Vietnam Population in 2025: Current Data, Trends and Future Projections

The Vietnam population has passed 103 million people and continues to grow, but at a slower pace than in previous decades. This large and increasingly urban country now plays a central role in Southeast Asia’s economy and regional politics. Understanding who lives in Vietnam, where they live and how fast the population is changing helps explain everything from job opportunities and housing markets to social services. For travelers, students and remote workers, knowing the demographic profile also gives useful context for daily life and long‑term plans. This article brings together the latest estimates, simple explanations and future outlook for the population of Vietnam up to the middle of the century.

Introduction to the Vietnam population today

Vietnam’s population today is both sizeable and dynamic. The country has moved in just a few decades from high birth rates and widespread poverty to lower fertility, rising incomes and rapid urbanisation. As a result, the Vietnam country population now combines a still‑large working‑age group with a quickly growing older generation, especially in cities. These shifts shape Vietnam’s economic strength, its labour supply and its place in the wider Asian region.

History of Vietnam explained in 8 minutes (All Vietnamese dynasties)

For everyday life, demographic data translate into very practical questions. A growing population in big cities means pressure on housing, transport and schools. A maturing age structure affects the kinds of jobs that are available, the demand for healthcare and the amount of tax revenue governments need to support pensions. For international students, remote workers or business travellers, knowing the basic population picture can help when comparing living costs, assessing job prospects or understanding how crowded a city might feel. Throughout this guide, Vietnam population figures are presented as approximate ranges, making them easy to understand and simple to update as new statistics appear.

Why understanding the Vietnam country population matters

The size and structure of the Vietnam population are closely linked to the country’s economic weight. With more than 100 million residents, Vietnam offers a large domestic market and a deep pool of workers for manufacturing, services and technology industries. This has helped attract foreign investment and made Vietnam a key player in Southeast Asian supply chains. At the same time, the composition of the population by age, education and location influences productivity, innovation and wage levels.

CS-3 Unlocking Vietnams Growth Potential Future Insights B Brennan

For individuals, demographic information is not just an abstract concept. It influences cost of living, competition for jobs and the pressure on infrastructure that people feel day to day. A young, growing workforce can mean more entry‑level jobs but also more competition for housing near business districts or universities. An aging population may create new opportunities in healthcare, finance and care services, but can also lead to higher taxes and increased demand for social support. By looking at population size, growth, age structure and urbanisation together, readers can better understand how Vietnam is changing and what that might mean for their own plans to visit, study or work in the country.

Key facts and quick overview of the population of Vietnam

As of around late 2025, the population of Vietnam is estimated at about 103.4 to 103.5 million people. This is up from roughly 102.8 to 103.0 million in 2024, showing that the country is still growing, though not very quickly. Vietnam accounts for a little over 1.2 percent of the world’s population and usually ranks around 16th among the world’s most populous countries.

Vietnam Country Map 🌍 Population (2025 est.): Around 100 million Area: ~331,000 sq km #vietnam #map

The country is moderately young but aging fast. The median age is around 33 to 34 years, which is older than many other Southeast Asian neighbours but younger than most high‑income countries. About two‑fifths of people live in cities, with the rest in rural areas, though the share living in urban areas is increasing each year. Key urban centres include Ho Chi Minh City (often still called Saigon), Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang and Can Tho.

Population density is relatively high when compared with the global average. Vietnam has a land area of roughly 331,000 square kilometres and an average density of around 320 to 340 people per square kilometre. Dense clusters are found in the Red River Delta in the north and the Mekong Delta in the south, while mountainous and highland regions are more sparsely settled. All numbers in this article are rounded and should be seen as best‑available estimates drawn from recent international and national statistics, rather than fixed, unchanging values.

Overview: What is the current population of Vietnam?

For many readers, the main question is simple: what is the population of Vietnam right now? As of around 2025, recent estimates suggest that Vietnam has about 103.4 to 103.5 million residents. This total reflects both natural population increase (more births than deaths) and the effect of migration, which in Vietnam’s case is small or slightly negative.

🇻🇳 Vietnam population growth (1955–2025)

Compared with 2024, when the Vietnam population was roughly 102.8 to 103.0 million, the country has added less than a million people in a year. The annual growth rate now sits below 1 percent, a clear sign that Vietnam has moved past the era of very rapid expansion. However, the population is still large enough, and young enough, to support continued economic development if education, health and infrastructure keep pace.

