunities.
Kiribati
In 2018, Kiribati ranked 147th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with only 1.725% of its land classified as urban. This low figure reflects the predominantly rural nature of the country, which consists of 33 atolls and reef islands spread over a vast area of the Pacific Ocean.
The limited urbanization in Kiribati can be attributed to various factors, including its geographical isolation, small population, and economic reliance on subsistence agriculture and fisheries. Additionally, the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels hinder urban development and infrastructure expansion.
Interestingly, while Kiribati has a low degree of urbanization, it faces significant challenges related to urban planning in its capital, South Tarawa, where rapid population growth has led to inadequate housing and infrastructure, despite the overall rural nature of the country.
Cook Islands
In 2018, the Cook Islands ranked 157th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a value of 1.438%. This statistic indicates that only a small fraction of the land is classified as urban, reflecting the predominantly rural character of the islands.
The low degree of urbanization in the Cook Islands can be attributed to its geographical and demographic characteristics. The nation consists of 15 islands, with a total land area of approximately 236 square kilometers, and a population concentrated primarily in the capital, Avarua, on Rarotonga. Factors such as limited economic opportunities, a small population, and cultural preferences for community living contribute to this urbanization trend.
Additionally, the Cook Islands' economy is largely based on tourism and agriculture, which typically thrive in more natural and rural settings rather than urbanized areas. As a result, the emphasis on preserving the natural landscape may also play a role in maintaining low levels of urbanization.
Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands ranks 206th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a notable value of 0.302%. This low percentage indicates that the vast majority of the country's land area remains rural and underdeveloped, reflecting a predominantly agrarian society with limited urban infrastructure.
This low degree of urbanization can be attributed to several factors, including the country's geographical characteristics, which comprise numerous islands and rugged terrain, making urban development challenging. Furthermore, the economy is largely based on agriculture, forestry, and fishing, which often do not require intensive urbanization.
Additionally, the Solomon Islands has experienced slow urban growth due to historical and socio-economic factors, including limited access to education and healthcare in rural areas, which can hinder migration to urban centers. The urban population is concentrated in a few areas, with Honiara being the only significant city, highlighting the stark contrast between urban and rural living conditions.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica ranks 111th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a figure of 3.126% for the year 2018. This statistic indicates that a relatively small portion of the country's land area is classified as urban, suggesting a predominantly rural landscape.
The low percentage of urbanized land in Costa Rica can be attributed to several factors, including the country's emphasis on preserving natural ecosystems, a significant portion of the population residing in rural areas, and a historical reliance on agriculture. Costa Rica is renowned for its biodiversity and has established numerous protected areas, which limits urban development.
Furthermore, the urbanization rate has implications for infrastructure, economic development, and social services in the country. As of 2018, Costa Rica's urbanization rates continue to rise gradually, influenced by migration patterns, economic opportunities in urban centers, and the overall trend of global urbanization.
Bhutan
In 2018, Bhutan ranked 205th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with only 0.329% of its land classified as urban. This low percentage reflects Bhutan's predominantly rural character, where the majority of its population resides in rural areas engaged in agriculture and traditional livelihoods.
The limited urbanization in Bhutan can be attributed to various factors, including the country's geographical challenges, historical emphasis on preserving cultural heritage, and the government's focus on Gross National Happiness over rapid economic development. Additionally, urban areas in Bhutan are primarily concentrated in the capital, Thimphu, and a few other towns, while the vast majority of the country remains mountainous and sparsely populated.
Interestingly, Bhutan's approach to urbanization contrasts with many other countries in the region, as it seeks to balance development with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. This approach has led to unique policies that prioritize the well-being of its citizens and the protection of its natural resources.
Saudi Arabia
In 2018, Saudi Arabia ranked 200 out of 237 countries in terms of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanized land area percentage of only 0.442%. This relatively low percentage reflects the vast expanses of desert and arid land that dominate the country's geography, which limits the extent of urban development.
The urbanization rate in Saudi Arabia is influenced by its economic structure, which has historically relied on oil production and export rather than industrial and urban growth. Moreover, the government has prioritized the development of major urban centers, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, while vast rural areas remain sparsely populated.
In contrast to its urbanization metrics, Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant infrastructural development, with initiatives like Vision 2030 aimed at diversifying the economy and promoting urbanization in selected regions. This could potentially alter the urbanization landscape in future years.
Antigua and Barbuda
In 2018, Antigua and Barbuda ranked 51st out of 237 countries in terms of land area by degree of urbanization, with 13.389% of its land area classified as urban. This percentage reflects the relatively small size of urban environments compared to the total land area of the country, which comprises two main islands and several smaller ones.
The degree of urbanization in Antigua and Barbuda can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its geographical layout, population distribution, and economic activities. The capital, St. John's, serves as the primary urban center, housing most of the population and economic infrastructure, while the rest of the land remains predominantly rural and characterized by agricultural activities and natural landscapes.
Interestingly, this statistic highlights the balance between urban development and the preservation of natural environments within the country. As a tourism-dependent nation, maintaining its scenic landscapes is crucial for attracting visitors, which can also influence land-use policies and urban planning approaches.
Chad
Chad ranks 217th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization. In 2018, only 0.205% of Chad's land area was classified as urban. This low percentage reflects the country's predominantly rural landscape, where agriculture remains the primary economic activity and the majority of the population resides in rural areas.
The limited urbanization in Chad can be attributed to several factors, including economic challenges, infrastructure deficits, and historical patterns of settlement. The country faces significant obstacles such as political instability, lack of investment in urban development, and environmental issues like desertification, which hinder urban growth.
Additionally, Chad's urban population has been growing slowly, with rapid population growth overall, highlighting the need for improved urban planning and development strategies to accommodate future growth and enhance living conditions for its citizens.
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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