The World's Aging Population

What We're Showing

This infographic shows the historical and projected average age and growth rates of the global population from 1980 to 2100. It highlights how global population growth is slowing while the average age rises.

The data comes from the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) World Economic Outlook, April 2025 edition.

The Rise of the Silver Economy

Declining fertility rates and rising life expectancies are contributing to aging economies worldwide, with population growth slowing down.

The average age of the global population is up from 26.5 years in 1980 to 33.6 years in 2025. Meanwhile, the average growth rate of the global population has also halved, from 1.8% in 1980 to 0.9% in 2025.

The growth rate is expected to hit zero by 2084, and the world's population is expected to begin declining by 2085, with the average age rising to 42. At the end of the 21st century, the average age is projected to be 43 years.

Population aging has several negative consequences on economic growth, including a shrinking labor force, slower productivity growth, and higher financial strain on public pension systems. However, the IMF notes that although people are living longer, they're also living healthier for longer, resulting in more extended and productive working lives.

While healthy aging will help in slowing down the negative impacts on economic growth, population aging remains a cause for concern globally, with both advanced and emerging economies needing to navigate this demographic shift over the 21st century.