Urban Population Annual Growth Rate 2019
Urban population annual growth rate measures the year-over-year percentage increase in a country's urban population.
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Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Burundi | 9.341 % | |
2 | Rwanda | 8.705 % | |
3 | British Virgin Islands | 6.355 % | |
4 | Solomon Islands | 6.311 % | |
5 | Cambodia | 6.295 % | |
6 | Uganda | 5.971 % | |
7 | Saint Lucia | 5.969 % | |
8 | Mali | 5.345 % | |
9 | Somalia | 5.023 % | |
10 | Chad | 4.984 % | |
11 | Yemen | 4.981 % | |
12 | Ethiopia | 4.903 % | |
13 | Senegal | 4.83 % | |
14 | Kiribati | 4.716 % | |
15 | Mauritania | 4.625 % | |
16 | Angola | 4.581 % | |
17 | Tanzania | 4.549 % | |
18 | Niger | 4.372 % | |
19 | South Sudan | 4.345 % | |
20 | Malta | 4.272 % | |
21 | Mozambique | 4.227 % | |
22 | Benin | 4.219 % | |
23 | Turks and Caicos Islands | 4.075 % | |
24 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 4.06 % | |
25 | Namibia | 4.012 % | |
26 | Maldives | 3.941 % | |
27 | Lesotho | 3.892 % | |
28 | Madagascar | 3.885 % | |
29 | Zambia | 3.835 % | |
30 | Papua New Guinea | 3.815 % | |
31 | Zimbabwe | 3.729 % | |
32 | Equatorial Guinea | 3.669 % | |
33 | Nigeria | 3.57 % | |
34 | Syrian Arab Republic | 3.566 % | |
35 | Afghanistan | 3.561 % | |
36 | Côte d'Ivoire | 3.558 % | |
37 | Sierra Leone | 3.501 % | |
38 | Laos | 3.501 % | |
39 | Malawi | 3.373 % | |
40 | Cameroon | 3.367 % | |
41 | Guinea-Bissau | 3.325 % | |
42 | Guinea | 3.319 % | |
43 | Gambia | 3.299 % | |
44 | Sudan | 3.199 % | |
45 | Togo | 3.194 % | |
46 | Paraguay | 2.999 % | |
47 | Liberia | 2.991 % | |
48 | Gabon | 2.974 % | |
49 | Vietnam | 2.96 % | |
50 | Comoros | 2.942 % | |
51 | Ghana | 2.92 % | |
52 | Kazakhstan | 2.891 % | |
53 | State of Palestine | 2.837 % | |
54 | Kuwait | 2.711 % | |
55 | Honduras | 2.691 % | |
56 | Pakistan | 2.67 % | |
57 | Burkina Faso | 2.666 % | |
58 | Algeria | 2.64 % | |
59 | Thailand | 2.634 % | |
60 | Luxembourg | 2.595 % | |
61 | Switzerland | 2.571 % | |
62 | Central African Republic | 2.543 % | |
63 | Congo | 2.523 % | |
64 | Haiti | 2.517 % | |
65 | Azerbaijan | 2.489 % | |
66 | Iceland | 2.332 % | |
67 | Jordan | 2.328 % | |
68 | China | 2.303 % | |
69 | Qatar | 2.264 % | |
70 | Iraq | 2.263 % | |
71 | Bhutan | 2.234 % | |
72 | Turkmenistan | 2.221 % | |
73 | Kosovo | 2.22 % | |
74 | Peru | 2.219 % | |
75 | Philippines | 2.164 % | |
76 | Guatemala | 2.154 % | |
77 | Eswatini | 2.122 % | |
78 | Indonesia | 2.095 % | |
79 | Cayman Islands | 2.08 % | |
80 | Kyrgyzstan | 2.069 % | |
81 | Guyana | 2.041 % | |
82 | Netherlands | 2.032 % | |
83 | Colombia | 2.018 % | |
84 | Turkey | 1.991 % | |
85 | India | 1.978 % | |
86 | China, Macao SAR | 1.969 % | |
87 | Tajikistan | 1.967 % | |
88 | Malaysia | 1.964 % | |
89 | Ireland | 1.888 % | |
90 | Israel | 1.876 % | |
91 | Djibouti | 1.874 % | |
92 | Bolivia | 1.867 % | |
93 | Cabo Verde | 1.864 % | |
94 | Bangladesh | 1.842 % | |
95 | Uzbekistan | 1.831 % | |
96 | Gibraltar | 1.82 % | |
97 | Egypt | 1.81 % | |
98 | Chile | 1.787 % | |
99 | Mongolia | 1.777 % | |
100 | Andorra | 1.766 % | |
101 | Ecuador | 1.72 % | |
102 | South Africa | 1.706 % | |
103 | Sao Tome and Principe | 1.705 % | |
104 | Canada | 1.69 % | |
105 | Sint Maarten (Dutch part) | 1.681 % | |
106 | Botswana | 1.678 % | |
107 | Panama | 1.656 % | |
108 | Iran | 1.612 % | |
109 | Nicaragua | 1.592 % | |
110 | Australia | 1.564 % | |
111 | Faroe Islands | 1.515 % | |
112 | Seychelles | 1.496 % | |
113 | Sri Lanka | 1.49 % | |
114 | Libya | 1.482 % | |
115 | Timor-Leste | 1.481 % | |
116 | Costa Rica | 1.475 % | |
117 | Morocco | 1.473 % | |
118 | Nepal | 1.452 % | |