Total population of Vietnam and global ranking

The total population of Vietnam in 2025 is estimated at around 103.4 to 103.5 million people. This makes the Vietnam country population one of the largest in Southeast Asia and places the country among the top 20 globally, usually around 16th position. While the exact ranking can shift slightly as other nations grow, Vietnam consistently appears in the group of medium‑large global powers in demographic terms.

Top 10 Most Populous Countries with GDP Per Capita 2025

In global perspective, Vietnam’s residents represent about 1.2 to 1.3 percent of everyone alive today. This is a modest share compared with giants like China or India, but still very significant. For regional comparisons, Vietnam’s population is larger than that of Thailand and Myanmar and similar in scale to the Philippines, though growth patterns differ. The national count has been rising steadily, but more slowly over time as birth rates fall and life expectancy improves.

For quick reference, the following simple table summarises headline figures based on estimates for 2024–2025:

These numbers give a snapshot of where Vietnam stands today. For anyone making plans around study, work or business in the country, it can be useful to keep in mind that the Vietnam population 2024 and 2025 figures are already above 100 million and still inching upward. Over the next decade, most projections expect growth to continue, but at an even slower pace.

Daily births, deaths and migration in Vietnam

Behind the annual statistics are everyday events: births, deaths and people moving in or out of the country. Each day in Vietnam, several thousand babies are born and somewhat fewer people die, creating what demographers call “natural increase.” For example, if there are about 4,000 births and 2,500 deaths on a typical day, the population grows by around 1,500 people from natural causes alone.

[Live] Population Count 2025

Natural increase is different from migration. Net migration is the balance between people entering Vietnam to live and people leaving the country for work, study or family reasons. In recent years, Vietnam has had small or slightly negative net migration. This means that slightly more people leave than arrive each year, although the numbers are modest compared with the overall size of the population.

To see how these flows add up, imagine that natural increase adds around 500,000 to 600,000 people per year, while net migration removes perhaps tens of thousands. The total annual growth would then be somewhat lower than the natural increase alone, helping to explain why the Vietnam population growth rate has fallen below 1 percent. For potential migrants, this distinction matters. Even if many Vietnamese people go abroad for temporary work or study, the country’s total population still grows because births remain higher than deaths at the national level.

Population density and land area of Vietnam

Vietnam stretches in a long S‑shape along the eastern coast of the Indochinese peninsula. Its land area is about 331,000 square kilometres, including mountains, river deltas, coastal plains and highlands. When the country’s more than 103 million people are spread across this territory, the result is an average population density of roughly 320 to 340 people per square kilometre.

ASEAN Population Density 1950 - 2050 Excluding Singapore

This density is much higher than the global average, which is closer to 60 people per square kilometre. However, Vietnam is still less crowded than some regional neighbours such as Singapore or parts of the Philippines and Indonesia, especially on a country‑wide basis. What matters for daily life is that population is not evenly spread. Some regions are very densely settled, while others feel much more open.

The table below offers a simple overview of how population density varies across major regions inside Vietnam. The numbers are rounded and intended only to give a sense of relative differences rather than exact counts.

For visitors and new residents, these variations help explain why some urban areas feel crowded and fast‑paced, while trips to highland provinces feel calmer. High density in the Red River and Mekong Deltas supports intensive agriculture and busy trade but also creates challenges in transport, environmental management and disaster preparedness.

Population structure: age, sex and urban–rural breakdown

Knowing the total number of people in a country is only the first step. The age and sex structure of the Vietnam population, and the balance between urban and rural residents, reveal much more about how society and the economy function. A population with many children has different needs from one with a large elderly group; a heavily urbanised country faces different issues from one that is mostly rural.

Vietnam Demographic U Turn: The Economic Crisis Ahead

Vietnam is now in a transitional phase. It still enjoys a relatively large working‑age population, but the share of older people is increasing quickly as life expectancy rises and families have fewer children. At the same time, more and more people live in cities, especially in industrial and service‑sector hubs. These trends affect everything from school building plans and university enrolments to pension systems and housing markets.

Age groups and median age of the Vietnam population

Demographers often divide a country’s population into broad age groups to understand its social and economic profile. In Vietnam, a common breakdown is children (0–14 years), working‑age adults (15–64 years) and older people (65 years and above). The shares of these groups have changed significantly over the past few decades as fertility rates have fallen and life expectancy has improved.

I explained what median age means in the description

Today, children make up a smaller share of the Vietnam population than in the 1990s, while older adults account for a growing proportion. The median age, which is the age at which half the population is younger and half is older, has risen to around 33–34 years. Twenty years ago it was closer to the mid‑20s. This shift indicates that Vietnam is moving from a very youthful profile toward a more mature one.

