Percentage of population by degree of urbanization 2024

Explore the percentage of population by degree of urbanization across countries, highlighting the shift towards urban living and its impact on economic growth and development. Understanding these trends is crucial for addressing urban planning and resource allocation.

237 data points•Updated 11/20/2025•World•United Nations Population Division•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Gibraltar	100 %
2	Holy See	100 %
3	Monaco	100 %
4	Singapore	99.888 %
5	China, Macao SAR	99.871 %
6	China, Hong Kong SAR	99.551 %
7	Bermuda	98.484 %
8	Bangladesh	98.001 %
9	Bahrain	97.975 %
10	Egypt	97.362 %
11	Sint Maarten (Dutch part)	97.157 %
12	Kuwait	96.43 %
13	Aruba	95.499 %
14	Malta	95.431 %
15	Curaçao	94.702 %
16	State of Palestine	94.697 %
17	Taiwan	94.607 %
18	Israel	93.788 %
19	Rwanda	93.701 %
20	Jordan	93.686 %
21	Mayotte	93.583 %
22	Qatar	93.414 %
23	Cayman Islands	92.555 %
24	Nauru	92.341 %
25	Congo	91.86 %
26	Japan	91.327 %
27	United Arab Emirates	91.109 %
28	Guernsey	90.96 %
29	Mauritius	90.859 %
30	Jersey	90.76 %
31	South Korea	90.358 %
32	Equatorial Guinea	89.98 %
33	Lebanon	89.97 %
34	Djibouti	89.475 %
35	Western Sahara	89.252 %
36	Pakistan	88.878 %
37	Venezuela	88.608 %
38	Burundi	88.374 %
39	Réunion	88.358 %
40	Iraq	87.637 %
41	Trinidad and Tobago	87.584 %
42	Vietnam	87.395 %
43	Comoros	87.328 %
44	Saint Martin (French part)	87.243 %
45	Saint Barthélemy	86.941 %
46	Uzbekistan	86.831 %
47	North Korea	86.502 %
48	Uruguay	86.425 %
49	Barbados	86.345 %
50	United Kingdom	86.339 %
51	Argentina	86.235 %
52	Indonesia	86.011 %
53	Dominican Republic	85.895 %
54	Sri Lanka	85.206 %
55	Philippines	85.142 %
56	Guam	85.128 %
57	Yemen	84.897 %
58	Iran	84.784 %
59	Netherlands	84.706 %
60	Saudi Arabia	84.414 %
61	Tajikistan	84.184 %
62	Sao Tome and Principe	84.036 %
63	India	83.934 %
64	China	83.704 %
65	Gabon	83.5 %
66	Afghanistan	83.324 %
67	Haiti	83.067 %
68	Malaysia	82.904 %
69	Turkey	82.692 %
70	Somalia	82.645 %
71	Bahamas	82.476 %
72	Cuba	82.429 %
73	Chile	82.166 %
74	Colombia	82.094 %
75	Brunei Darussalam	81.98 %
76	Montenegro	81.905 %
77	Australia	81.859 %
78	Nigeria	81.57 %
79	Syrian Arab Republic	81.348 %
80	Puerto Rico	81.025 %
81	Turks and Caicos Islands	80.934 %
82	Algeria	80.77 %
83	San Marino	80.672 %
84	Seychelles	79.85 %
85	Oman	79.645 %
86	Brazil	79.616 %
87	South Africa	79.3 %
88	Spain	79.157 %
89	Russia	79.148 %
90	Azerbaijan	79.051 %
91	Belgium	79.022 %
92	Ecuador	78.296 %
93	Morocco	78.221 %
94	Turkmenistan	77.933 %
95	Ghana	77.633 %
96	Mexico	77.502 %
97	Kazakhstan	77.413 %
98	Armenia	77.326 %
99	Italy	76.882 %
100	Switzerland	76.855 %
101	Kenya	76.738 %
102	Kyrgyzstan	76.616 %
103	El Salvador	76.539 %
104	American Samoa	76.355 %
105	New Zealand	76.301 %
106	Canada	76.264 %
107	Iceland	76.222 %
108	Liechtenstein	76.065 %
109	Cyprus	75.962 %
110	Antigua and Barbuda	75.945 %
111	Angola	75.837 %
112	Libya	75.813 %
113	Gambia	75.616 %
114	Cameroon	75.514 %
115	Uganda	75.403 %
