Population Growth Rate
Definition
The annual percentage change in total population, including both natural increase (births minus deaths) and net migration.
Why It Matters
Growth rate determines whether a population is expanding, stable, or shrinking. Rapidly growing populations need more housing, schools, and infrastructure. Shrinking populations face labor shortages and fiscal pressure.
How It's Measured
Calculated as: ((Population at end of year - Population at start of year) / Population at start of year) x 100. Published annually by the World Bank and national statistics agencies.
Current Value
US: approximately 0.5%; World: approximately 0.9%
Related Ranking
View ranking →Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
The annual percentage change in total population, including both natural increase (births minus deaths) and net migration.
Growth rate determines whether a population is expanding, stable, or shrinking. Rapidly growing populations need more housing, schools, and infrastructure. Shrinking populations face labor shortages and fiscal pressure.
Calculated as: ((Population at end of year - Population at start of year) / Population at start of year) x 100. Published annually by the World Bank and national statistics agencies.