The following compact table summarises the approximate current age structure:

A maturing age structure has several practical implications. On the positive side, a large working‑age group has supported Vietnam’s economic rise by providing labour for factories, services and new industries. On the other hand, the growing number of older residents will increase demand for pensions, long‑term care and age‑friendly infrastructure. For families, having fewer children can make it easier to invest in each child’s education, but it can also mean fewer relatives available to help care for elderly parents in the future.

Sex ratio and gender balance in Vietnam

The sex ratio describes the balance between males and females in a population. Overall, Vietnam has a slightly higher number of women than men, especially in older age groups, which is common in many countries due to women’s longer life expectancy. However, at birth and in younger cohorts, Vietnam has experienced a gender imbalance, with more boys being born than girls.

Sex Ratio at Birth Imbalance in Viet Nam: In-depth analysis from the 2019 Census

In recent years, the reported sex ratio at birth has been above the natural level of around 105 male births for every 100 female births. In some periods, it has approached or exceeded 110, indicating a preference for sons in some families. Social and cultural factors, including traditional ideas about sons carrying on the family line and supporting parents in old age, have contributed to this pattern. Access to prenatal sex determination technologies has also played a role.

The government and various organisations have responded with public awareness campaigns and policies promoting gender equality. Efforts focus on explaining the long‑term consequences of skewed sex ratios and encouraging equal valuing of daughters and sons. If strong son preference continued unchecked, Vietnam could face future challenges such as a surplus of men in certain age groups, potential difficulties for some men to marry and related social tensions. Regional variations are also important: some provinces show more balanced ratios, while others, often those with higher incomes or urbanisation, have reported stronger imbalances at birth. Using respectful, neutral language is essential in discussing these trends, which reflect deep social norms rather than the actions of any single group.

Urban versus rural population distribution

Vietnam’s population is still slightly more rural than urban, but the balance is changing quickly. At present, around 38–42 percent of residents live in areas classified as urban, while the majority still live in rural communes and smaller towns. Three decades ago, the urban share was much lower, which shows how rapid the country’s urbanisation has been.

How Fast Is Vietnam Urbanising? - International Policy Zone

In official statistics, an urban area typically refers to a city, town or township that meets certain criteria for population size, density and infrastructure. Large cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Hai Phong clearly fit this description, but there are also many smaller provincial capitals and industrial zones that count as urban. Rural areas usually have lower population densities, more agricultural employment and fewer large service facilities, though they too are changing as roads, factories and tourism developments expand.

Urban and rural populations in Vietnam differ in several ways. Cities tend to have younger populations because they attract students and young workers seeking jobs in manufacturing, services and technology. Urban residents are more likely to work in factories, offices, shops or the digital economy, while rural residents are more likely to be involved in farming, aquaculture or small‑scale trade. Access to services such as higher education, specialised healthcare and cultural activities is generally better in cities, although congestion, air pollution and high housing costs are common concerns.

For rural communities, fewer young people can mean labour shortages in agriculture and changing village life as older people form a larger share of residents. For those considering moving to Vietnam, it is useful to note that “urbanisation levels” are not just statistics. They translate into everyday questions such as commuting times, the availability of public transport, the range of schools and hospitals nearby and the likelihood of living in a high‑rise apartment rather than a detached house.

Population of major cities in Vietnam

Vietnam’s demographic story is increasingly an urban one. While villages and small towns remain home to many people, large cities pull in migrants, investment and new services. The population of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and several regional centres helps shape national trends in employment, housing demand and infrastructure development.

Largest Cities in Vietnam by Population (1950 - 2035) | Vietnamese Cities | Vietnam | YellowStats

For international readers, these cities are also the most likely destinations, whether for tourism, study or remote work. Knowing how many people live in each urban area, and how fast they are growing, can provide a sense of scale and help with planning. It also reveals differences in economic structure and living conditions between Vietnam’s north, centre and south.

Ho Chi Minh City population and metropolitan growth

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest urban area and its main commercial hub. The official population of the city, within its administrative boundary, is generally reported at around 9 to 10 million residents. However, many experts believe the true number of people living and working in the wider metropolitan area is above 12 million once unregistered migrants and temporary workers are included.

Population in Ho Chi Minh City

This difference between the “registered” population and the “de facto” population arises from Vietnam’s household registration system. Many internal migrants maintain official registration in their home provinces while living most of the year in Ho Chi Minh City for work or study. As a result, they may not appear in the city’s formal resident count even though they use local transport, housing and services. For business planning and urban management, estimates for the functional metropolitan area are therefore very important.