116	Saint Lucia	75.266 %
117	Belarus	74.854 %
118	Andorra	74.647 %
119	Sudan	74.643 %
120	Ukraine	74.563 %
121	United States	74.356 %
122	Tuvalu	74.345 %
123	Guatemala	74.313 %
124	Costa Rica	74.027 %
125	Guyana	73.869 %
126	Benin	73.855 %
127	Peru	73.802 %
128	United States Virgin Islands	73.64 %
129	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	73.585 %
130	Germany	73.348 %
131	Nepal	73.145 %
132	Togo	73 %
133	Suriname	72.872 %
134	Guadeloupe	72.765 %
135	Jamaica	72.71 %
136	Cabo Verde	72.697 %
137	Grenada	72.524 %
138	Bolivia	72.189 %
139	French Guiana	72.127 %
140	Kosovo	72.027 %
141	Martinique	71.707 %
142	Tunisia	71.445 %
143	Senegal	71.295 %
144	Portugal	71.078 %
145	North Macedonia	71.064 %
146	Luxembourg	71.018 %
147	Mongolia	70.979 %
148	Botswana	70.236 %
149	Malawi	69.448 %
150	Myanmar	69.39 %
151	Sweden	69.334 %
152	Cambodia	68.951 %
153	Albania	68.799 %
154	Panama	68.771 %
155	Côte d'Ivoire	68.632 %
156	Northern Mariana Islands	68.536 %
157	Greece	67.91 %
158	Isle of Man	67.686 %
159	Ethiopia	66.359 %
160	Kiribati	66.244 %
161	New Caledonia	65.831 %
162	Serbia	65.551 %
163	Estonia	65.51 %
164	South Sudan	65.334 %
165	Norway	65.293 %
166	Denmark	65.187 %
167	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	65.185 %
168	Georgia	64.718 %
169	Nicaragua	64.634 %
170	Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba	64.217 %
171	Eritrea	63.982 %
172	British Virgin Islands	63.872 %
173	French Polynesia	63.229 %
174	Hungary	62.829 %
175	France	62.388 %
176	Thailand	61.978 %
177	Finland	61.247 %
178	Tonga	60.804 %
179	Bulgaria	60.746 %
180	Mauritania	60.634 %
181	Honduras	60.506 %
182	Czech Republic	60.447 %
183	Paraguay	60.419 %
184	Poland	60.349 %
185	Austria	59.157 %
186	Liberia	59.078 %
187	Lithuania	58.749 %
188	Belize	58.412 %
189	Samoa	58.093 %
190	Latvia	58.055 %
191	Tanzania	57.826 %
192	Maldives	57.78 %
193	Sierra Leone	57.73 %
194	Central African Republic	55.57 %
195	Fiji	55.563 %
196	Ireland	55.559 %
197	Guinea	55.149 %
198	Romania	55.04 %
199	Croatia	54.785 %
200	Zambia	54.709 %
201	Guinea-Bissau	54.377 %
202	Slovakia	53.711 %
203	Republic of Moldova	53.55 %
204	Marshall Islands	53.097 %
205	Mozambique	52.986 %
206	Chad	52.192 %
207	Bosnia and Herzegovina	51.582 %
208	Niger	51.389 %
209	Burkina Faso	51.239 %
210	Timor-Leste	50.807 %
211	Slovenia	50.717 %
212	Mali	48.918 %
213	Papua New Guinea	47.567 %
214	Madagascar	44.562 %
215	Dominica	43.447 %
216	Namibia	43.422 %
217	Greenland	42.547 %
218	Saint Kitts and Nevis	42.24 %
219	Lesotho	39.763 %
220	Palau	39.434 %
221	Faroe Islands	36.626 %
222	Zimbabwe	34.464 %
223	Bhutan	32.089 %
224	Laos	31.989 %
225	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	30.557 %
226	Vanuatu	30.101 %
227	Eswatini	24.278 %
228	Solomon Islands	23.658 %
229	Cook Islands	0 %
230	Falkland Islands (Malvinas)	0 %
231	Montserrat	0 %
232	Niue	0 %
233	Saint Helena	0 %
234	Anguilla	0 %
235	Saint Pierre and Miquelon	0 %
236	Tokelau	0 %
237	Wallis and Futuna Islands	0 %

