Percentage of population by degree of urbanization 2025

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	99.88 %
5	China, Macao SAR	99.879 %
6	China, Hong Kong SAR	99.554 %
7	Bermuda	98.504 %
8	Bangladesh	98.012 %
9	Bahrain	98.001 %
10	Egypt	97.46 %
11	Sint Maarten (Dutch part)	97.238 %
12	Kuwait	96.487 %
13	Aruba	95.544 %
14	Malta	95.508 %
15	State of Palestine	94.84 %
16	Curaçao	94.733 %
17	Taiwan	94.619 %
18	Mayotte	94.128 %
19	Rwanda	94.063 %
20	Israel	93.84 %
21	Jordan	93.738 %
22	Qatar	93.436 %
23	Cayman Islands	92.617 %
24	Nauru	92.336 %
25	Congo	91.889 %
26	Japan	91.379 %
27	United Arab Emirates	91.288 %
28	Guernsey	90.977 %
29	Mauritius	90.854 %
30	Jersey	90.76 %
31	South Korea	90.42 %
32	Equatorial Guinea	90.094 %
33	Lebanon	90.054 %
34	Djibouti	89.378 %
35	Burundi	89.201 %
36	Pakistan	89.083 %
37	Western Sahara	89.054 %
38	Venezuela	88.635 %
39	Réunion	88.373 %
40	Iraq	87.667 %
41	Trinidad and Tobago	87.617 %
42	Comoros	87.555 %
43	Vietnam	87.522 %
44	Uzbekistan	87.151 %
45	Saint Barthélemy	86.878 %
46	North Korea	86.484 %
47	Uruguay	86.469 %
48	Saint Martin (French part)	86.453 %
49	United Kingdom	86.41 %
50	Barbados	86.343 %
51	Argentina	86.282 %
52	Indonesia	86.036 %
53	Dominican Republic	85.986 %
54	Sri Lanka	85.333 %
55	Guam	85.271 %
56	Philippines	85.222 %
57	Iran	84.804 %
58	Netherlands	84.804 %
59	Yemen	84.727 %
60	Saudi Arabia	84.586 %
61	Tajikistan	84.502 %
62	Sao Tome and Principe	84.17 %
63	India	84.064 %
64	China	83.72 %
65	Gabon	83.592 %
66	Haiti	83.189 %
67	Afghanistan	83.081 %
68	Malaysia	83.051 %
69	Turkey	82.781 %
70	Somalia	82.641 %
71	Bahamas	82.508 %
72	Cuba	82.507 %
73	Brunei Darussalam	82.27 %
74	Chile	82.265 %
75	Colombia	82.244 %
76	Turks and Caicos Islands	81.953 %
77	Montenegro	81.936 %
78	Syrian Arab Republic	81.822 %
79	Nigeria	81.794 %
80	Australia	81.777 %
81	Puerto Rico	81.062 %
82	Algeria	81 %
83	San Marino	80.728 %
84	Oman	80.17 %
85	Seychelles	80.114 %
86	Brazil	79.706 %
87	South Africa	79.459 %
88	Spain	79.286 %
89	Russia	79.232 %
90	Belgium	79.171 %
91	Azerbaijan	79.081 %
92	Ecuador	78.491 %
93	Turkmenistan	78.262 %
94	Morocco	78.249 %
95	Ghana	77.813 %
96	Kazakhstan	77.583 %
97	Mexico	77.544 %
98	Armenia	77.408 %
99	Kenya	77.056 %
100	Switzerland	77.056 %
101	Italy	76.915 %
102	Kyrgyzstan	76.868 %
103	Uganda	76.662 %
104	El Salvador	76.654 %
105	Iceland	76.305 %
106	New Zealand	76.305 %
107	Canada	76.269 %
108	Liechtenstein	76.196 %
109	Antigua and Barbuda	76.062 %
110	Cyprus	76.031 %
111	Angola	75.966 %
112	Libya	75.904 %
113	Saint Lucia	75.89 %
114	Cameroon	75.807 %
115	Gambia	75.786 %
116	American Samoa	75.73 %
117	Belarus	75.124 %
118	Andorra	74.942 %
119	Tuvalu	74.875 %
120	Ukraine	74.711 %
121	Guatemala	74.639 %
122	Sudan	74.611 %
123	United States	74.437 %
124	Benin	74.14 %
125	Costa Rica	74.114 %
126	Peru	73.99 %
127	Guyana	73.923 %
128	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	73.733 %