Ho Chi Minh City’s growth has been driven by a shift from agriculture to manufacturing and services, supported by foreign investment, trade and a booming consumer market. The city and its neighbouring provinces host many industrial parks producing electronics, textiles, footwear and other export goods. A growing services sector includes finance, retail, logistics, education and tourism. These activities draw young workers from across the country, increasing the city’s population each year.

However, rapid growth also brings challenges. Congestion on roads and motorbike‑filled streets is a common feature of everyday life. Housing prices in central districts and key suburbs have risen quickly, pushing lower‑income residents farther away from job centres. Local authorities are investing in metro lines, ring roads and flood control systems to ease these pressures. To put the city’s scale in context, Ho Chi Minh City alone holds nearly one in every eight or nine residents of Vietnam, making it central to understanding the Vietnam population as a whole.

Hanoi Vietnam population and role as capital city

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is the country’s political centre and an important cultural and economic hub. Within its administrative boundaries, Hanoi’s population is estimated at around 5 to 6 million residents. When the broader capital region, including surrounding districts that function as part of the city’s commuter belt, is considered, the total rises to roughly 8 to 9 million people.

Like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi has expanded quickly in recent decades, but its growth pattern differs in some respects. The city is home to national government institutions, foreign embassies, major universities and research institutes. This gives it a strong base in public administration, education and services. Manufacturing and industrial parks are also important, especially in nearby provinces, but the share of public sector and knowledge‑based employment is higher than in many other Vietnamese cities.

Population growth in Hanoi has prompted major infrastructure investments. New ring roads aim to divert through‑traffic away from the crowded core, while bridges across the Red River link urban districts to developing areas on the opposite bank. A metro system is being built to provide alternatives to motorbikes and buses, though progress has been gradual. These projects respond to both current congestion and expected future increases in residents and commuters.

When comparing Hanoi Vietnam population figures to those of Ho Chi Minh City, it helps to note whether numbers refer to the “city proper” or the larger metropolitan region. For example, Hanoi’s administrative population is smaller than that of Ho Chi Minh City, but the gap narrows once surrounding urbanised districts are included. For people thinking about relocation, both cities offer large labour markets and many educational options, but with different climates, cultural scenes and economic structures.

Da Nang and other growing urban areas in Vietnam

Da Nang, on Vietnam’s central coast, has emerged as one of the country’s most dynamic secondary cities. Its population is often estimated at around 1 to 1.3 million people within the municipal boundary. Da Nang combines a major seaport, beaches and nearby heritage sites with growing information technology and tourism sectors. In recent years, it has gained attention as a base for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a more relaxed environment than the big two metropolitan areas.

Da Nang developing into a liveable city in Asia

Other cities also play important roles in Vietnam’s urban system. Hai Phong in the north, Can Tho in the Mekong Delta and several provincial capitals have substantial populations and growing economic significance. The following table provides a concise comparison of some of the main urban centres, using rounded population ranges to allow for easy updates as new data appear.

The regional balance of these cities matters. The north is anchored by Hanoi and Hai Phong, the centre by Da Nang and surrounding industrial and tourism corridors, and the south by Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho. As Vietnam continues to urbanise, secondary cities are expected to capture a greater share of new investment and population growth, offering alternatives for travelers, international students and remote workers who prefer smaller but still well‑connected urban environments.

Vietnam population by religion and ethnicity

Vietnam is home to a rich mix of religious practices and ethnic groups, shaped by centuries of history and cultural exchange. While the majority of the Vietnam population belongs to the Kinh ethnic group and many people report no formal religious affiliation, everyday belief often blends Buddhism, folk and ancestor worship, and other traditions.

A Brief Introduction to Vietnam and Vietnamese Buddhism

Understanding religion and ethnicity in Vietnam helps explain regional customs, festivals and community life. It is also useful for those seeking to work with local partners, study culture or live respectfully in diverse neighbourhoods. In describing these aspects, it is important to use neutral, inclusive language and to avoid stereotypes, while still recognising that some groups face particular social and economic challenges.

Main religious groups and their population share in Vietnam

Religion in Vietnam is complex because many people follow a mix of belief systems rather than a single organised faith. Official statistics often show a large share of the population as having “no religion,” but this category includes many people who practise ancestor worship, visit temples or take part in local spiritual customs. Buddhism in various forms, Catholicism and other Christian denominations, and several indigenous and syncretic religions all have significant followings.

