The 2020 World Population Data Sheet indicates that world population is projected to increase from 7.8 billion in 2020 to 9.9 billion by 2050. This level represents an increase of more than 25% from 2020. The current global total fertility rate is 2.3 births per woman, although 91 countries and territories have registered fertility rates below replacement level (2.1 births per woman).

The World Population Data Sheet is released annually by the Population Reference Bureau (PRB). The 2020 edition tracks 24 population indicators for more than 200 countries and territories. 

The 2020 World Population Data Sheet reveals that many countries in sub-Saharan Africa and some in Asia have experienced rapid population growth and high fertility rates. As a result, sub-Saharan Africa has the youngest population of any region, with 43% of its population under age 15. The population of 25 countries is expected to at least double between 2020 and 2050. Among these 25 countries, Angola and Benin are projected to grow by at least 150% of their current population. Niger’s population is expected to increase by almost 175%.

By contrast, the trend is towards a graying population in Europe. Older adults (ages 65 and older) account for 9% of global population, but in Western Europe and Southern Europe, 21% of the population falls into this category. 

In 2020, life expectancy at birth for women is highest in Hong Kong (88) and lowest in Central African Republic (55). Life expectancy at birth for men is highest in Australia (83) and lowest in Central African Republic and Lesotho (51). 

The 2020 World Data Population Sheet also includes data on urbanization of global population. South America has the highest percent of the population (84%) living in urban areas. In 12 countries and territories, at least 50% of the population lives in cities with a population of 1 million or more, including Republic of the Congo (63%), Australia (62%) and Israel (61%). [PRB Media Release][SDG Knowledge Hub stories about the World Data Population Sheet in 2019, 2018, and 2017]