Percentage of land area by degree of urbanization 2021
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
Cook Islands - #228
Greenland
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 in 2021 offers a compelling insight into how urban development is reshaping the world's landscapes. This metric provides a snapshot of urban concentration, reflecting the balance between urban and rural spaces across different nations. Understanding these patterns is crucial for sustainable urban planning and economic growth, as well as for gauging the potential impacts on environmental and social systems globally.
Urbanization Hotspots: An In-depth Look
In 2021, several regions exhibited a high degree of urbanization, with the Holy See and Monaco reaching the maximum urbanization level of 100%. These microstates have a unique geographical constraint that necessitates a predominantly urban landscape. Not far behind, Gibraltar and Bermuda had urbanization percentages of 87% and 69.524%, respectively. Such high levels of urban development are often driven by limited land availability and significant population density, which demand efficient urban planning and infrastructure development.
Rural Dominance in Global Landscapes
Conversely, several countries showcased minimal urbanization. Argentina recorded the lowest urban land percentage at 0.453%, closely followed by South Sudan and Saudi Arabia. These countries, despite their varying socio-economic contexts, share vast rural expanses which contribute to their low urban land percentage. This rural dominance is vital for agricultural output and maintaining ecological balance, yet it poses challenges for economic diversification and urban economic development.
Economic Dynamics and Urbanization
Urbanization often correlates with economic growth, as it can spur infrastructure development, enhance job creation, and improve living standards. In 2021, countries like Bangladesh (66.739%) and Rwanda (56.513%) displayed significant urban land percentages, reflecting their rapid economic transformations. These nations have focused on urbanization as a pathway to boost their manufacturing and service sectors, driving economic progress while tackling socio-economic challenges such as poverty reduction and employment generation.
Year-over-Year Insights and Shifts
The year 2021 saw moderate changes in urban land percentages, with an average increase of 0.09 percentage points (1.5%). Notable increases were observed in Gibraltar (+2.00%) and China, Macao SAR (+1.67%), reflecting ongoing urban expansion efforts. In contrast, Saint Martin (French part) experienced a decrease of 1.48%, potentially due to natural constraints or policy shifts affecting urban development. This fluctuation underscores the dynamic nature of urbanization, influenced by a myriad of factors including economic policies, environmental considerations, and geopolitical events.
Sustainability Challenges in Urban Planning
As urbanization intensifies, the need for sustainable planning becomes paramount. The average global urban land percentage of 11.26% highlights a widespread commitment to maintaining rural areas, which are crucial for biodiversity and food security. However, as urban centers expand, they exert pressure on natural resources, necessitating innovative approaches to urban planning that balance growth with sustainability. Countries with high urban percentages must implement strategies that address pollution, waste management, and resource efficiency to ensure long-term viability.
The Percentage of land area by degree of urbanization in 2021 offers a window into the evolving landscapes of our world. By understanding these patterns, policymakers, urban planners, and researchers can better navigate the complexities of urban growth, ensuring that economic advancement does not come at the cost of ecological and social stability. This balance is crucial for fostering sustainable development in an increasingly urbanized world.
Insights by country
Niue
Niue ranks 232 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, reflecting a 0% urbanization rate as of 2021. This statistic indicates that the entirety of Niue's land area is classified as rural, with no areas designated as urban.
The absence of urbanized areas in Niue can be attributed to its small size, measuring just 261 square kilometers, and its population of approximately 1,600 residents. The island's infrastructure, economic activities, and settlement patterns are primarily rural, with limited development in urban amenities or concentrated populations.
Additionally, Niue's geographical isolation in the South Pacific, along with its reliance on agriculture and fishing for economic sustenance, contributes to its low degree of urbanization. As a small island nation, Niue faces challenges related to economic diversification and population growth, factors that often encourage urban development in larger countries.
Grenada
In 2021, Grenada ranked 25th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area classified by degree of urbanization, with a notable value of 24.392%. This statistic indicates that just over a quarter of the country's land area is urbanized, reflecting a significant urban presence relative to its total land area.
The degree of urbanization in Grenada can be attributed to several factors, including its small size, population density, and economic activities concentrated in urban centers. The capital, St. George's, serves as a hub for commerce, tourism, and public services, drawing people from rural areas in search of better opportunities.
Additionally, Grenada's urbanization is shaped by its geographic context, as the island nation consists primarily of mountainous terrain, which limits the areas suitable for development. This geographic constraint, combined with a growing population and increasing tourism, may drive further urban expansion in the coming years.
Guadeloupe
In 2021, Guadeloupe ranked 39th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with 18.36% of its land classified as urban. This statistic reflects the relatively low level of urbanization in the region, which is characterized by a mix of urban centers and extensive natural landscapes.
The degree of urbanization in Guadeloupe can be attributed to its geographical features, which include mountainous terrain and protected natural reserves that limit extensive urban development. Additionally, the island's historical economic activities, focused primarily on agriculture and tourism, have influenced population distribution and land use patterns.
Interestingly, while Guadeloupe has a modest urban footprint, it serves as an important cultural and economic hub within the Caribbean, with urban areas like Pointe-à-Pitre and Basse-Terre hosting significant population and commercial activities. The balance between urban development and the preservation of natural environments remains a crucial aspect of the island's planning and policy considerations.
