Catalina Espinosa
Research expert covering society, economy, and politics for Europe and the EU
Demographics in Vietnam - statistics & facts
Vietnam is the 16th most populous country in the world and ranks among the nations with the highest population density. The population, however, is not evenly distributed across the country. The Red River Delta and the Mekong River Delta have the highest concentrations of inhabitants, historically due to favorable conditions for key economic activities such as agriculture and fisheries. Following the Doi Moi economic reforms in the 1980s, rapid urbanization further solidified these regions as the most densely populated urban centers in Vietnam.
Population of Vietnam
Vietnam’s population increased rapidly between the 1960s and 1970s. Nevertheless, population growth has slowed down drastically over the last two decades, largely due to the government’s efforts to control overpopulation through extensive family planning initiatives. As a result, Vietnam’s population growth rate declined from 2.6 percent in 1970 to less than one percent in recent years. In 2024, the country's total population surpassed 101 million. Although Vietnam has a relatively young demographic, the share of population aged 65 years and older has been increasing rapidly in recent years. Meanwhile, the average life expectancy in Vietnam reached approximately 75 years, which is considered high for countries with similar income levels. Vietnam’s economic development has also led to the rise of a growing middle-income population, with the fastest annual growth rate in ASEAN.Urbanization in Vietnam
Vietnam has undergone rapid urbanization in recent years, resulting in a significant population imbalance between urban and rural areas. In particular, Ho Chi Minh City recorded a population density of 4,513 inhabitants per square kilometer in 2023—nearly 15 times the national average and higher than any major city in China. Industrialization, increased accessibility to social services, and better living standards have been the key drivers of urbanization in Vietnam. Besides contributing to economic development, heavy urbanization also brings about various challenges. These include inadequate housing, overcrowded healthcare facilities, and a competitive job market that has resulted in a higher unemployment rate in urban areas compared to their rural counterparts, despite the availability of more job opportunities. The significant disparity in poverty rates between urban and rural areas remains a significant challenge for the Vietnamese government.
