Pakistan’s population — the complete 2026 picture. How many people, how fast it’s growing, where they live, and what it means for the country’s future. Every key figure from the 2023 census and 2026 estimates, in one place.
Quick answer: Pakistan’s population is ~259 million (25.9 crore) in 2026 — 5th largest in the world. The 2023 census counted 241.49 million growing at 2.55% yearly. Median age: just 21.8 years.
In this guide
The Total
2026 estimate: 259.3 million (World Population Review). 2023 census: 241.49 million (four provinces + ICT; 247.54 million including GB and AJK). Pakistan is the world’s 5th most populous nation — 3.24% of humanity. In crores: ~25.9 crore today. See our crore breakdown.
Growth
2.55% per year (2017–2023) — South Asia’s highest. Net gain: ~11,300 people daily (18,989 births − 4,556 deaths − emigration). Punjab adds the most people; Balochistan grows fastest (3.20%).
Age Structure
Median age 21.8 (global: 31). 50.62% male, 49.38% female. Life expectancy: 68.1 years. The youth bulge — over half the country under 22 — is Pakistan’s defining demographic fact.
What It Means
A young, fast-growing population needs classrooms, jobs, housing and water at a staggering scale. Managed well, it’s a demographic dividend; managed poorly, a strain. Our population pillar guide covers every dimension.
Is Pakistan the 5th most populous country?
Yes — after India, China, the United States and Indonesia, with ~259 million people in 2026.
How many people are added to Pakistan each year?
Roughly 4–5 million net per year at current growth rates — equivalent to adding a new Lahore every three years.