Singapore
In 2021, Singapore ranked 12th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with 46.875% of its land classified as urbanized. This statistic reflects Singapore's status as a highly developed city-state, where urbanization is a defining characteristic of its landscape and societal structure.
Several factors contribute to this high degree of urbanization, including Singapore's limited land area, which is approximately 728 square kilometers, and its strategic focus on economic development and housing. The government has implemented extensive urban planning initiatives that prioritize the efficient use of space, integrating residential, commercial, and recreational areas into a cohesive urban environment.
Additionally, Singapore's urbanization is supported by robust infrastructure, including public transportation systems and green spaces, which enhance the urban living experience. As a result, the country not only accommodates a dense population but also achieves a high quality of life, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and businesses alike.
Mexico
In 2021, Mexico ranked 150th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanization rate of just 1.716%. This relatively low percentage indicates that a small portion of the country's land is classified as urban, reflecting the predominance of rural areas.
The factors contributing to this statistic include Mexico's diverse geography, which encompasses vast rural regions, along with economic conditions that often favor agricultural and traditional land use over urban development. Additionally, historical patterns of migration and urbanization have resulted in concentrated urban areas, while extensive rural territories remain less developed.
Interestingly, despite its low urban land area percentage, Mexico is home to some of the largest cities in the world, such as Mexico City, which itself has a significant urban population density. This contrast highlights the complexity of urbanization in a country where urban centers coexist with large rural landscapes.
Switzerland
In 2021, Switzerland ranked 61 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area classified by degree of urbanization, with a notable 9.993% of its land area being urbanized. This statistic reflects the country’s balance between its natural landscapes and urban development, indicating a relatively low level of urbanization compared to many other developed nations.
The urbanization rate in Switzerland is influenced by its geographical landscape, which is characterized by mountainous terrains and extensive natural reserves. These geographical constraints limit the extent of urban sprawl, preserving a significant portion of the land for agriculture and nature. Additionally, urban planning policies in Switzerland emphasize sustainable development and the integration of green spaces within urban areas.
Interestingly, despite the low percentage of urbanized land, Switzerland boasts a high standard of living and advanced infrastructure, showing that a smaller urban footprint does not necessarily correlate with lower economic development. The country’s urban centers, such as Zurich and Geneva, are known for their economic vitality and high quality of life, further demonstrating the effectiveness of careful urban management.
Panama
In 2021, Panama ranked 158th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a value of only 1.464%. This statistic indicates that a small fraction of Panama's land area is classified as urban, highlighting the predominance of rural and undeveloped regions in the country.
The low percentage of urbanized land area in Panama can be attributed to its geography, which includes significant natural landscapes such as rainforests, mountains, and coastal areas. Additionally, the country's economic activities have historically centered around agriculture and the Panama Canal, which may not require extensive urban development compared to industrialized nations.
Moreover, urbanization trends in Panama are influenced by migration patterns and economic opportunities, with many citizens gravitating towards urban centers like Panama City for employment. Despite the current low urbanization rate, the country has been experiencing gradual urban growth, which may affect future statistics as infrastructure and housing developments continue to expand.
Vanuatu
In 2021, Vanuatu ranked 195th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with only 0.537% of its land area classified as urban. This low percentage reflects Vanuatu's status as a predominantly rural society, where the majority of its population resides in small villages and communities scattered across its numerous islands.
The limited degree of urbanization in Vanuatu can be attributed to various factors, including its geographical characteristics, which consist of mountainous terrain and volcanic islands, making large-scale urban development challenging. Additionally, the economic focus on agriculture and traditional lifestyles has historically prioritized rural living over urban expansion.
Interestingly, Vanuatu is also known for its rich cultural heritage and biodiversity, which are preserved in these rural settings. The country's unique ecological landscape and cultural practices contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination, although they also underscore the challenges posed by urbanization as the nation seeks to balance development with preservation.
Ukraine
In 2021, Ukraine ranked 127th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanized land area accounting for 2.473% of its total land area. This relatively low percentage reflects the country's vast agricultural landscapes and rural characteristics, which dominate its geography.
The urbanization rate in Ukraine has been influenced by historical, economic, and social factors, including the legacy of Soviet-era planning, which emphasized industrial development in urban centers while leaving large portions of the country rural. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical challenges and economic instability may have contributed to slow urbanization trends.
Interestingly, despite its low urbanization percentage, Ukraine is home to several large cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa, which serve as cultural and economic hubs. However, the overall rural nature of the country continues to shape its demographic and economic landscape.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan ranks 210 out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a mere 0.254% of its land classified as urban. This statistic reflects the country's vast land area, the majority of which remains rural and underdeveloped, contributing to its low urbanization rate.
Several factors contribute to this low percentage, including Kazakhstan's historical reliance on agriculture and resource extraction, as well as its expansive territory that encompasses diverse landscapes. The country's urban population is concentrated in a few major cities, such as Almaty and Nur-Sultan, while vast rural areas are sparsely populated.
In comparison, many countries with similar land areas have seen higher levels of urbanization due to industrialization and population density in urban centers. As of 2021, Kazakhstan's urbanization rate is indicative of its ongoing economic transition and the challenges it faces in developing its infrastructure and urban spaces.
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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