Europe Germany Population: A Closer Look at the Numbers
Germany is one of the most populous countries in Europe, making up a significant portion of the continent’s population. As of 2019, Germany’s population was estimated to be 83.02 million, making it the most populous country in the European Union and the fifth most populous in the world. Germany is also one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, with an average of 229 people per square kilometer.
Germany’s population is highly diverse, with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. The largest ethnic group in Germany is German, making up 91.5% of the population. Other ethnic groups include Turkish (3.7%), Polish (1.4%), Italian (1.3%), and Greek (0.4%). The majority of Germany’s population is Christian, with around 66% identifying as Protestant and 29% as Catholic.
Germany’s population has been growing steadily since the end of World War II, but the growth rate has slowed in recent years. In 2019, the population growth rate was 0.1%, compared to 0.5% in 2009. The fertility rate in Germany is also low, with an average of 1.5 children per woman. This is one of the lowest fertility rates in Europe and is significantly lower than the replacement rate of 2.1.
Germany has a relatively high life expectancy, with an average of 81.2 years. This is higher than the European average of 81.1 years and is in line with other developed countries such as the United States and Canada. Germany also has a low infant mortality rate of 3.7 deaths per 1,000 live births, which is lower than the European average of 4.2.
While Germany’s population is growing slowly, it is also aging quickly. The median age in Germany is 46.2 years, which is higher than the European average of 42.7 years. The proportion of people aged 65 and over is also increasing, making up 18.3% of the population in 2019.
Germany’s population is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, albeit at a slower rate. The population is projected to reach 84.3 million by 2029, and is expected to peak at around 87 million in 2060. After that, the population is projected to decline due to low fertility rates and an aging population.
Despite the slow growth rate, Germany remains one of the most populous countries in Europe. With a diverse population and a high life expectancy, Germany is well-positioned to continue to be a major player in the European Union.