Urban Population Annual Growth Rate 2017
Urban population annual growth rate measures the year-over-year percentage increase in a country's urban population.
Interactive Map
Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Somalia | 9.017 % | |
2 | Cambodia | 8.901 % | |
3 | Burundi | 8.593 % | |
4 | Rwanda | 8.069 % | |
5 | Solomon Islands | 6.978 % | |
6 | Uganda | 6.249 % | |
7 | Mali | 5.497 % | |
8 | Mauritania | 5.375 % | |
9 | Bahrain | 5.293 % | |
10 | Tanzania | 5.031 % | |
11 | Saint Lucia | 4.939 % | |
12 | Ethiopia | 4.876 % | |
13 | Yemen | 4.839 % | |
14 | Chad | 4.807 % | |
15 | Angola | 4.755 % | |
16 | Senegal | 4.737 % | |
17 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 4.572 % | |
18 | Turks and Caicos Islands | 4.378 % | |
19 | Benin | 4.34 % | |
20 | Maldives | 4.273 % | |
21 | Niger | 4.252 % | |
22 | Namibia | 4.108 % | |
23 | Lesotho | 4.079 % | |
24 | Oman | 4.003 % | |
25 | Zambia | 3.973 % | |
26 | Equatorial Guinea | 3.961 % | |
27 | Nigeria | 3.85 % | |
28 | Kiribati | 3.802 % | |
29 | Côte d'Ivoire | 3.755 % | |
30 | Sudan | 3.754 % | |
31 | Mozambique | 3.744 % | |
32 | Kuwait | 3.695 % | |
33 | Papua New Guinea | 3.58 % | |
34 | Laos | 3.574 % | |
35 | Sierra Leone | 3.546 % | |
36 | Gambia | 3.534 % | |
37 | Afghanistan | 3.521 % | |
38 | Cameroon | 3.456 % | |
39 | Burkina Faso | 3.453 % | |
40 | Madagascar | 3.44 % | |
41 | Guinea-Bissau | 3.44 % | |
42 | United Arab Emirates | 3.383 % | |
43 | Guinea | 3.326 % | |
44 | Zimbabwe | 3.25 % | |
45 | Thailand | 3.206 % | |
46 | Comoros | 3.186 % | |
47 | Gabon | 3.173 % | |
48 | Ghana | 3.173 % | |
49 | Kosovo | 3.127 % | |
50 | Malawi | 3.109 % | |
51 | Luxembourg | 3.042 % | |
52 | Slovenia | 3 % | |
53 | Liberia | 2.966 % | |
54 | China | 2.957 % | |
55 | Algeria | 2.859 % | |
56 | Malta | 2.829 % | |
57 | Paraguay | 2.814 % | |
58 | Kazakhstan | 2.803 % | |
59 | Vietnam | 2.8 % | |
60 | Qatar | 2.782 % | |
61 | Togo | 2.772 % | |
62 | Honduras | 2.759 % | |
63 | Central African Republic | 2.749 % | |
64 | Haiti | 2.646 % | |
65 | Philippines | 2.608 % | |
66 | Jordan | 2.597 % | |
67 | Congo | 2.593 % | |
68 | Switzerland | 2.537 % | |
69 | Bhutan | 2.432 % | |
70 | Peru | 2.419 % | |
71 | Iceland | 2.335 % | |
72 | Turkmenistan | 2.308 % | |
73 | Malaysia | 2.273 % | |
74 | Cayman Islands | 2.249 % | |
75 | Indonesia | 2.207 % | |
76 | Iraq | 2.205 % | |
77 | Azerbaijan | 2.186 % | |
78 | Pakistan | 2.173 % | |
79 | San Marino | 2.164 % | |
80 | Andorra | 2.163 % | |
81 | Iran | 2.142 % | |
82 | India | 2.122 % | |
83 | Tajikistan | 2.08 % | |
84 | Guatemala | 2.077 % | |
85 | Sri Lanka | 2.067 % | |
86 | State of Palestine | 2.036 % | |
87 | Bolivia | 1.953 % | |
88 | Kyrgyzstan | 1.952 % | |
89 | Bangladesh | 1.937 % | |
90 | Sint Maarten (Dutch part) | 1.934 % | |
91 | Vanuatu | 1.925 % | |
92 | Eswatini | 1.925 % | |
93 | Israel | 1.918 % | |
94 | Djibouti | 1.88 % | |
95 | Mongolia | 1.85 % | |
96 | Egypt | 1.828 % | |
97 | Kenya | 1.82 % | |
98 | Panama | 1.806 % | |
99 | Botswana | 1.801 % | |
100 | Sao Tome and Principe | 1.79 % | |
101 | Chile | 1.777 % | |
102 | Australia | 1.775 % | |
103 | Cabo Verde | 1.763 % | |
104 | Uzbekistan | 1.737 % | |
105 | Gibraltar | 1.729 % | |
106 | Seychelles | 1.72 % | |
107 | Belize | 1.716 % | |
108 | Morocco | 1.708 % | |
109 | Nicaragua | 1.65 % | |
110 | Ireland | 1.637 % | |
111 | Sweden | 1.62 % | |
112 | Costa Rica | 1.619 % | |
113 | Libya | 1.596 % | |
114 | Timor-Leste | 1.593 % | |
115 | Ecuador | 1.574 % | |
116 | Nauru | 1.548 % | |
117 | Colombia | 1.479 % | |
118 | Faroe Islands | 1.472 % | |
119 | New Zealand | 1.471 % | |
120 | Tunisia | 1.382 % | |
121 | Canada | 1.318 % | |
122 | Mexico | 1.296 % | |
123 | Cyprus | 1.271 % | |