Religions in Vietnam 🇻🇳 #vietnam #buddhism #christianity #hinduism #islam #religion #viral #fyp

Instead of focusing on exact percentages, which can vary between surveys, it is helpful to think in broad ranges. The table below provides an approximate overview of major religious groups in Vietnam, using rounded values that reflect general patterns rather than precise measurements.

These ranges highlight that religious practice in Vietnam is diverse and often layered. A person may see themselves as not religious in a formal sense, yet still regularly burn incense for ancestors, visit pagodas on important dates or attend church or temple on special occasions. For visitors and new residents, this means that religious festivals, holidays and rituals are a visible and important part of community life, even if many people do not identify strongly with a single faith label.

Muslim population in Vietnam

The Vietnam Muslim population is relatively small compared with other religious communities, but it has deep historical roots and cultural significance. Estimates usually place the number of Muslims in Vietnam in the range of a few hundred thousand people, which is less than 1 percent of the national population. Because of this small share, figures can vary depending on definitions and data sources, so it is best to treat them as approximate.

Islam is Growing in Vietnam Without Dawah #islamicmotivation

Many Muslims in Vietnam belong to the Cham ethnic group, whose historical kingdoms once ruled parts of what is now central and southern Vietnam. Today, Cham Muslim communities are found in certain provinces such as An Giang, Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan, as well as in some urban areas. There are also small numbers of Muslims from other backgrounds, including migrants and people with links to neighbouring countries.

Muslim residents participate in the broader society while maintaining their religious practices, including attendance at mosques, observance of Ramadan and halal dietary rules. Compared with larger religious groups, the Muslim population is less visible in national statistics but plays a meaningful role in the cultural mosaic of southern and central provinces. When discussing the Vietnam Muslim population, it is helpful to avoid over‑precision and instead emphasise that this is a small, distinctive minority whose exact size may shift as new surveys and community estimates become available.

Ethnic composition and regional diversity of Vietnam

Vietnam officially recognises dozens of ethnic groups, but the Kinh (also called Viet) form a clear majority. They account for around 85 to 90 percent of the population and are the main group in most lowland and urban areas. Ethnic minority groups together make up the remaining share and are highly diverse, with their own languages, customs and traditional livelihoods.

Vietnam Ethnic Diversity

Many minority communities live in specific regions. In the northern mountains, groups such as the Tay, Thai, Hmong and Dao form significant proportions of provincial populations. In the Central Highlands, ethnic groups including the Ede, Gia Rai and others live in plateau areas that have seen both agricultural expansion and migration from other regions. In the Mekong Delta, the Khmer Krom and Cham communities are important parts of the local cultural landscape.

These patterns of settlement contribute to Vietnam’s cultural richness but can also be linked to social and economic differences. Some ethnic minority communities face challenges in accessing quality education, stable jobs and modern infrastructure. Language barriers, remote locations and historical patterns of development can all play a role. Government policies and development programmes aim to reduce gaps, but disparities remain visible in indicators such as income, health outcomes and school completion rates.

When describing ethnic diversity, it is essential to use respectful and inclusive language. Ethnic minorities in Vietnam are not a single group; they include many different peoples with distinct histories and identities. Recognising both the contributions of these communities and the structural obstacles some of them face provides a more complete and balanced picture of the Vietnam country population.

Vietnam population abroad and diaspora communities

The story of the Vietnam population does not stop at the country’s borders. Millions of people of Vietnamese origin live overseas, forming vibrant diaspora communities that maintain strong ties with their homeland. These communities support cross‑border business, send remittances and help shape Vietnam’s image abroad.

Where Are We | Overseas Vietnamese

Vietnamese migrants have moved for many reasons over the decades, including conflict, economic opportunity, study, family reunification and labour contracts. Today, large and well‑established diasporas exist in Western countries, while many workers also move temporarily to other Asian nations under organised programmes. For families and businesses in Vietnam, these overseas networks are an important source of income, skills and information.

Vietnamese population in the United States

The United States is home to one of the largest Vietnamese diaspora communities. Estimates suggest that around 2.2 to 2.3 million people of Vietnamese origin live in the US. This includes both people born in Vietnam and their US‑born descendants. Vietnamese Americans are among the largest Southeast Asian groups in the country.

History of Vietnamese in the United States

Several states have particularly large Vietnamese populations. California, especially the Greater Los Angeles area and the San Jose–San Francisco Bay Area, hosts major communities with well‑known “Little Saigon” districts. Texas is another key destination, with sizeable populations in cities such as Houston and Dallas–Fort Worth. Other states with notable Vietnamese communities include Washington, Virginia and Florida, among others.