↑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 "Percentage of population by degree of urbanization" is a crucial metric that reveals the extent to which populations globally are shifting towards urban living. As of 2024, this statistic provides insight into social dynamics, economic growth, and the challenges of urban planning and resource distribution. With urbanization at the forefront of global development, understanding these trends is vital for policymakers and economic strategists alike.

Global Urbanization Trends in 2024

The year 2024 highlights a continued surge in urbanization, with the average global urban population reaching 77.48%. This trend underscores a significant shift towards city living, driven by the promise of economic opportunities, improved infrastructure, and better living conditions. Notably, smaller or densely populated regions like the Holy See, Monaco, and Gibraltar have achieved a complete urbanization rate of 100%. This reflects a broader trend where smaller nations or city-states are naturally predisposed to higher urbanization due to limited land space and a concentration of resources.

Regional Disparities in Urbanization

While many countries experience high urbanization rates, regional disparities remain stark. Africa and parts of Eastern Europe exhibit lower urbanization levels, with Zambia (54.71%) and Croatia (54.785%) among the least urbanized. These differences can be attributed to varying economic conditions, historical development patterns, and governance structures. In contrast, Asian territories such as Singapore (99.888%) and Macao SAR (99.871%) showcase near-total urbanization, a testament to their rapid economic development and strategic urban policies.

The growing urban population has profound implications for economic growth and social dynamics. Urban areas typically offer greater economic opportunities, leading to wealth generation and improved standards of living. However, they also pose challenges such as overcrowding, strain on infrastructure, and increased socio-economic inequality. Countries like Bangladesh (98.001%) and Egypt (97.362%), which have high urban populations, face the dual task of managing rapid urban growth while ensuring equitable resource distribution and sustainable development.

Year-over-Year Changes and Emerging Patterns

Analyzing year-over-year changes reveals intriguing patterns. On average, there has been a 0.2% increase in global urbanization, with Uganda (+1.33%) and Malawi (+1.17%) leading the rise. These increases reflect ongoing migration from rural to urban areas, driven by economic prospects and developmental initiatives. Conversely, some regions like Saint Vincent and the Grenadines recorded a decrease of 0.93%, indicating potential demographic shifts or challenges in urban infrastructure that may deter urban growth.

Future Outlook and Strategic Planning

The trajectory of urbanization suggests that by the next decade, we may witness even higher urbanization rates, posing both opportunities and challenges. Strategic urban planning, sustainable resource management, and inclusive policies will be paramount in addressing the needs of growing urban populations. Countries must innovate and adapt to maintain economic vitality while ensuring societal well-being. The continuous monitoring of urbanization trends will be essential for crafting policies that foster sustainable urban environments and enhance quality of life for all residents.

In conclusion, the 2024 data on the percentage of population by degree of urbanization offers a compelling snapshot of global trends. While the shift towards urban living continues unabated, it presents a complex web of economic opportunities and challenges that demand astute policy responses and strategic vision from global leaders.

Insights by country

Wallis and Futuna Islands

In 2024, Wallis and Futuna Islands ranks 237th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with an urban population percentage of 0%. This statistic indicates that the entire population resides in rural areas, reflecting the islands' small size, isolation, and traditional lifestyle.

The lack of urbanization in Wallis and Futuna can be attributed to its geographical characteristics, as it consists of three main islands with limited infrastructure and economic opportunities that typically drive urban migration. The islands maintain a predominantly subsistence-based economy, which further reinforces rural living conditions.

Additionally, cultural factors play a significant role, as the local communities prioritize traditional ways of life and social cohesion over urban development. This is characteristic of many small island nations where population density is low and traditional practices remain strong.

Georgia

In 2024, Georgia ranks 168 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with a recorded value of 64.718%. This statistic highlights a significant urbanization trend in the country, reflecting a shift from rural to urban living conditions.

The urbanization rate in Georgia can be attributed to several factors, including economic development, improved infrastructure, and migration patterns. As urban centers often provide better access to employment opportunities, education, and healthcare, many individuals are drawn to cities in search of a higher quality of life.

Additionally, historical events, such as the dissolution of the Soviet Union, have influenced demographic changes, leading to increased urbanization as people sought stability and resources in urban areas. It is interesting to note that urbanization is a common trend in many developing countries, where urban populations continue to grow at a faster pace than rural populations.

Haiti

In 2024, Haiti ranks 67th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with an impressive 83.067% of its populace residing in urban settings. This high degree of urbanization reflects the significant migration from rural to urban regions, driven largely by the search for better economic opportunities and access to essential services.

The concentration of the population in urban areas can be attributed to several factors, including economic challenges, environmental degradation, and the impact of natural disasters that have historically affected rural livelihoods. Additionally, urban centers like Port-au-Prince have become focal points for international aid and development efforts, further attracting rural dwellers.

Interestingly, urbanization in Haiti is part of a broader trend observed in many developing nations, where cities grow rapidly due to both natural population growth and migration. This trend poses challenges, such as increased demand for housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, which are critical for sustainable urban development.

France

In 2024, France ranks 175th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with 62.388% of the population classified as urban dwellers. This statistic highlights the significant urbanization trend in France, where major cities such as Paris, Marseille, and Lyon attract a large portion of the population due to economic opportunities and lifestyle amenities.

The degree of urbanization in France can be attributed to various factors, including an advanced economy, improved infrastructure, and the concentration of services in urban centers. Additionally, rural depopulation and migration to cities for education and employment are contributing to the increasing urban population.