124 | Turkey | 1.217 % | |
125 | Netherlands | 1.187 % | |
126 | El Salvador | 1.176 % | |
127 | Brunei Darussalam | 1.165 % | |
128 | Norway | 1.162 % | |
129 | Myanmar | 1.081 % | |
130 | Monaco | 1.073 % | |
131 | Brazil | 1.018 % | |
132 | Denmark | 1.003 % | |
133 | Argentina | 0.982 % | |
134 | Fiji | 0.979 % | |
135 | Austria | 0.965 % | |
136 | Suriname | 0.951 % | |
137 | Dominican Republic | 0.92 % | |
138 | Liechtenstein | 0.893 % | |
139 | North Korea | 0.873 % | |
140 | Jamaica | 0.865 % | |
141 | United Kingdom | 0.797 % | |
142 | China, Hong Kong SAR | 0.769 % | |
143 | South Africa | 0.742 % | |
144 | Finland | 0.709 % | |
145 | Guyana | 0.662 % | |
146 | Belgium | 0.642 % | |
147 | Nepal | 0.639 % | |
148 | Eritrea | 0.584 % | |
149 | United States | 0.574 % | |
150 | Germany | 0.558 % | |
151 | Georgia | 0.534 % | |
152 | Estonia | 0.512 % | |
153 | Bahamas | 0.506 % | |
154 | Micronesia (Fed. States of) | 0.422 % | |
155 | Grenada | 0.398 % | |
156 | Spain | 0.375 % | |
157 | France | 0.35 % | |
158 | French Polynesia | 0.35 % | |
159 | Uruguay | 0.344 % | |
160 | Curaçao | 0.333 % | |
161 | Russia | 0.312 % | |
162 | Saudi Arabia | 0.281 % | |
163 | Antigua and Barbuda | 0.254 % | |
164 | Montenegro | 0.238 % | |
165 | Tuvalu | 0.23 % | |
166 | Barbados | 0.218 % | |
167 | Trinidad and Tobago | 0.205 % | |
168 | North Macedonia | 0.204 % | |
169 | Isle of Man | 0.204 % | |
170 | Bermuda | 0.203 % | |
171 | Czech Republic | 0.18 % | |
172 | South Korea | 0.177 % | |
173 | Greenland | 0.167 % | |
174 | New Caledonia | 0.16 % | |
175 | Belarus | 0.118 % | |
176 | Samoa | 0.092 % | |
177 | Singapore | 0.089 % | |
178 | Saint Kitts and Nevis | 0.068 % | |
179 | Greece | 0.03 % | |
180 | Japan | 0.023 % | |
181 | Slovakia | -0.082 % | |
182 | Cuba | -0.095 % | |
183 | Serbia | -0.142 % | |
184 | Poland | -0.144 % | |
185 | United States Virgin Islands | -0.174 % | |
186 | Mauritius | -0.183 % | |
187 | Armenia | -0.247 % | |
188 | Portugal | -0.251 % | |
189 | Palau | -0.267 % | |
190 | Italy | -0.301 % | |
191 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | -0.317 % | |
192 | Ukraine | -0.32 % | |
193 | Aruba | -0.36 % | |
194 | Hungary | -0.366 % | |
195 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | -0.376 % | |
196 | Guam | -0.453 % | |
197 | Venezuela | -0.612 % | |
198 | China, Macao SAR | -0.63 % | |
199 | Syrian Arab Republic | -0.66 % | |
200 | Albania | -0.815 % | |
201 | Latvia | -0.827 % | |
202 | Tonga | -0.839 % | |
203 | Saint Martin (French part) | -0.913 % | |
204 | Romania | -0.93 % | |
205 | Bulgaria | -1.03 % | |
206 | Dominica | -1.055 % | |
207 | Republic of Moldova | -1.134 % | |
208 | Croatia | -1.299 % | |
209 | Lithuania | -1.344 % | |
210 | Northern Mariana Islands | -1.535 % | |
211 | American Samoa | -1.741 % | |
212 | Puerto Rico | -1.985 % | |
213 | Marshall Islands | -2.012 % | |
214 | British Virgin Islands | -2.128 % | |
215 | Lebanon | -2.368 % | |
216 | South Sudan | -4 % |
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #216
South Sudan
- #215
Lebanon
- #214
British Virgin Islands
- #213
Marshall Islands
- #212
Puerto Rico
- #211
American Samoa
- #210
Northern Mariana Islands
- #209
Lithuania
- #208
Croatia
- #207
Republic of Moldova
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
In 2017, Somalia led the world with the highest Urban Population Annual Growth Rate at 9.02%, while the global range spanned from a low of -0.81% to this peak. The global average growth rate for urban populations stood at 2.00% during this year, highlighting varying trends across different regions and economies.
Drivers of Urban Population Growth
