How many people are there in South America?
As the fourth largest continent in the world, South America’s population has always attracted much attention. In recent years, with the changes in global demographic structure and the economic development of South American countries, the region's population data has also undergone significant changes. This article will analyze the population status of South America from multiple dimensions based on the latest data.
1. Total population of South America
As of 2023, the total population of South America is approximately 438 million, accounting for 5.6% of the global population. The following is the population data of each country in South America:
| country | Population (millions) | Proportion of South America |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil | 215.3 | 49.2% |
| Colombia | 51.8 | 11.8% |
| Argentina | 45.8 | 10.5% |
| Peru | 33.7 | 7.7% |
| Venezuela | 28.4 | 6.5% |
| chile | 19.5 | 4.5% |
| Others | 43.5 | 9.9% |
2. Population growth rate
South America's population growth rate is showing a downward trend, with an average growth rate of 0.9% in 2023. The population growth rates of major countries are as follows:
| country | annual growth rate |
|---|---|
| Brazil | 0.7% |
| Colombia | 1.1% |
| Argentina | 0.9% |
| Peru | 1.2% |
| Venezuela | -1.5% |
3. Population Density
South America has a relatively low population density, averaging 24 people/km². However, there are large differences between countries:
| country | Population density (person/square kilometer) |
|---|---|
| Ecuador | 72 |
| Colombia | 46 |
| Brazil | 25 |
| Argentina | 16 |
| bolivia | 11 |
4. Level of urbanization
South America is one of the most urbanized regions in the world, with an average urbanization rate of 83%. The urbanization rates of major countries are as follows:
| country | urbanization rate |
|---|---|
| Argentina | 92% |
| Uruguay | 95% |
| Brazil | 87% |
| Peru | 79% |
| paraguay | 62% |
5. Characteristics of population structure
1.age structure: The average age of the population in South America is 31 years old, and it is in a period of demographic dividend. The median age is 33 in Brazil and 31 in Colombia.
2.sex ratio: The overall male-to-female ratio is basically balanced at 0.98:1. However, in some countries, such as Argentina and Uruguay, the proportion of women is slightly higher.
3.Racial composition: The racial composition of South America is complex, mainly including: - Mixed-race population: about 50% - Europeans: about 35% - Africans: about 10% - Aboriginal people: about 5%
6. Population Development Trend
According to United Nations projections, the population of South America will reach about 510 million by 2050. Major development trends include:
1. Population growth rate continues to slow down and is expected to drop to 0.4% in 2050
2. The aging process is accelerating, and the proportion of the population over 65 years old will increase from the current 8% to 18%.
3. The urbanization process continues to advance, and the urbanization rate is expected to reach 88% in 2050
4. The increase in international migration, especially the flow of Venezuelan refugees, affects regional population distribution.
7. Relationship between population and economy
South America’s population distribution is closely related to economic development:
1. The Sao Paulo region of Brazil has 22% of the country’s population and contributes 33% of its GDP.
2. Argentina’s Buenos Aires metropolitan area accounts for 33% of the country’s population and 45% of its GDP.
3. Coastal areas concentrate 75% of South America’s population and 85% of its economic activities
To sum up, South America currently has a population of approximately 438 million and is in a period of demographic transition. In the coming decades, the region will face multiple challenges and opportunities such as urbanization, aging and economic growth.
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