Interestingly, this urbanization rate places France in the context of broader European trends, where urban living is prevalent. As urban areas continue to expand, challenges such as housing shortages, transportation congestion, and environmental concerns also emerge, necessitating effective urban planning and policy responses.

Guadeloupe

In 2024, Guadeloupe ranks 134th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with 72.765% of its residents classified as urban. This statistic highlights a significant urbanization trend within the island, reflecting changes in social, economic, and environmental dynamics.

The high percentage of urbanization in Guadeloupe can be attributed to factors such as economic opportunities concentrated in urban centers, migration from rural areas, and the ongoing development of infrastructure that facilitates urban living. Urban areas tend to offer better access to services, employment, and education, drawing inhabitants from less urbanized regions.

Interestingly, this urbanization rate aligns with broader trends observed in many Caribbean nations, where urbanization is often linked to tourism, trade, and globalization. As urban areas expand, they may face challenges such as increased demand for housing, transportation, and public services, which are critical for sustainable development.

Guyana

In 2024, Guyana ranks 125th out of 237 countries in terms of the degree of urbanization, with approximately 73.869% of its population residing in urban areas. This statistic reflects a significant trend towards urbanization in the country, driven by factors such as economic development, migration from rural to urban regions, and the concentration of services and opportunities in cities.

The urban population growth can be attributed to several causes, including the search for better employment opportunities, access to education and healthcare, and improved living conditions in urban settings. Additionally, the capital city, Georgetown, serves as a major hub for economic activities, drawing individuals from various parts of the country.

As urbanization continues to increase, it poses both challenges and opportunities for Guyana, including the need for sustainable urban planning and infrastructure development to accommodate the growing population. Interestingly, the urbanization rate in Guyana is reflective of broader trends seen throughout the Caribbean region, where urban centers are becoming increasingly pivotal to national economies.

Bermuda

Bermuda ranks 7th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with an impressive 98.484% of its population living in urban areas as of 2024. This high degree of urbanization is indicative of the island’s development and infrastructure, which is concentrated in urban centers such as Hamilton, the capital, and other coastal communities.

Several factors contribute to Bermuda's urbanization, including its small land area, economic reliance on tourism and international business, and the concentration of services and amenities in urban locales. The majority of the population resides in a few densely populated areas, which facilitates access to employment and social services.

Additionally, Bermuda's urban landscape is characterized by its unique architecture and high standard of living, which attracts both residents and visitors. The high urbanization rate is also complemented by a well-developed public transportation system and a strong sense of community, further enhancing the quality of life in urban settings.

Algeria

In 2024, Algeria ranks 82nd out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with an impressive 80.77% of its inhabitants classified as urban dwellers. This significant level of urbanization reflects Algeria's ongoing shift from rural to urban living, largely driven by economic opportunities and infrastructural development in cities.

The rapid urbanization in Algeria can be attributed to several factors, including industrialization, migration from rural areas, and government investment in urban infrastructure. Over the past few decades, the country's urban centers have expanded, attracting individuals seeking better employment prospects and improved living standards.

Interestingly, Algeria's urbanization rate is consistent with trends observed in many developing nations, where urban areas often provide greater access to services such as education, healthcare, and employment. This transition poses both challenges and opportunities for the country as it navigates urban planning, resource allocation, and sustainable development in increasingly populated cities.

Grenada

In 2024, Grenada ranks 137th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with 72.524% of its population living in urban areas. This statistic indicates a significant urban presence, reflecting the country's development and migration patterns.

The degree of urbanization in Grenada can be attributed to various factors, including economic opportunities in urban centers, the concentration of services, and infrastructure development. As the capital city, St. George's, serves as a hub for commerce and administration, it attracts residents from rural areas seeking better livelihoods.

Additionally, the urbanization trend in Grenada is consistent with broader global patterns where increasing numbers of individuals move to cities for enhanced access to education, healthcare, and employment. Notably, as of 2021, the global average urbanization rate was approximately 56%, illustrating Grenada's above-average urban population.

Jordan

Jordan ranks 20th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of population by degree of urbanization, with an impressive 93.686% of its population residing in urban areas as of 2024. This high level of urbanization reflects the significant migration of rural populations to cities, primarily driven by the pursuit of better economic opportunities and access to services.

The urbanization in Jordan can be attributed to several factors, including the concentration of infrastructure, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities in urban centers, particularly in Amman, the capital. Additionally, ongoing regional conflicts and the influx of refugees have further accelerated urban growth, as displaced individuals often settle in urban areas seeking stability and employment.

Interestingly, Jordan's urbanization rate is among the highest in the Middle East, highlighting the country's rapid development and demographic changes. This urban concentration presents both opportunities for economic growth and challenges, such as urban sprawl and the need for sustainable urban planning to accommodate the growing population.

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 Percentage of population by degree of urbanization data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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