129	United States Virgin Islands	73.643 %
130	Germany	73.429 %
131	Togo	73.39 %
132	Suriname	73.378 %
133	Nepal	73.278 %
134	Cabo Verde	72.968 %
135	Jamaica	72.798 %
136	French Guiana	72.604 %
137	Grenada	72.537 %
138	Bolivia	72.413 %
139	Guadeloupe	72.153 %
140	Kosovo	71.962 %
141	Martinique	71.778 %
142	Senegal	71.614 %
143	Luxembourg	71.552 %
144	Tunisia	71.492 %
145	Portugal	71.218 %
146	North Macedonia	71.198 %
147	Mongolia	71.092 %
148	Malawi	70.559 %
149	Botswana	70.475 %
150	Sweden	69.456 %
151	Myanmar	69.396 %
152	Cambodia	69.159 %
153	Albania	69.033 %
154	Côte d'Ivoire	68.93 %
155	Panama	68.878 %
156	Northern Mariana Islands	68.75 %
157	Greece	68.106 %
158	Isle of Man	67.72 %
159	Ethiopia	66.795 %
160	Kiribati	66.173 %
161	New Caledonia	65.882 %
162	Serbia	65.737 %
163	Estonia	65.632 %
164	Norway	65.49 %
165	South Sudan	65.37 %
166	Denmark	65.283 %
167	Georgia	64.819 %
168	Nicaragua	64.69 %
169	Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba	64.561 %
170	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	64.245 %
171	British Virgin Islands	64.09 %
172	Eritrea	64.062 %
173	French Polynesia	63.638 %
174	Hungary	62.899 %
175	France	62.456 %
176	Thailand	62.311 %
177	Finland	61.339 %
178	Mauritania	60.961 %
179	Bulgaria	60.911 %
180	Tonga	60.862 %
181	Honduras	60.838 %
182	Paraguay	60.664 %
183	Czech Republic	60.541 %
184	Poland	60.425 %
185	Austria	59.263 %
186	Liberia	59.086 %
187	Lithuania	58.952 %
188	Belize	58.946 %
189	Tanzania	58.761 %
190	Latvia	58.291 %
191	Samoa	58.172 %
192	Maldives	58.092 %
193	Sierra Leone	57.741 %
194	Ireland	55.735 %
195	Fiji	55.564 %
196	Guinea	55.496 %
197	Central African Republic	55.456 %
198	Romania	55.124 %
199	Zambia	55.035 %
200	Croatia	54.887 %
201	Guinea-Bissau	54.251 %
202	Slovakia	53.758 %
203	Mozambique	53.63 %
204	Republic of Moldova	53.598 %
205	Chad	52.341 %
206	Niger	51.81 %
207	Bosnia and Herzegovina	51.684 %
208	Burkina Faso	51.652 %
209	Marshall Islands	51.248 %
210	Timor-Leste	51.143 %
211	Slovenia	50.818 %
212	Mali	49.316 %
213	Papua New Guinea	47.86 %
214	Madagascar	44.933 %
215	Namibia	43.787 %
216	Dominica	43.588 %
217	Greenland	42.548 %
218	Saint Kitts and Nevis	42.241 %
219	Lesotho	40.24 %
220	Palau	39.471 %
221	Faroe Islands	36.344 %
222	Zimbabwe	34.658 %
223	Bhutan	32.474 %
224	Laos	32.306 %
225	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	30.845 %
226	Vanuatu	30.135 %
227	Eswatini	24.459 %
228	Solomon Islands	24.053 %
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" offers a revealing snapshot of global living patterns in 2025, highlighting the ongoing shift towards urban living. This metric is pivotal in understanding economic growth and development trends, as urbanization directly influences resource allocation and urban planning strategies. With data spanning 200 countries, this comprehensive analysis sheds light on the significant contrasts and trends that define our current global landscape.

