Nepal Population 2026

As of 2025, Nepal's population is estimated at 29,651,054, placing it 51st globally among countries. The nation has experienced a slight 1-year population decline of -0.15%, though its 10-year average growth rate remains positive at 0.69%. Nepal is classified as a lower middle-income country in South Asia.

Population
29,651,054
Estimate for 2026
Global rank
#51
Among all countries
1-year growth
-0.15%
10-year avg growth
+0.69%
Region
South Asia
Income group
Lower middle income

Population Trend (Nepal)

Population by Decade

Population milestones

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

199019,524,573
200024,546,509++25.72% since 1990
201027,341,952++11.39% since 2000
202028,966,574++5.94% since 2010
202429,651,054++2.36% since 2020

Overview

Nepal's demographic trends reflect a period of slow growth and recent contraction, with a 1-year growth rate of -0.15% in 2025. This marks a shift from the 10-year average growth of 0.69%, indicating possible effects of emigration, declining fertility, or other population dynamics. The country's population of nearly 30 million places it as a mid-sized nation in South Asia, a region characterized by high population densities and diverse economic profiles. As a lower middle-income country, Nepal faces challenges in balancing population growth with development, though its current slight decline may ease pressure on resources. The global rank of #51 underscores Nepal's position among the world's most populous nations, yet its growth trajectory is notably slower than many of its regional neighbors.

Key Facts

  • Nepal's estimated population in 2025 is 29,651,054.
  • The country's 1-year growth rate is -0.15%, indicating a slight decline.
  • Over the past decade, Nepal's average annual growth rate has been 0.69%.
  • Nepal is ranked 51st globally by population size.
  • Nepal is classified as a lower middle-income country in South Asia.
  • The population figure for 2025 reflects a net decrease from the previous year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Nepal in 2025?
Nepal's population in 2025 is estimated at 29,651,054.
What is Nepal's population growth rate in 2025?
Nepal's 1-year growth rate for 2025 is -0.15%, meaning the population has slightly decreased.
What is Nepal's global population rank?
Nepal is ranked 51st in the world by population as of 2025.
Is Nepal's population growing or shrinking?
Nepal's population is shrinking slightly in 2025, with a -0.15% growth rate, though its 10-year average growth is 0.69%.
What income group is Nepal in?
Nepal is classified as a lower middle-income country.

Data sources & terms