Countries With The Highest Percentage Of Female Population

Countries With The Highest Percentage Of Female Population

Across the world, women make up nearly half (49.7%) of the global population. But in some countries, the balance tips noticeably higher. In fact, several nations and territories report female populations that exceed 53%, a significant demographic tilt.

This visualization highlights the 15 countries that have the highest percentage of women, based on the most recent available data from the World Bank.

Where Women Outnumber Men the Most

Leading the list is Hong Kong, where women make up 54.9% of the population. Moldova (54.0%), Macao (53.9%), and Latvia (53.7%) follow closely behind.

Many of the top-ranking countries are located in Eastern Europe, where factors such as higher male mortality rates and emigration patterns have contributed to the gender imbalance.

Island nations and regions such as Puerto Rico, Aruba and Tonga also appear on the list, further emphasizing how geography and migration patterns can shape national demographics.

Why These Gaps Exist

Several underlying causes contribute to these gender disparities. Life expectancy is a major factor—women tend to live longer than men globally. In regions like Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, high male mortality rates due to health and social factors deepen the gap. 

Additionally, emigration trends, especially among working age men, play a role in countries like Moldova, Ukraine, and Armenia.

Although the differences may seem small, even a 2–3% gender gap at the national level can have significant social and economic implications, influencing labor markets, family structures, and public policy.

Remarks

Are you from one of these countries? Or have insights on what might be driving these trends? I would love to hear your perspective, wherever you're from.