119 | New Zealand | 1.416 % | |
120 | Mexico | 1.371 % | |
121 | Tunisia | 1.323 % | |
122 | Kenya | 1.31 % | |
123 | Sweden | 1.282 % | |
124 | United Arab Emirates | 1.254 % | |
125 | Liechtenstein | 1.179 % | |
126 | Slovenia | 1.168 % | |
127 | Eritrea | 1.163 % | |
128 | Cyprus | 1.16 % | |
129 | Singapore | 1.144 % | |
130 | Brunei Darussalam | 1.073 % | |
131 | Suriname | 0.989 % | |
132 | Myanmar | 0.984 % | |
133 | Norway | 0.977 % | |
134 | Nauru | 0.954 % | |
135 | El Salvador | 0.952 % | |
136 | Brazil | 0.927 % | |
137 | Belize | 0.866 % | |
138 | North Korea | 0.846 % | |
139 | Jamaica | 0.818 % | |
140 | Spain | 0.813 % | |
141 | Argentina | 0.808 % | |
142 | Estonia | 0.801 % | |
143 | United Kingdom | 0.784 % | |
144 | Belgium | 0.779 % | |
145 | Austria | 0.757 % | |
146 | China, Hong Kong SAR | 0.739 % | |
147 | Dominican Republic | 0.737 % | |
148 | Greenland | 0.701 % | |
149 | Finland | 0.663 % | |
150 | Oman | 0.628 % | |
151 | Fiji | 0.596 % | |
152 | Denmark | 0.476 % | |
153 | Bermuda | 0.431 % | |
154 | Germany | 0.426 % | |
155 | Grenada | 0.423 % | |
156 | Puerto Rico | 0.421 % | |
157 | San Marino | 0.408 % | |
158 | Micronesia (Fed. States of) | 0.402 % | |
159 | Georgia | 0.387 % | |
160 | Trinidad and Tobago | 0.357 % | |
161 | France | 0.355 % | |
162 | Bahamas | 0.328 % | |
163 | United States | 0.328 % | |
164 | Czech Republic | 0.308 % | |
165 | South Korea | 0.234 % | |
166 | Isle of Man | 0.208 % | |
167 | Barbados | 0.2 % | |
168 | Antigua and Barbuda | 0.2 % | |
169 | Montenegro | 0.178 % | |
170 | New Caledonia | 0.17 % | |
171 | Russia | 0.143 % | |
172 | Uruguay | 0.135 % | |
173 | Dominica | 0.132 % | |
174 | Belarus | 0.111 % | |
175 | North Macedonia | 0.1 % | |
176 | Greece | 0.074 % | |
177 | Saint Kitts and Nevis | 0.047 % | |
178 | Armenia | 0.019 % | |
179 | Portugal | 0.01 % | |
180 | Japan | -0.055 % | |
181 | Slovakia | -0.092 % | |
182 | Monaco | -0.118 % | |
183 | Aruba | -0.128 % | |
184 | Lithuania | -0.14 % | |
185 | Cuba | -0.142 % | |
186 | Hungary | -0.146 % | |
187 | Poland | -0.176 % | |
188 | Serbia | -0.199 % | |
189 | Italy | -0.212 % | |
190 | Mauritius | -0.213 % | |
191 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | -0.23 % | |
192 | Saudi Arabia | -0.238 % | |
193 | French Polynesia | -0.29 % | |
194 | United States Virgin Islands | -0.291 % | |
195 | Palau | -0.431 % | |
196 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | -0.453 % | |
197 | Tuvalu | -0.477 % | |
198 | Republic of Moldova | -0.499 % | |
199 | Ukraine | -0.504 % | |
200 | Guam | -0.537 % | |
201 | Samoa | -0.614 % | |
202 | Croatia | -0.618 % | |
203 | Latvia | -0.621 % | |
204 | Albania | -0.859 % | |
205 | Vanuatu | -0.895 % | |
206 | Romania | -1.001 % | |
207 | Curaçao | -1.184 % | |
208 | Bulgaria | -1.254 % | |
209 | Bahrain | -1.295 % | |
210 | Tonga | -1.56 % | |
211 | Northern Mariana Islands | -1.872 % | |
212 | American Samoa | -1.891 % | |
213 | Marshall Islands | -2.402 % | |
214 | Venezuela | -2.919 % | |
215 | Lebanon | -2.966 % | |
216 | Saint Martin (French part) | -4.967 % |
- #1
Burundi
- #2
Rwanda
- #3
British Virgin Islands
- #4
Solomon Islands
- #5
Cambodia
- #6
Uganda
- #7
Saint Lucia
- #8
Mali
- #9
Somalia
- #10
Chad
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #216
Saint Martin (French part)
- #215
Lebanon
- #214
Venezuela
- #213
Marshall Islands
- #212
American Samoa
- #211
Northern Mariana Islands
- #210
Tonga
- #209
Bahrain
- #208
Bulgaria
- #207
Curaçao
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
In 2019, Burundi led the world with the highest Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 9.34%, while the global range extended from -0.54% to 9.34%. During the same year, the global average growth rate was 1.95%, offering a benchmark for understanding urbanization trends worldwide.
