Croatia Population 2026

As of 2025, Croatia's population is estimated at 3,866,200, ranking 129th globally. The country is classified as a high-income economy within the Europe & Central Asia region. This figure reflects a modest 0.17% one-year growth rate, contrasting with a longer-term trend of population decline.

Population
3,866,200
Estimate for 2026
Global rank
#129
Among all countries
1-year growth
+0.17%
10-year avg growth
-0.83%
Region
Europe & Central Asia
Income group
High income

Population Trend (Croatia)

Population by Decade

Population milestones

How Croatia's population changed across key years (World Bank estimates).

19904,777,368
20004,468,302-6.47% since 1990
20104,295,427-3.87% since 2000
20203,914,206-8.88% since 2010
20243,866,200-1.23% since 2020

Overview

Croatia's demographic profile is shaped by a complex interplay of low birth rates, emigration, and an aging population. The latest data shows a slight one-year growth of 0.17% in 2025, which marks a potential stabilization after years of contraction. However, the 10-year average growth rate of -0.83% underscores a sustained period of population loss, driven largely by emigration to other European Union countries and a natural decrease (more deaths than births).

Key Facts

  • Latest population (2025): 3,866,200.
  • One-year growth rate (2025): 0.17%.
  • 10-year average growth rate: -0.83%.
  • Global population rank: #129.
  • Income group: High income.
  • Region: Europe & Central Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Croatia in 2025?
The population of Croatia in 2025 is estimated at 3,866,200.
Is Croatia's population growing or shrinking?
Croatia's population is currently growing at a rate of 0.17% in 2025, but over the past 10 years it has averaged a decline of -0.83% per year.
What is Croatia's global population rank?
Croatia ranks 129th in the world by population.
What income group does Croatia belong to?
Croatia is classified as a high-income country.
How does Croatia's population compare to other European countries?
Croatia is a relatively small European nation with a population of 3.87 million, and it has experienced a long-term decline of -0.83% annually over the past decade, reflecting regional demographic challenges.

Data sources & terms