The history of Vietnamese migration to the United States includes several distinct waves. After the conflict that ended in 1975, many people left Vietnam as refugees or humanitarian migrants, leading to the formation of early communities. Later, family reunification policies allowed relatives to join those already abroad. In more recent years, additional flows have included students, skilled workers and entrepreneurs. These communities maintain language, cultural and religious traditions while also integrating into American society.

For Vietnam, the presence of a large diaspora in the United States has practical impacts. It supports cross‑border trade and investment, tourism, and educational exchanges. Family networks can facilitate study abroad opportunities for younger generations and help returning migrants transfer skills back to Vietnam’s economy.

Other major destination countries for Vietnamese migrants

Beyond the United States, Vietnamese communities are found in many other countries around the world. In Western nations, significant diasporas exist in Australia, Canada, France and Germany, among others. These communities often arose from post‑conflict migration and later family reunification, and they are now well‑established, with second and third generations.

Transpacific Paradigms of Vietnamese Diasporic Knowledge

In countries such as Australia and Canada, the Vietnamese population tends to concentrate in large cities, where they contribute to diverse neighbourhoods and local economies. France has historical ties to Vietnam and hosts communities that include both long‑settled families and more recent arrivals. In Germany and some Eastern European nations, Vietnamese migration also has roots in past labour agreements.

In Asia, many Vietnamese people move abroad as temporary or contract workers. Japan and South Korea, for instance, host large numbers of Vietnamese employees in manufacturing, construction, agriculture and services, as well as students and trainees. Some of these migrants return to Vietnam after a few years, bringing savings and skills, while others stay longer or move on to different countries.

Remittances from overseas Vietnamese are an important part of Vietnam’s economic picture. Money sent home helps families invest in housing, education and small businesses, and supports consumption in many provinces. Return migrants also bring back experience and networks that can benefit domestic industries. When thinking about the Vietnam population in a broad sense, it is therefore useful to consider both the residents inside the country and the millions of people of Vietnamese origin living abroad.

Long-term trends in the Vietnam population: growth, fertility and aging

The current demographic situation in Vietnam is the result of long‑term trends in population growth, fertility and life expectancy. Over the past few decades, the country has moved from a period of rapid growth to one of slower expansion and gradual aging. Understanding this timeline helps place today’s numbers and tomorrow’s projections in context.

Vietnam Fighting Population Decline and Economic Slowdown

Future demographic change in Vietnam will be shaped by how many children families choose to have, how long people live and how migration patterns develop. These factors influence not only the total size of the Vietnam population, but also its age distribution and regional balance. Policymakers, businesses and households all make decisions with these trends in mind, even if they do not always use demographic terms to describe them.

Historical and current Vietnam population growth rate

From around 2000 to 2025, Vietnam’s population grew from roughly 78–79 million to more than 103 million people. This increase of more than 20 million residents happened over a quarter of a century, but the pace of growth has not been constant. In the early 2000s, annual growth rates were higher, often above 1.3 to 1.5 percent per year, reflecting higher fertility and a younger age structure.

Population Change of Asia (2000-2024)

As fertility declined and the population aged, the growth rate began to slow. By the 2010s and early 2020s, annual increases had fallen below 1 percent. Today, the Vietnam population growth rate is around 0.8 to 0.9 percent per year, and many projections suggest it will continue to decline. This means that the country is still growing, but at a much more moderate pace than during earlier decades.

Looking ahead, demographic projections indicate that Vietnam’s total population is likely to peak around the 2030s, perhaps in the range of 107 to 110 million people, depending on how quickly fertility falls and how migration evolves. After reaching this peak, the population may stabilise for a period or slowly begin to decline by 2050. The exact path will depend on policy choices, economic conditions and social preferences, but the overall trend is clear: very rapid growth is in the past, and the future will bring slower expansion and eventual aging.

This narrative can be thought of as a timeline: a high‑growth era in the late‑20th century and early 2000s; a transition to moderate growth in the following decades; and a coming phase of near‑stable or slightly declining numbers. Each phase brings different opportunities and challenges for development, infrastructure planning and social policy.

Fertility decline and changes in population policy

One of the key drivers of Vietnam’s changing population profile is the decline in fertility. Several decades ago, large families with many children were common, and the average number of children per woman was well above the replacement level of about two children. Over time, this figure has fallen to around two children per woman and, in many urban and economically advanced regions, to below that level.

This shift reflects a combination of policy, economic and social changes. Past population policies encouraged smaller families, with slogans and programmes promoting the idea that having fewer children would allow parents to invest more in each child’s health and education. At the same time, urbanisation and rising living costs made large families less practical for many households. Greater access to education, especially for girls and women, and expanding career opportunities have also influenced decisions about marriage and childbearing.