Factors Driving High Urban Population Growth Rates
The rapid urban population growth in countries like Burundi and Rwanda, which recorded rates of 9.34% and 8.70% respectively, can often be attributed to a combination of factors including economic development, demographic changes, and rural-to-urban migration. In Burundi, population pressures and a youthful demographic profile contribute significantly to urban expansion. Similarly, Rwanda's government policies encouraging urban development, alongside its economic recovery, have bolstered urban growth.
In the case of the Solomon Islands and Cambodia, with growth rates at 6.31% and 6.29%, the expansion of urban areas is often driven by infrastructure development and investment in urban centers to sustain economic growth. Additionally, these countries experience substantial rural-to-urban migration as people seek better employment opportunities and living standards in cities.
Understanding Negative Urban Growth Rates
On the other end of the spectrum, countries such as Guam and Ukraine faced negative urban growth rates of -0.54% and -0.50%, respectively. These declines can be linked to economic stagnation, emigration, and declining birth rates. For instance, Ukraine has experienced significant emigration due to economic difficulties and political instability, which contributes to the reduction in urban population.
In regions like the United States Virgin Islands and French Polynesia, negative growth rates of -0.29% and -0.29% can be attributed to limited economic opportunities prompting out-migration, as well as the challenges of sustaining large urban populations on small islands.
Impact of Year-Over-Year Changes
The year-over-year changes in urban growth rates reveal significant shifts. South Sudan experienced the most substantial increase, with a rise of 4.26% (5184.1%), attributed to post-conflict recovery and urban development initiatives. Meanwhile, the Syrian Arab Republic saw a 2.39% increase (203.0%), reflecting urban rebuilding efforts amid ongoing conflict resolution.
Conversely, Thailand witnessed the largest decrease in urban growth rate, dropping by 7.99% (-75.2%). This decline can be linked to a slowing economy and reduced rural-to-urban migration. Similarly, Somalia and Cambodia experienced decreases of -3.72% and -2.19%, respectively, due to political instability and economic challenges impacting urban development.
The Significance of Urban Growth Patterns
Understanding the Urban Population Annual Growth Rate provides valuable insights into global urbanization trends and their implications. Countries with high growth rates often face challenges such as ensuring sustainable urban planning, providing adequate infrastructure, and maintaining social services. Conversely, countries with negative growth rates might need to address issues related to economic stagnation and emigration.
For policymakers, these statistics highlight the need for targeted strategies to manage urban growth effectively. In rapidly urbanizing nations like Uganda and Mali, with growth rates of 5.97% and 5.35%, investments in infrastructure and services are crucial to support burgeoning urban populations. Meanwhile, countries experiencing negative growth, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina and Saudi Arabia, need to focus on economic revitalization and retaining their urban populations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Urban Population Annual Growth Rate in 2019
Which country had the highest urban population annual growth rate in 2019?
