Brazil population in 2025 reflects a nation at a turning point. With over 218 million people, it ranks as the seventh-largest population in the world.
Over 91 percent of Brazilians now live in cities, showing a clear trend toward urban living. This shift brings both opportunities and challenges, with cities adapting to rapid growth and increasing demands on infrastructure.
The aging population is another key aspect of Brazil population in 2025. The median age has climbed to 34.8 years, influenced by lower fertility rates and longer life expectancy.
With fewer births per woman, currently at 1.60, Brazil faces a slower population growth rate and new challenges in addressing the needs of its evolving demographic landscape.
Key Facts
- Brazil’s Population in 2025: Estimated at 218,803,058, making it the 7th most populous country in the world.
- Urbanization: Over 91% of Brazilians now live in urban areas, with major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
- Aging Population: The median age has risen to 34.8 years, and life expectancy has reached 76.02 years, while fertility rates have dropped to 1.60 children per woman.
How Many People Live in Brazil in 2025?
As of 2025, Brazil’s population is estimated at 218,803,058, according to the latest data from the United Nations and World Bank.
The figure marks a slight growth from 2024, reflecting a yearly increase of 0.54%. Brazil remains the seventh-most populous country globally, contributing approximately 2.59% to the world’s total population.
Population Growth Over Time
The table below highlights Brazil’s population growth since 1950.
| Year | Population | Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | 53,955,359 | – |
| 2000 | 175,873,720 | 1.38 |
| 2010 | 196,353,492 | 0.94 |
| 2020 | 213,196,304 | 0.67 |
| 2025 | 218,803,058 | 0.54 |
Urban vs. Rural Distribution
- Urban Population: 91.4% (approximately 200 million people live in cities).
- Rural Population: 8.6% (approximately 18 million reside in rural areas).
Population Density
With a land area of 8,358,140 km², Brazil’s population density stands at 26 people per km². This figure highlights significant regional disparities:
- High Density: Southeast regions, including São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
- Low Density: Northern areas, particularly in the Amazon.
Comparison to Other Countries
In 2025, Brazil’s population exceeds countries like Russia (143 million) and Mexico (130 million), while trailing global leaders such as China and India.
| Rank | Country | Population 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 1,424,381,924 |
| 2 | India | 1,419,018,640 |
| 7 | Brazil | 218,803,058 |
Key Trends Driving Growth
- Slowing Growth Rates: Brazil’s population growth peaked at over 3% annually in the 1960s but has since declined due to:
- Falling fertility rates (currently at 1.60 children per woman).
- Urbanization and economic factors.
- Aging Population: The median age has risen to 34.8 years, reflecting longer life expectancy and a shrinking youth population.
Urban Areas Are Dominating
As of 2025, 91.4% of Brazil’s population lives in urban areas, which equates to nearly 200 million people.
This trend has steadily increased from 46% in 1960, driven by industrialization and migration from rural regions.
Largest Urban Areas
Brazil’s urban population is concentrated in its major cities, with the largest centers hosting millions.
| City | Population (2025) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| São Paulo | 12,400,232 | Economic and cultural hub, largest city, biggest metro area. |
| Rio de Janeiro | 6,747,815 | Known for tourism and its port economy. |
| Belo Horizonte | 2,721,564 | Major industrial and mining center. |
| Salvador | 2,711,840 | Historical capital with a strong cultural identity. |
| Fortaleza | 2,400,000 | Northeast region’s key economic hub. |
Urbanization Trends Since 1950
| Year | Urban Population (%) | Rural Population (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | 36% | 64% |
| 1980 | 66% | 34% |
| 2000 | 81% | 19% |
| 2025 | 91.4% | 8.6% |
Factors Driving Urban Dominance
1. Employment
Urban areas are centers for industrial and service-based jobs. São Paulo alone contributes 11% of the nation’s GDP.
2. Population Concentration
Southeast Brazil, home to São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, houses nearly half of the total population, while northern regions remain sparsely populated.
3. Urban Infrastructure
Cities provide greater access to healthcare, education, and transportation, drawing people from rural regions.
4. Migration
Since the mid-20th century, rural-to-urban migration has reshaped Brazil’s demographic map, driven by declining agricultural employment.
