Lesotho Population 2026
As of 2025, the population of Lesotho is estimated at 2,337,423, placing it as the 146th most populous country in the world. This landlocked nation in Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced a modest 1-year growth rate of 1.12% and a 10-year average growth of 1.17%, reflecting gradual demographic expansion.
Population Trend (Lesotho)
Population by Decade
Population milestones
How Lesotho's population changed across key years (World Bank estimates).
Overview
Lesotho, classified as a lower middle-income country in Sub-Saharan Africa, has a population that continues to grow at a steady but moderate pace. The 2025 figure of 2,337,423 represents a slight increase from recent years, with a 1-year growth rate of 1.12% indicating a stable demographic trajectory. Over the past decade, the country has maintained an average annual growth rate of 1.17%, suggesting consistent population dynamics without dramatic surges or declines. This growth is influenced by factors such as birth rates, mortality, and migration patterns typical of the region. As a small, mountainous nation, Lesotho's population density and distribution are shaped by its geography, with most residents concentrated in lowland areas. The country's lower middle-income status reflects economic challenges that impact healthcare, education, and infrastructure, all of which play roles in shaping demographic trends. Compared to other Sub-Saharan African nations, Lesotho's growth rate is relatively modest, aligning with its status as a smaller population on the global stage.
Key Facts
- The population of Lesotho in 2025 is 2,337,423.
- Lesotho's 1-year growth rate as of 2025 is 1.12%.
- The 10-year average annual growth rate for Lesotho is 1.17%.
- Lesotho is ranked 146th globally in population size.
- The country is classified as a lower middle-income nation in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Lesotho's population growth rate is below the regional average for Sub-Saharan Africa.