The urban population growth in 2017 was driven by a combination of economic expansion, rural-to-urban migration, and demographic trends. In countries like Somalia and Cambodia, with growth rates of 9.02% and 8.90% respectively, the surge can be attributed to rapid urbanization efforts and population movements from rural to urban areas in search of better economic opportunities. Burundi and Rwanda, with growth rates of 8.59% and 8.07%, also reflect similar patterns where urban centers offer more robust economic prospects and improved living conditions compared to rural areas.
In contrast, smaller island nations like the Solomon Islands, which experienced a growth rate of 6.98%, often see urban growth driven by limited land availability and concentrated economic activities in urban centers. Such demographic shifts underscore the importance of urban planning and infrastructure development to accommodate growing urban populations.
Challenges of Negative Urban Growth
While some countries experienced high urban growth, others faced challenges with negative growth rates. Albania, with a rate of -0.81%, and the Syrian Arab Republic at -0.66%, illustrate situations where urban populations declined. Such decreases are often linked to economic downturns, political instability, or conflict, leading to out-migration and a shrinking urban workforce. In the case of China, Macao SAR and Venezuela, with rates of -0.63% and -0.61% respectively, economic challenges and political factors have contributed to the decline in urban populations.
This trend poses significant challenges for urban planning and economic sustainability, as a shrinking population can lead to a reduced labor force, less economic activity, and underutilization of urban infrastructure.
Significant Year-Over-Year Changes
Analyzing year-over-year changes reveals significant shifts in urban growth dynamics. Slovenia saw the most substantial increase, with a rise of 2.95%, representing a 6253.3% increase compared to the previous year. This dramatic rise can be attributed to economic improvements and policy changes that encouraged urban migration. Other notable increases include Andorra and Kosovo, with growths of 2.17% and 1.59% respectively, reflecting improved economic conditions and urban development policies.
Conversely, significant decreases were noted in countries like Saudi Arabia and Jordan, where urban growth rates fell by 3.67% and 2.87% respectively. Such declines often result from economic slowdowns, changes in migration patterns, or adjustments in government policies impacting urban areas. These year-over-year changes highlight the fluid nature of urban population dynamics and the impact of both internal and external factors on urban growth.
Implications for Urban Planning and Policy
The diverse patterns of urban population growth in 2017 underscore the need for tailored urban planning and policy responses. Countries experiencing rapid urban growth, such as Somalia and Uganda with its 6.25% growth rate, must focus on developing infrastructure, housing, and services to accommodate expanding populations. Effective policy-making must prioritize sustainable development, economic opportunities, and environmental considerations to enhance urban living conditions.
For countries facing negative growth, like Albania and Ukraine with a rate of -0.32%, strategies should aim at revitalizing urban areas, attracting investment, and creating economic incentives to retain and attract populations. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for governments and urban planners to address the challenges and leverage opportunities presented by changing urban populations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Urban Population Annual Growth Rate in 2017
Which country had the highest urban population growth rate in 2017?