Challenges of Urban Dominance
While cities dominate Brazil’s population, they also face:
- Housing shortages and the expansion of informal settlements.
- Overloaded infrastructure, including public transport and healthcare systems.
- Rising environmental concerns linked to urban sprawl.
Aging Stats in Brazil
In 2025, Brazil’s population is older than ever, with a median age of 34.8 years.
That is a significant shift compared to the 1960s when the median age was under 17 years.
Rising Life Expectancy
Life expectancy in Brazil has reached 76.02 years, a notable improvement compared to 55 years in 1960.
Better healthcare, sanitation, and living standards have driven this progress, but an aging population brings increased demand for elderly care and social services.
Declining Fertility Rates
Fertility rates in Brazil dropped from 6.05 children per woman in 1960 to 1.60 in 2025, below the replacement level of 2.1.
Fewer births mean slower population growth and an eventual decline in the working-age population.
Economic and Social Impacts of Changing Population
The changing demographic landscape, particularly the declining birth rate and increasing number of elderly citizens, has far-reaching effects on the economy, healthcare system, labor market, and social policies.
Brazil’s working-age population (15-64) is still large, but it is growing at a slower pace. With fewer children being born, the number of young people entering the labor market will decrease in the coming decades.
This could potentially lead to labor shortages and a slowdown in economic growth.
Labor Market Challenges
- Fewer workers to fill jobs in key sectors.
- Increased competition for skilled workers.
- Higher wage demands as the supply of workers shrinks.
| Year | Working-Age Population | Economic Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 60% | 2.5% |
| 2030 | 58% | 2.2% |
| 2040 | 55% | 1.8% |
Aging Population: Strain on Healthcare and Social Systems
With an increasing number of elderly citizens, Brazil’s healthcare system faces greater pressure.
The life expectancy has risen, and by 2025, seniors will account for nearly 11% of the population, a significant increase from just a few decades ago.
Healthcare Impact
- Greater demand for geriatric care.
- Rising costs of chronic disease management.
- Pressure on public healthcare services as the elderly population grows.
Social Security
With more people living longer, there will be an increasing strain on pension systems and retirement benefits. The need to adapt these systems to the aging population will be critical.
Changing Family Structures: Fewer Children, More Elderly Care
Fertility rates in Brazil have dropped to 1.60 children per woman in 2025, contributing to smaller family sizes.
Impact on Families
- Fewer children to support aging parents.
- Greater reliance on institutional care, such as nursing homes and senior living communities.
- The social fabric may change, with more elderly people living alone.
Urbanization and Economic Shifts
As cities grow, economic opportunities shift from rural areas to urban centers.
- The concentration of economic activity in urban hubs like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
- Disparities between urban and rural areas, with rural areas seeing slower growth and urban areas experiencing rapid expansion.
| City | Population (2025) | GDP Contribution (%) |
|---|---|---|
| São Paulo | 12.4 million | 11% |
| Rio de Janeiro | 6.7 million | 9% |
| Belo Horizonte | 2.7 million | 5% |
FAQs
1. What is Brazil’s population growth rate in 2025?
Brazil’s population growth rate in 2025 is 0.54%, reflecting a slower rate of increase compared to previous decades.
2. How has Brazil’s fertility rate changed over the years?
Brazil’s fertility rate has significantly declined from 6.05 children per woman in 1960 to 1.60 in 2025, below the replacement level of 2.1.
3. What percentage of Brazil’s population is elderly in 2025?
In 2025, seniors (65 and older) account for nearly 11% of Brazil’s population, a significant increase from previous years.
4. How does Brazil’s population density compare regionally?
Brazil’s overall population density is 26 people per km², with the Southeast region being the most densely populated due to cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
The Bottom Line
Brazil population in 2025 is over 218 million. The country faces a growing urban population with over 91% living in cities.
As fertility rates decline and the median age rises to 34.8 years, Brazil experiences slower growth and an aging population.
The shift to cities and the demand for services in these urban areas will need careful attention to ensure infrastructure and resources keep up with the needs of an evolving demographic.
With fewer births and an increasing number of elderly citizens, Brazil must find new ways to address its future challenges.
