If you’re curious about where most people actually live, you’re definitely not alone. Populations keep shifting and growing, so checking out which countries have the most people is always interesting. Knowing which countries top the list gives you a better sense of how culture, economy, and global influence play out.
Every country is unique, but some places have way more people packed inside their borders than others. Let’s dig into what that means and why it’s worth thinking about.
10. Mexico (130,417,144)
It’s easy to forget just how many people call Mexico home—over 130 million, which puts it high on the global list.
Big cities like Mexico City are always buzzing, with millions moving through their routines. Even smaller towns and villages add to the country’s lively, diverse feel.
Mexico’s population is pretty young. Walk around, and you’ll spot plenty of kids and teens everywhere.
Family and community gatherings shape daily life, whether you’re in a city or out in the countryside.
9. Russia (146,028,325)
Russia is massive—everyone knows that. But population-wise, it sits lower than you might guess.
About 146 million people live there, but they’re mostly clustered in the west, near Europe. Siberia and the far east? Tons of space, not many neighbors.
Moscow, the capital, packs in millions, while other cities are much smaller. Huge stretches of land stay wild and open.
Russia’s population has started to shrink a bit in recent years, mostly because of low birth rates and other stuff. Still, it’s one of the world’s most populous countries, with people living in all kinds of climates and cultures.
8. Bangladesh (169,828,911)
If you picture crowded places, Bangladesh jumps right to mind. Nearly 170 million people squeeze into a relatively small area, putting it at number eight globally.
The capital, Dhaka, practically buzzes with energy and jam-packed streets. Cities like Chittagong are just as lively, with markets everywhere you look.
Honestly, it’s the density that surprises most visitors. Bangladesh ranks among the highest in population density worldwide, especially if you ignore the tiny city-states.
Travel anywhere in Bangladesh and you’ll rarely feel alone. People fill just about every street and village. Even with the crowds, you’ll find a unique culture and hospitality that makes the place feel special.
7. Brazil (212,583,750)
Brazil leads South America in population, with over 212 million people. Most folks settle along the Atlantic coast in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro—both always full of life.
Head inland and it’s a different story. The Amazon region is massive but pretty empty by comparison. Still, Brazil’s sheer numbers keep it in the global top ten year after year.
Your day in Brazil could mean weaving through busy city streets or relaxing in quieter rural spots. The population skews young, with lots of families and kids. No wonder Brazil’s culture, music, and sports have fans everywhere.
6. Nigeria (223,800,000)
Nigeria sits in West Africa and claims the continent’s biggest population. Over 223 million people live there, and the number keeps climbing.
The growth has been fast, especially in recent decades. Walk through Lagos and you’ll see crowds, lively markets, and endless movement.
Most people in Nigeria are young, which gives the country a different kind of energy—kids and teens are everywhere, shaping the mood.
With so many people, you get a wild mix of languages, cultures, and traditions. Nigeria stands out for its variety. No matter where you go—north, south, or anywhere in between—there’s always something new to check out or learn.
5. Pakistan (241,499,431)
Pakistan lands in fifth place for population, with over 241 million people. That’s about 2.9% of everyone on the planet. It’s a lot to fit inside one country.
Most Pakistanis are under 40, and cities keep growing as people move in for jobs and school.
Pakistan sits in South Asia, bordered by India, China, Afghanistan, and Iran. You get everything from mountains to deserts to coastline. The population keeps rising and cities keep spreading out.
4. Indonesia (282,477,584)
Look at a world map and you’ll spot Indonesia stretching across thousands of islands in Southeast Asia. With over 282 million people, it’s the fourth most populous country on Earth.
More than 300 ethnic and language groups live here. The Javanese make up about 40% of the total.
Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim-majority country. Urban life keeps expanding, but plenty of people still live in rural areas.
The population is young, so schools and cities rarely feel quiet. Each year, more people call Indonesia home.
3. United States (340,110,988)
The United States—just about everyone’s heard of its big cities, varied landscapes, and a population made up of people from everywhere. By 2025, the U.S. will have around 340 million people, making it the third largest by population.
Diversity is everywhere in the U.S., thanks to high immigration and families from all kinds of backgrounds. Every state has its own flavor because of this mix.
The population keeps growing, though not as fast as in some places. There are more older folks now, which changes things like healthcare and jobs. Even so, you’ll find cities buzzing with energy and regions where life moves at a slower pace.
People live everywhere—from massive cities to tiny towns and open countryside. The U.S. is a patchwork of crowded places and peaceful spots.
2. China (1,408,280,000)
China always comes to mind when you think about countries with huge populations. About 1.4 billion people live in its cities and rural areas. That’s just about five million fewer than India.
The country is full of giant cities like Beijing and Shanghai, plus smaller towns and villages. Most people stick to the eastern regions, close to the sea.
China’s population grew fast over the last century. Even with so many people, China built up strong cities and infrastructure.
Depending on where you go, you’ll run into different cultures, languages, and traditions. It definitely keeps things interesting if you’re traveling around.
1. India (1,413,324,000)
You can’t talk about population without mentioning India. With about 1.41 billion people, it tops the charts as the world’s most populous country. That’s a staggering chunk of everyone on Earth.
You’ll find crowded cities like Mumbai and Delhi, but plenty of villages and smaller towns, too. The country’s sheer size brings together a wild mix of cultures, languages, and traditions—sometimes it feels like every corner has its own flavor.
India’s population keeps growing, though the pace is starting to slow a bit. Most folks are pretty young, which really shapes the job market and the whole vibe of the workforce.
Everywhere you turn, you notice the effects of so many people sharing space—busy markets, jam-packed trains, and festivals that seem to spill into the streets. India’s size definitely gives it a loud voice in business, tech, and world culture. It’s hard not to feel the energy.
Leave a Reply