Somalia had the highest urban population growth rate in 2017, with a rate of 9.02%.
What was the lowest urban population growth rate recorded in 2017?
The lowest urban population growth rate in 2017 was in South Sudan, with a rate of -4%.
What was the average urban population growth rate across all countries in 2017?
The average urban population growth rate across all countries in 2017 was 1.74%.
Which countries were in the top 3 for urban population growth rate in 2017?
The top 3 countries for urban population growth rate in 2017 were Somalia with 9.02%, Cambodia with 8.9%, and Burundi with 8.59%.
What was the median urban population growth rate among countries in 2017?
The median urban population growth rate among countries in 2017 was 1.68%.
How many countries were included in the dataset for urban population growth rate in 2017?
The dataset for urban population growth rate in 2017 included 216 countries.
Insights by country
Eritrea
Eritrea's Urban Population Annual Growth Rate in 2017 was 0.584382543587525 %, ranking it #148 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is relatively low compared to many neighboring countries, highlighting a slower urbanization process in the region.
Key drivers include Eritrea's ongoing economic challenges and a significant portion of the population residing in rural areas, which limits urban migration. Additionally, government policies have historically focused on agricultural development rather than urban expansion.
Djibouti
In 2017, Djibouti had an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 1.88013395579821 %, ranking #94 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is indicative of urbanization trends in the region, as it is lower than many neighboring countries in the Horn of Africa. The increase is driven by factors such as Djibouti's strategic location as a trade hub and ongoing investments in infrastructure, which attract people to urban centers for better economic opportunities.
Finland
In 2017, Finland's Urban Population Annual Growth Rate was 0.708952212929987 %, ranking #144 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is lower than the global average, indicating a relatively stable urbanization trend compared to faster-growing regions. Contributing factors include Finland's high standard of living and effective urban planning policies, which promote sustainable development while managing population density.
Uganda
In 2017, Uganda achieved a remarkable Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 6.24870216914578 %, ranking #6 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting Uganda's rapid urbanization compared to many other nations. Key drivers include a youthful population, ongoing rural-to-urban migration, and economic opportunities in urban centers that attract individuals seeking better livelihoods.
Guam
In 2017, Guam ranked #196 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of -0.453424319188375 %. This decline contrasts sharply with many neighboring Pacific islands experiencing urban growth, highlighting Guam's unique demographic challenges. Factors contributing to this trend include a sluggish economy and outmigration, particularly among younger residents seeking opportunities elsewhere, which affects urban development and population stability.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia ranked #12 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 4.87600186096141 % in 2017. This growth rate is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting rapid urbanization trends in the country.
The key drivers behind this statistic include Ethiopia's ongoing economic development and rural-to-urban migration, as people move to cities for better job opportunities and services. Additionally, government policies aimed at improving urban infrastructure have further accelerated this urban growth.
Lesotho
In 2017, Lesotho achieved a remarkable Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 4.07859314428619 %, ranking #23 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting urbanization trends seen in many developing nations. Key drivers include ongoing rural-to-urban migration as individuals seek better economic opportunities and improved living conditions in urban centers.
Pakistan
In 2017, Pakistan ranked #78 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 2.17293585171018 %. This growth rate is notable, especially when compared to regional neighbors, reflecting significant urbanization trends across South Asia.
The key drivers behind this urban growth include rapid population increase, economic migration towards cities in search of better opportunities, and ongoing infrastructure development in urban areas. Additionally, urban areas in Pakistan are becoming increasingly attractive due to improved access to education and healthcare services.
Liberia
In 2017, Liberia ranked #53 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 2.96594628026702 %. This growth rate is notable compared to many neighboring countries in West Africa, where urbanization rates can vary significantly. Key drivers of this urban growth include ongoing economic recovery efforts post-civil conflict, which have led to increased migration to urban areas for better employment opportunities and services.
Madagascar
In 2017, Madagascar ranked #40 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 3.43969906075462 %. This rate is notably higher than the global average, reflecting significant urbanization trends in the country. Rapid population growth, coupled with rural-to-urban migration driven by economic opportunities in cities, has fueled this increase. Additionally, Madagascar's unique geographic challenges and limited infrastructure in rural areas push residents towards urban centers for better access to resources and services.
Data Source
Urban population growth (annual %) - World Bank Open Data
The World Bank Open Data provides comprehensive datasets on various aspects of global development, including urban population growth rates. The "Urban population growth (annual %)" indicator offers country-level statistics reflecting the annual percentage change in the urban population, based on the total population.
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