Burundi had the highest urban population annual growth rate in 2019, with an increase of 9.34%.
Which country had the lowest urban population annual growth rate in 2019?
Saint Martin (French part) had the lowest urban population annual growth rate in 2019, with a decrease of 4.97%.
What was the average urban population annual growth rate across all countries in 2019?
The average urban population annual growth rate across all countries in 2019 was 1.68%.
What was the median urban population annual growth rate in 2019?
The median urban population annual growth rate in 2019 was 1.6%.
Which countries were in the top 10 for urban population annual growth rate in 2019?
The top 10 countries for urban population annual growth rate in 2019 were Burundi, Rwanda, British Virgin Islands, Solomon Islands, Cambodia, Uganda, Saint Lucia, Mali, Somalia, and Chad.
What was the range of urban population annual growth rates in 2019?
The range of urban population annual growth rates in 2019 spanned from -4.97% in Saint Martin (French part) to 9.34% in Burundi.
Insights by country
Barbados
In 2019, Barbados recorded an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 0.199946627442374 %, ranking #167 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is relatively low compared to many Caribbean nations, indicating a more stable urbanization trend. Contributing factors include the country's mature urban infrastructure and a relatively small population, which limits rapid urban expansion.
Niger
Niger ranked #18 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 4.372270386451 % in 2019. This growth rate is significantly higher than many of its neighbors, reflecting a trend seen in several West African nations experiencing rapid urbanization. The primary drivers of this growth include a youthful population and increasing migration to urban areas in search of economic opportunities and better living conditions.
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Congo, Democratic Republic of the achieved a global rank of #24 with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 4.05989799278496 % in 2019. This rate is notably higher than the global average, reflecting rapid urbanization trends in the region. Key drivers include significant rural-to-urban migration fueled by economic opportunities in cities and ongoing infrastructure development that enhances urban living conditions.
Liechtenstein
In 2019, Liechtenstein ranked #125 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 1.17858507112061 %. This growth rate is relatively modest compared to neighboring countries like Switzerland, which has a higher urbanization rate. Factors contributing to Liechtenstein's urban growth include its stable economy, which attracts residents, and its strategic location between Switzerland and Austria, enhancing its appeal as a residential area.
Bangladesh
In 2019, Bangladesh had an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 1.84176302855583 %, ranking #94 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is slightly below the global average, indicating a moderate pace of urbanization compared to rapidly urbanizing nations. Key drivers of this growth include significant rural-to-urban migration fueled by economic opportunities in cities and ongoing infrastructural development aimed at supporting urban populations.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua's Urban Population Annual Growth Rate in 2019 was 1.5919991986924 %, ranking #109 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is below the global average, reflecting challenges in urban infrastructure and economic development compared to regional neighbors like Costa Rica, which has a more robust urbanization process. Key drivers of this growth include rural-to-urban migration as people seek better employment opportunities, alongside ongoing urbanization policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
In 2019, Saint Kitts and Nevis had an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 0.0474721110268122 %, ranking #177 out of 216 countries. This growth rate is notably lower than many Caribbean neighbors, reflecting the region's diverse urbanization trends. Contributing factors include the country's small land area and population, which limit urban expansion, alongside economic reliance on tourism that influences migration patterns.
Brazil
In 2019, Brazil ranked #136 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 0.926629993198714%. This growth rate is lower than the regional average for South America, indicating a slower urbanization pace compared to some neighboring countries like Colombia, which has seen more rapid urban expansion. Key drivers of Brazil's urban growth include ongoing migration from rural areas to cities in search of better economic opportunities, as well as significant urban infrastructure development in major metropolitan areas.
Comoros
In 2019, Comoros achieved a global rank of #50 with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of 2.94182509163203%. This growth rate is notable compared to many of its regional neighbors, reflecting a trend towards urbanization in developing nations. Key drivers for this increase include a youthful population and the migration of individuals seeking better economic opportunities in urban areas, as well as ongoing improvements in infrastructure and services in cities.
United States Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands ranked #194 globally with an Urban Population Annual Growth Rate of -0.291410494186058 % in 2019. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating a decline in urban population growth compared to many other regions.
Factors contributing to this decline include economic challenges and the impact of natural disasters, which have affected migration patterns and urban development. Additionally, the territory's limited land area restricts the potential for urban expansion, further influencing its demographic trends.
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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