United Kingdom
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Current Population (Live)
Annual Growth Rate: +0.53%
With a population of roughly 69.3 million, United Kingdom ranks among the world’s 20 most populous countries. The country extends across 244,376 km², translating to a density of 284 people per km². Its capital is London, and English is the official language, while the British pound serves as the national currency.
Population
69,281,437
Area
244,376 km²
Density
284/km²
World Rank
#20
Population Trend (1960-2050)
Historical data from 1960 to present with projections to 2050.
Annual Growth Rate by Period
Population growth has effectively stalled at 0% annually, suggesting the country is approaching or has reached a demographic plateau. The gap between the birth rate (10 per thousand) and death rate (9.5 per thousand) has narrowed considerably. The population skews older, with 19.5% aged 65 or above and 17.2% under 15, signaling rising dependency ratios.
General Information
- Capital
- London
- Region
- Europe
- Subregion
- Northern Europe
- Continent
- Europe
- Languages
- English
- Currencies
- British pound (£)
- Calling Code
- +44
- Top-Level Domain
- .uk
- Landlocked
- No
- UN Member
- Yes
- Timezones
- UTC-08:00, UTC-05:00, UTC-04:00, UTC-03:00, UTC-02:00, UTC, UTC+01:00, UTC+02:00, UTC+06:00
Population Details
- Total Population
- 69,281,437
- Land Area
- 244,376 km²
- Population Density
- 284 per km²
- Annual Growth Rate
- +0.53%
- Annual Growth
- +367,192 people
- Daily Growth
- +1,006 people
- World Population Share
- 0.86%
- Coordinates
- 54.00°, -2.00°
Global Population Share
Demographics & Economy
With a GDP per capita of roughly $53.2k, United Kingdom sits comfortably in the high-income bracket by World Bank standards. Unemployment sits at 4.8%, below the global average of 5.8%. The Gini index of 32.4 indicates a moderate level of income inequality.
Life Expectancy
81.2 years
GDP per Capita
$53,246
Birth Rate
10.0 per 1,000
Death Rate
9.5 per 1,000
Urban Population
83.2%
Fertility Rate
1.56 births/woman
Infant Mortality
4.0 per 1,000
Unemployment
4.8%
Internet Users
96.3%
Under 15
17.2%
Over 65
19.5%
Health Spending
11.1% GDP
Gini Index
32.4
Age Distribution
0-14 years
11.9M
15-64 years
43.9M
65+ years
13.5M
Urbanization
Urbanization is well advanced, with roughly 83.2% of the population residing in towns and cities, above the global mean of 56%. London, the capital, anchors a broader network of metropolitan centers that drive economic activity. Net inward migration of 389911.0 per thousand is contributing to urban growth and reshaping community demographics.
57.7M
83.2%
11.6M
16.8%
Health & Education Indicators
Life expectancy reaches 81.2 years, ranking among the highest globally and reflecting robust healthcare systems and living standards. Infant mortality is remarkably low at 4.0 per thousand live births, indicative of high-quality maternal and neonatal care. Health expenditure accounts for about 11.1% of GDP, shaping the reach and quality of medical services available to the population.
Life Expectancy
World avg: 72.8
Fertility Rate
World avg: 2.3
Infant Mortality
World avg: 27.5
Internet Users
World avg: 63
Major Cities in United Kingdom
United Kingdom has 105 cities with a population over 100,000. Click on markers to see details.
Population Projections (2026-2050)
Near-zero growth suggests that United Kingdom is entering a period of demographic stability—or, depending on policy responses, the early stages of decline. Below-replacement fertility of 1.6 births per woman means natural growth alone cannot sustain the current population level indefinitely. As a United Nations member state, United Kingdom participates in global discussions on sustainable development that will shape its demographic future.
| Year | Projected Population |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 69,281,437 |
| 2030 | 70,817,267 |
| 2035 | 72,900,878 |
| 2040 | 75,160,942 |
| 2045 | 77,593,133 |
| 2050 | 80,194,599 |
Population History (1960-2026)
Year-by-year population data, growth rates, and trends for United Kingdom.
Largest Cities in United Kingdom
Explore the biggest cities and urban centers in United Kingdom by population.
Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of United Kingdom?
The population of United Kingdom is approximately 69.3 million as of 2026, making it #20 in the world by population.
What is the capital of United Kingdom?
The capital of United Kingdom is London.
What languages are spoken in United Kingdom?
The main languages spoken in United Kingdom are English.
How big is United Kingdom?
United Kingdom covers an area of 244,376 km² with a population density of 284 people per km².
Is United Kingdom growing or shrinking?
United Kingdom is growing at a rate of 0.53% per year, adding approximately 367,192 people annually.
What is the life expectancy in United Kingdom?
The average life expectancy in United Kingdom is 81.2 years.
What is the GDP per capita of United Kingdom?
The GDP per capita of United Kingdom is $53,246.