Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its stunning landscapes and beautiful islands. One question that often arises when discussing Greece is what its population is.
As of 2021, the population of Greece is estimated to be around 10.7 million people. The country has a relatively low population density, with most of its inhabitants living in urban areas such as Athens and Thessaloniki. The population of Greece has been steadily increasing over the past few decades, although it remains lower than many other countries in Europe.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the population growth in Greece, including increased immigration and a higher birth rate. Despite this growth, however, the country still faces a number of challenges when it comes to its demographics, including an ageing population and a declining fertility rate. Understanding the population of Greece is an important part of understanding the country as a whole, and can provide valuable insights into its economy, culture, and society.
Current Population of Greece
Greece, a country located in southeastern Europe, has a current population of approximately 10.7 million people. This number has been relatively stable over the past few years, with only slight fluctuations.
According to the National Statistical Service of Greece, the population is spread out fairly evenly across the country, with the majority of people living in urban areas. The largest cities in Greece are Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras, with Athens being the capital and the most populous city in the country.
The population of Greece is made up of various ethnic groups, with the majority being Greek. There are also small populations of Albanians, Bulgarians, and other nationalities. Greek is the official language of the country, and the majority of the population identifies as Greek Orthodox.
Overall, the population of Greece has remained relatively stable in recent years, with a small increase in population growth rate. The country has a relatively low birth rate and an aging population, which may have implications for the future of the country's economy and social services.
Historical Population Growth
Greece has a long and rich history, and its population has fluctuated over time due to various factors such as wars, epidemics, and migration. Here is an overview of the historical population growth of Greece:
- In 1829, after the Greek War of Independence, the population of Greece was estimated to be around 800,000.
- By 1907, the population had grown to 2.6 million, thanks to natural growth and immigration from other parts of the Ottoman Empire.
- During World War II, Greece suffered greatly, and its population declined due to casualties and famine. By 1944, the population had dropped to 7 million.
- After the war, Greece experienced a period of rapid population growth, fueled by high birth rates and immigration from other parts of Europe. By 1961, the population had reached 8.6 million.
- In the following decades, Greece's population growth slowed down, as birth rates declined and emigration increased. By 2021, the population was estimated to be around 10.7 million.
Overall, Greece's population has gone through significant changes over the centuries, and its current population is the result of a complex mix of historical, social, and economic factors.
Demographics Breakdown
Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe, with a population of approximately 10.7 million people. The country has a diverse population, with various ethnic groups and religions represented.
Ethnicity
The majority of the population in Greece are ethnic Greeks, accounting for around 93% of the population. The remaining 7% of the population consists of various ethnic groups, including Albanians, Roma, and others.
Religion
The Greek Orthodox Church is the dominant religion in Greece, with over 90% of the population identifying as Orthodox Christians. Other religious groups in the country include Muslims, Catholics, and Jews.
Age Distribution
The median age in Greece is around 44 years old, with a relatively even distribution of age groups. However, the country has been experiencing an aging population, with a declining birth rate and increasing life expectancy.
Urban vs Rural
Approximately 80% of the population in Greece live in urban areas, with the largest cities being Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. The remaining 20% of the population live in rural areas, with many working in agriculture and tourism.
Education
Education is highly valued in Greece, with a literacy rate of around 97%. The country has a strong tradition of higher education, with many universities and technical schools located throughout the country.
Urban vs Rural Population
Greece has a total population of approximately 10.7 million people, with around 80% living in urban areas. The remaining 20% of the population resides in rural areas.
Urban areas in Greece are densely populated, with the majority of the population concentrated in Athens, the capital city. Other major cities include Thessaloniki, Patras, and Heraklion. These cities are home to a significant portion of the country's population and are important economic and cultural centres.
On the other hand, rural areas in Greece are characterized by small villages and towns scattered throughout the countryside. These areas are typically less densely populated and are known for their agricultural activities, including the cultivation of olives, grapes, and other crops.
Despite the differences between urban and rural areas, there are also many similarities. For example, both types of areas are experiencing an ageing population, with younger generations moving to cities in search of better job opportunities and a higher standard of living. Additionally, both urban and rural areas are facing challenges related to infrastructure, including transportation and access to healthcare.
Overall, while the majority of Greece's population lives in urban areas, rural areas remain an important part of the country's cultural and economic landscape.
Population Density
Greece has a total land area of approximately 131,957 square kilometers, making it the 96th largest country in the world. As of 2021, the population of Greece is estimated to be around 10.7 million people, with a population density of approximately 81 people per square kilometer.
The population density of Greece varies greatly across the country. The most densely populated areas are the urban centers, such as Athens and Thessaloniki, which have a population density of over 3,000 people per square kilometer. In contrast, the least densely populated areas are the mountainous regions, such as Epirus and the Peloponnese, which have a population density of less than 25 people per square kilometer.
The population density of Greece has been steadily decreasing over the past few decades, due in part to a declining birth rate and increasing emigration. However, the country still has a relatively high population density compared to other European countries, such as Norway and Sweden, which have a population density of less than 20 people per square kilometer.
Overall, the population density of Greece is a reflection of its unique geography and history, as well as its current social and economic conditions. While the country has experienced significant changes in its population density over the years, it remains an important and vibrant part of Europe and the world.
Greece's Population in Comparison
Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe with a population of approximately 10.7 million people as of 2021.
Compared to other countries in Europe, Greece's population is relatively small. In fact, it ranks 15th in terms of population size among European Union member states.
In terms of population density, Greece is also relatively low. With a land area of approximately 131,957 square kilometers, the country has a population density of around 81 people per square kilometer. This is significantly lower than the average population density of the European Union, which is around 117 people per square kilometer.
When compared to other countries in the Mediterranean region, Greece's population is also relatively small. For example, Italy, which is located just across the Ionian Sea from Greece, has a population of approximately 60 million people. Similarly, Turkey, which shares a long border with Greece, has a population of around 84 million people.
Despite its relatively small population size, Greece has a rich history and culture that has influenced many aspects of Western civilization. From philosophy and literature to art and architecture, Greece's contributions to human culture are significant and enduring.
Future Population Projections
According to the United Nations, the population of Greece is projected to decline in the coming years. This is due to a combination of factors, including low birth rates, aging population, and emigration.
Projected Population
| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 10,423,000 |
| 2030 | 10,137,000 |
| 2035 | 9,820,000 |
| 2040 | 9,480,000 |
| 2045 | 9,122,000 |
| 2050 | 8,743,000 |
As can be seen from the table, the population of Greece is expected to decline steadily over the next few decades. By 2050, the population is projected to be around 8.7 million, a decrease of almost 2 million from the current population.
The declining population is likely to have significant implications for the country, including a shrinking workforce, a smaller tax base, and increased pressure on the healthcare system. To address this issue, the government has implemented policies to encourage immigration and increase birth rates.
However, it remains to be seen whether these policies will be effective in reversing the population decline. In the meantime, Greece will need to find ways to adapt to a smaller population and ensure that its economy remains strong and sustainable.