World's Most Populous Nations (2024 Estimates): Top 10 Ranking

Based on the latest UN World Population Prospects (2024 revision) and national census projections:

1. India – ~1.44 billion (surpassed China in 2023)
2. China – ~1.42 billion (peak reached, now declining)
3. United States – ~341 million
4. Indonesia – ~279 million
5. Pakistan – ~245 million
6. Nigeria – ~229 million
7. Brazil – ~217 million
8. Bangladesh – ~174 million
9. Russia – ~144 million
10. Mexico – ~130 million

Key Trends

• India vs. China: India's younger demographic (median age 28 vs. 39) drives continued growth; China faces rapid aging and sub-replacement fertility (1.1–1.2 TFR).
• Africa's Rise: Nigeria will likely surpass the US by 2050 (~375M); DRC, Ethiopia, Tanzania entering top 10.
• Declining: Russia, Japan, Europe – shrinking without immigration.
• Global Total: ~8.1 billion (2024); projected peak ~10.4B (2080s).

Data Sources

UN DESA, World Bank, national statistical offices. Figures are mid-year estimates; real-time counters (Worldometer, Census Bureau clocks) differ slightly.