In recent years, as fertility has fallen close to or below replacement level in much of the country, official attitudes have started to change. There is growing discussion about the need to maintain a balanced fertility rate that avoids both very high and very low birth levels. Some policies now focus more on supporting families, improving childcare, and reducing pressures that might discourage people from having the number of children they desire.

For individuals and couples, fertility decisions are influenced by practical concerns. These include housing affordability, access to childcare and schooling, work–life balance and expectations about supporting older relatives. Understanding how the average number of children per family has changed helps explain why the Vietnam population is aging and why the overall growth rate is slowing.

Rapid aging and the end of Vietnam’s demographic dividend

As life expectancy in Vietnam has risen and fertility has declined, the share of older people in the population has begun to grow quickly. More people now live into their 70s, 80s and beyond, while fewer babies are born each year than in the past. This combination leads to what demographers call population aging.

VTV4: Vietnam population opportunities and challenges

For several decades, Vietnam benefited from a “demographic dividend,” a period when the proportion of people in the working‑age group (roughly 15–64 years) was especially high relative to the number of children and elderly dependents. This large workforce supported strong economic growth as the country industrialised and integrated into global markets.

However, as the population ages, this dividend will not last forever. The share of people aged 60 and above is expected to rise from around 12 percent today to more than 20 percent by the mid‑2030s and even higher by 2050. This will have several practical consequences. Pension systems will need to support more retirees for longer periods of time. Healthcare demand will shift towards chronic disease management, rehabilitation and long‑term care, requiring more specialised staff and facilities.

In workplaces, aging may mean that employers need to adapt jobs and training for older employees, and that inter‑generational cooperation becomes more important. Tax systems may come under pressure as a smaller share of the population is working and paying tax while a larger share relies on public services and income support. Families may face increased care responsibilities for elderly relatives, especially if they have fewer children or if younger family members have migrated to cities or abroad.

Recognising these trends early allows governments, businesses and households to prepare. Investments in health, lifelong learning, age‑friendly urban design and social protection can help Vietnam manage the end of its demographic dividend and the rise of an older population while still maintaining social cohesion and economic vitality.

Urbanisation and internal migration in Vietnam

Urbanisation and internal migration are two of the most visible aspects of demographic change in Vietnam. Over recent decades, millions of people have moved from rural areas and smaller towns to cities in search of education, jobs and better services. This movement is reshaping the map of where people live and work, and it has significant implications for infrastructure, housing and the environment.

Understanding these trends helps explain why some regions are growing rapidly while others experience slower population increases or even declines. It also sheds light on the everyday experiences of migrants, many of whom navigate complex registration systems and balance family life between home provinces and urban workplaces.

Urbanisation levels and future urban population targets

Today, around two‑fifths of Vietnam’s population resides in urban areas, up from a much smaller share a few decades ago. This means that tens of millions of people now live in cities or towns that meet official criteria for urban status. The pace of urbanisation has been driven by industrialisation, the expansion of services and the growth of trade and tourism.

Official plans and scenarios often envision Vietnam becoming significantly more urban in the coming decades. This can involve not only the expansion of existing large cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi but also the development of new urban centres, industrial zones and special economic areas. These strategies aim to spread growth more evenly across regions, reduce pressure on the biggest cities and bring jobs closer to where people live.

Urban growth has wide‑ranging effects on daily life. In housing markets, demand for apartments and urban land pushes up prices and can lead to the redevelopment of older neighbourhoods. Transport systems must adapt to heavier traffic, leading to investments in metro lines, bus networks, ring roads and bridges. Environmental pressures, including air pollution, noise and waste management, can increase as more people and vehicles concentrate in compact areas.

For international residents, urbanisation levels matter for practical reasons. High urbanisation usually means better access to international schools, healthcare facilities, co‑working spaces and entertainment options, but also more congestion and sometimes higher living costs. When choosing where to live in Vietnam, it can be useful to weigh the advantages of large metropolitan areas against the quieter pace and lower costs of smaller cities that are still urban but less crowded.

Internal migration patterns and labour flows within Vietnam

Internal migration in Vietnam mainly flows from rural provinces and smaller towns toward large cities and industrial regions. Young adults, especially those in their late teens and twenties, are the most mobile group. They move to places like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, the surrounding industrial provinces and coastal manufacturing hubs to study, work in factories or take up service‑sector jobs.

