Top Most Populous Countries in 2100: India No. 1, China 2nd, Pakistan Joins the Top 3; Check Full List

By the year 2100, the global population will increase rapidly and will undergo major changes. According to the UN World Population Prospects 2024, India is projected to reach a staggering 1.51 billion people, while China, currently the world's most populated nation, will see a sharp decline due to shifting patterns. Let's take a closer look at the countries that will dominate the world in numbers by 2100.

Key Takeaways from the UN's 2100 Population Forecast

1. India Leads with 1.51 Billion People

India is expected to remain the most populous country, reaching a massive 1.51 billion people by the end of the century. While its population growth rate is expected to slow down in the coming decades, it will still retain its position at the top, far surpassing China.

2. China's Population Decline to 633 Million

China, which currently has over 1.4 billion people, is expected to experience a massive population decline, dropping to 633 million. This marks a significant demographic shift, largely due to aging, declining birth rates, and economic factors that have influenced lower fertility rates in the country.

3. Pakistan to Become the Third Most Populous Nation

India's neighbor Pakistan is forecasted to have 511 million people by 2100, making it the third-largest country in terms of population. The rapid population growth in South Asia will continue to be a key trend in the coming decades.

4. Africa's Population Boom: The Rise of Nigeria, DRC, and Ethiopia

African nations are set to experience explosive population growth.

Nigeria (477M) is expected to become the fourth most populous country, as its population is rising steadily while being Africa's economic powerhouse.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is expected to reach 431 million, and Ethiopia will have 367 million.

Tanzania (263M) will join the ranks of the top 10 most populous countries despite being a small country.

5. The United States Remains a Top Contender

Despite slower growth, the United States (421M) will remain the sixth most populous country in the world, mainly due to immigration and stable birth rates. Currently the United States has a population of 346 million as of 2025.

6. Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Egypt to Stay in the Top 15

Southeast Asia and South Asia will continue to be densely populated, with Indonesia (296M), Bangladesh (209M), and Egypt (202M) holding significant positions in the global population rankings.

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7. South America and the Middle East See Slower Growth

Brazil (163M) and Mexico (130M) remain the only Latin American countries in the top 15, while Sudan (137M) and Angola (150M) represent Africa's continuing growth trend.

What This Means for the Future

Countries with large populations, such as India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, will have significant economic influence, driven by a young workforce and expanding markets. China's shrinking population could pose challenges for its economy, especially in terms of labor shortages and aging demographics. Food security and water management will become critical issues as nations grapple with sustaining large populations.