Global Urbanization Trends in 2025

In 2025, the average percentage of urbanized population across surveyed countries stands at 77.61%, indicating a widespread move towards urban centers. This trend is emblematic of the global push for modernization and economic efficiency. Countries like the Holy See, Monaco, and Gibraltar, with a complete urban population (100%), exemplify the pinnacle of urban living. In contrast, nations such as Croatia and Zambia show considerably lower urbanization rates, with figures hovering around 55%, reflecting the diverse nature of urban expansion worldwide.

Economic Implications of Urbanization

Urbanization is not merely a demographic phenomenon; it is intricately linked with economic development. Urban areas often act as hubs of economic activity, innovation, and job creation. Countries with higher urbanization rates like Singapore (99.88%) and China, Macao SAR (99.879%) have leveraged their urbanized environments to boost economic growth through enhanced infrastructure, greater access to education, and a more robust labor market. Conversely, less urbanized nations might face challenges in realizing similar economic advantages, which underscores the importance of strategic urban planning and investment.

Regional Discrepancies and Challenges

The data reveal stark regional discrepancies in urbanization, which are often influenced by geographic, cultural, and economic factors. For instance, countries in Africa such as Malawi and Uganda have shown notable increases in urbanization, with year-over-year changes of 1.11% and 1.26% respectively. This growth highlights a dynamic shift as these regions strive to accommodate burgeoning urban populations. However, the challenges of rapid urbanization, such as infrastructure strain and resource management, remain significant hurdles that require attention.

Impact of Policy Changes on Urbanization

Policy frameworks play a crucial role in shaping the degree of urbanization. Countries that have invested in urban infrastructure and policies promoting sustainable urban growth often see higher urbanization rates. For example, Egypt, with an urban population percentage of 97.46%, reflects effective urban policies that facilitate such growth. On the other hand, countries like Afghanistan, which experienced a decrease in urbanization by 0.24%, may reflect geopolitical and economic instability impacting urban development negatively. These examples highlight the importance of cohesive governance and international cooperation in fostering urban environments conducive to growth.

Future Projections and Considerations

Looking ahead, the trajectory of urbanization is expected to continue its upward trend, driven by technological advancements and economic imperatives. However, this growth is contingent on the ability of nations to manage urban challenges effectively, from housing and transport to environmental sustainability. As urban areas expand, the need for innovative solutions in urban planning becomes more pressing. Countries lagging behind in urbanization, like the Central African Republic and Fiji, may need to focus on balanced regional development strategies to ensure equitable growth. The global community must address these challenges collaboratively to harness the full potential of urbanization, ensuring it remains a catalyst for economic development rather than a source of disparity.

Understanding the "Percentage of Population by Degree of Urbanization" in 2025 provides valuable insights into the demographic and economic landscapes of nations worldwide. As urbanization continues to shape the contours of global society, it remains a critical area of focus for policymakers, economists, and planners alike.

Insights by country

Timor-Leste

In 2025, Timor-Leste is ranked 210 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with an urbanization rate of 51.143%. This statistic indicates that just over half of the population resides in urban settings, reflecting ongoing trends of urban migration in the country.

The degree of urbanization in Timor-Leste can be attributed to several factors, including economic opportunities associated with urban centers, improved infrastructure, and services in cities compared to rural areas. Additionally, the country has experienced significant demographic changes since its independence in 2002, which has spurred internal migration as individuals seek better living conditions and access to resources.

Interestingly, urbanization rates in Timor-Leste are projected to continue rising, which is consistent with global trends where developing nations are witnessing increasing urban populations. As of 2025, this demographic shift poses both challenges and opportunities for urban planning, public service provision, and sustainable development in the nation.

Cyprus

In 2025, Cyprus is ranked 110 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with 76.031% of the population classified as urban. This statistic reflects a significant degree of urbanization in the country, indicating that three-quarters of its inhabitants reside in cities and urban centers.

The high urbanization rate in Cyprus can be attributed to several factors, including economic development, improved infrastructure, and migration trends. Urban areas tend to offer better access to employment opportunities, education, and healthcare services, which are pivotal in attracting people from rural areas.

Additionally, Cyprus has experienced urban growth due to its strategic location, tourism, and real estate developments, particularly in coastal cities. This trend is consistent with global patterns where urbanization is driven by the pursuit of better living standards and economic prospects.

Dominica

In 2025, Dominica ranks 216th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with 43.588% of its population residing in urban areas. This relatively low percentage reflects the country's ongoing reliance on rural communities, where agriculture remains a vital aspect of daily life and economic sustenance.

The degree of urbanization in Dominica can be attributed to several factors, including the island's geographical constraints, limited industrialization, and the preservation of traditional lifestyles. Additionally, natural disasters, such as hurricanes, have historically impacted urban development, leading to a slower transition towards urbanization compared to other Caribbean nations.

Interestingly, Dominica is known for its rich natural environment and biodiversity, which may influence residents' preference for rural living. The country has made strides in promoting eco-tourism and sustainable practices, which could slow urban migration as communities focus on preserving their natural heritage.

Gibraltar

In 2025, Gibraltar achieved a remarkable status as the most urbanized territory in the world, with a population that is 100% urban. This statistic reflects the unique geographical and demographic characteristics of Gibraltar, a small British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula.

The total urbanization can be attributed to Gibraltar's compact size, measuring only about 6.7 square kilometers, and its dense population of approximately 34,000 residents. The urban landscape is dominated by residential areas, commercial establishments, and infrastructure that cater to its population, all contributing to a fully urban environment.

Factors influencing this high degree of urbanization include the territory's limited land area, historical development patterns, and the strong economic focus on sectors such as tourism and financial services. Moreover, the absence of rural areas due to its geographical constraints further solidifies Gibraltar's position as a fully urbanized entity.

