The 7th Population and Housing Census 2023, released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, provides a comprehensive overview of the nation’s demographic landscape.
With a total population of 241 million (241,499,431), Pakistan has secured the top spot in terms of population within the region.
The census highlights a notable population growth rate of 2.55 percent since the last census in 2017, when the population was recorded at 207,684,626. This increase underscores the need for strategic planning to manage the country’s expanding populace.
Family Size and Marital Status
According to the report, the average household size in Pakistan is 6.30 members. A significant portion of the population, 29.75 percent, remains unmarried, while 65.97 percent are married. Additionally, the census reveals that widows constitute 3.78 percent of the population, and 0.35 percent are divorced. Furthermore, 0.15 percent of individuals have opted for separation.
Youth Dominance
A striking 79 percent of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 40, indicating a young demographic. Of this, 40.56 percent are below 15 years of age, and 26 percent fall within the 15 to 29 age group. This youthful population presents both opportunities and challenges for the country’s future development.
Implications for the Future
These demographic figures highlight the urgency of addressing Pakistan’s rapid population growth. If current trends continue, the population could potentially double by 2050, necessitating immediate measures to curb the growth rate and ensure sustainable development.