Greece

In 2025, Greece ranks 157th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with a significant 68.106% of its populace residing in urban settings. This statistic reflects the increasing trend of urbanization in Greece, particularly in major cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, where economic opportunities and services are concentrated.

The degree of urbanization in Greece can be attributed to various factors, including the migration of individuals from rural areas to cities in search of better employment prospects, education, and healthcare. Additionally, the historical context of urban development during the 20th century, coupled with Greece's economic challenges and recovery efforts, has played a role in shaping urban demographics.

As a related fact, it is noteworthy that urbanization rates can influence various aspects of societal structure, including infrastructure development, housing markets, and public service demands. Furthermore, the urbanization trend in Greece mirrors broader global patterns, where urban areas increasingly attract populations due to the allure of modern amenities and economic growth.

India

In 2025, India is projected to have an urbanization rate of 84.064%, ranking 63rd out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of its population living in urban areas. This significant level of urbanization reflects the ongoing migration from rural to urban settings, driven by factors such as economic opportunities, better infrastructure, and access to services.

The rapid urbanization in India can be attributed to several factors, including industrialization, the growth of service sectors, and the increasing availability of education and healthcare in urban centers. Additionally, the government’s initiatives to develop smart cities and improve urban infrastructure have further accelerated this trend.

As urban areas continue to expand, they are expected to face challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate housing, and strain on public services. Interestingly, urbanization has been linked to higher economic productivity and improved living standards, although it also raises concerns about environmental sustainability and urban planning.

Bhutan

In 2025, Bhutan ranks 223rd out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with a population that is 32.474% urban. This relatively low percentage indicates that a significant majority of the population resides in rural areas, reflecting Bhutan's unique socio-economic structure and cultural heritage.

The degree of urbanization in Bhutan is influenced by various factors, including its mountainous geography, which limits the development of urban centers. Additionally, the government's emphasis on preserving traditional lifestyles and the environment has led to slower urban migration compared to other nations. Rural communities are often deeply connected to agriculture and local traditions, which may discourage urban relocation.

Interestingly, Bhutan's commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) prioritizes well-being over economic growth, which may also affect urbanization trends. As of recent years, the country has been slowly experiencing urban growth, with cities like Thimphu seeing increased population density, yet the overall urbanization rate remains modest compared to global averages.

Afghanistan

In 2025, Afghanistan ranks 67th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population by degree of urbanization, with an impressive 83.081% of its populace living in urban areas. This high level of urbanization reflects significant demographic shifts and the increasing concentration of populations in cities, driven by factors such as conflict, economic opportunities, and internal migration.

The transition towards urban living in Afghanistan can be attributed to the ongoing search for security and stability as individuals flee rural areas affected by violence and instability. Additionally, urban centers like Kabul have become hubs for employment and services, attracting a large number of migrants seeking better living conditions.

Interestingly, Afghanistan's urbanization rate is notably high compared to many of its neighboring countries, and it signals a transformation in its socio-economic landscape. This trend may also pose challenges, such as increased demand for infrastructure, housing, and social services in urban areas, necessitating comprehensive planning and investment to ensure sustainable urban growth.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks 207th out of 237 countries in terms of urbanization, with a population percentage of 51.684% living in urban areas as of the year 2025. This statistic indicates that just over half of the country's population resides in cities and towns, reflecting a significant rural demographic still present in the country.

The degree of urbanization in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be attributed to several factors, including historical economic challenges, post-war recovery dynamics, and ongoing migration trends. Urban areas, particularly the capital Sarajevo, offer better access to employment opportunities, education, and healthcare, which can attract individuals from rural regions seeking improved living standards.

Additionally, the urbanization rate is influenced by the effects of the 1992-1995 Bosnian War, which led to significant population displacement and urban growth in certain areas. Interestingly, the urbanization rate in Bosnia and Herzegovina is relatively low compared to many European countries, where urban populations often exceed 70%.

Kenya

In 2025, Kenya ranks 99th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of its population living in urban areas, with 77.056% of its citizens classified as urban dwellers. This significant urbanization rate reflects the country's ongoing transition from rural to urban living, driven by factors such as economic opportunities, improved infrastructure, and social services concentrated in cities.

The rapid urbanization in Kenya can be attributed to several influences, including rural-to-urban migration, population growth, and the allure of urban amenities. Cities like Nairobi and Mombasa are pivotal economic hubs that attract individuals seeking better employment prospects and living standards.

Moreover, urbanization in Kenya poses challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate housing, and strain on public services. Nonetheless, it also offers opportunities for economic development and improved access to education and healthcare, highlighting a complex interplay between growth and sustainability.

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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