These migrants make a vital contribution to local economies by filling positions in industries ranging from textiles and electronics to hospitality and logistics. Many send money back to their families in rural areas, helping to support education, housing improvements and everyday expenses. Universities and colleges in major cities also attract students from across the country, many of whom remain after graduation if they find suitable employment.

It is important to distinguish between permanent migration and temporary or seasonal moves. Some people relocate with the intention of settling in a new city for the long term, sometimes moving their whole family and changing their official household registration. Others migrate seasonally, spending part of the year working in urban areas or on construction sites and returning home for farming seasons or family responsibilities. Both types of movement affect local population counts and demand for services, though in different ways.

Internal migrants in Vietnam can face specific challenges. Those who do not change their official registration may have more complicated access to certain public services in their place of work, such as schooling for children or some social benefits. They may also live in crowded rental housing or factory dormitories and face separation from family members who remain in home villages. Policies aimed at making services more portable and improving conditions in migrant‑dense neighbourhoods are an important part of managing Vietnam’s internal population flows.

Economic implications of Vietnam’s demographic change

Demographic trends are closely linked to economic outcomes. The size and structure of the Vietnam population influence how many people are available to work, the kinds of jobs they can fill and the balance between workers and dependents. As Vietnam transitions from a young, fast‑growing population to a more mature and aging one, these relationships are changing.

For international workers, investors and students, understanding these connections can provide insight into which sectors are expanding, where skills are in demand and what policy debates may shape the future business environment. It also highlights why education, health and social protection have become central themes in discussions about Vietnam’s long‑term development.

Labour force size and sectoral employment in Vietnam

Vietnam’s working‑age population, typically defined as those aged 15–64, currently makes up around two‑thirds of the total population. Within this group, a large majority participate in the labour force, either as employees, self‑employed workers or family workers in agriculture and small businesses. This sizeable labour pool has been a key asset in the country’s economic transformation.

Employment in Vietnam has shifted over time from agriculture towards manufacturing and services. A few decades ago, most workers were engaged in farming or related activities. Today, the share of employment in agriculture has fallen significantly, although it still accounts for an important portion of jobs in rural areas. Manufacturing, especially export‑oriented industries such as textiles, footwear and electronics, now employs many people in both state‑owned and foreign‑invested enterprises. Services, including retail, transport, tourism, finance, education and information technology, have grown rapidly in cities.

Regional differences are clear. The Red River Delta and the southeast region around Ho Chi Minh City host many industrial zones and service‑sector opportunities, drawing workers from other provinces. The Central Highlands and some northern mountain areas remain more reliant on agriculture and resource‑based activities, though they too are diversifying into tourism and small‑scale manufacturing. These patterns influence wage levels, job stability and career prospects.

For international workers and remote professionals, Vietnam’s labour market offers both opportunities and competition. A large, increasingly educated young workforce supports the growth of outsourcing, technology services and creative industries. At the same time, local hiring in many sectors is strong, and regulations prioritise domestic employment for certain roles. Understanding sectoral trends can help foreign professionals identify niches where their skills add value alongside Vietnam’s own talent.

Demographics, productivity and future growth challenges for Vietnam

As Vietnam’s population ages and the growth of the working‑age group slows, maintaining strong economic performance will depend increasingly on productivity gains rather than sheer numbers of workers. This means making sure that each person in the labour force can produce more value through better skills, technology, health and management practices.

Education and training are central to this effort. Expanding access to quality schooling, vocational training and higher education can help workers adapt to changes in technology and industry structure. Health also matters: a healthier workforce is more productive, so investments in healthcare, nutrition and safe working conditions are important for long‑term growth.

Policy debates in Vietnam reflect these demographic realities. There is ongoing discussion about appropriate retirement ages as life expectancy rises, and about how to design pension and social protection systems that are both fair and financially sustainable. Childcare support and family‑friendly workplace policies can help parents, especially women, remain in the labour force while raising children. Some policymakers and analysts also consider the potential role of attracting skilled migrants, though Vietnam remains mainly a country of emigration rather than immigration.

In this context, demographics are not destiny, but they do set the stage. The end of the demographic dividend and the rise of an older population will require adjustments in tax systems, workplace norms and social expectations. By focusing on education, innovation and inclusive policies, Vietnam can continue to grow even as its population profile changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current population of Vietnam in 2025?

In late 2025, Vietnam’s population is about 103.4–103.5 million people. This represents roughly 1.24% of the world’s population and ranks the country around 16th largest globally. Men account for about 49.4% and women about 50.6% of the population. The number continues to grow slowly due to low but positive natural increase.

How has the population of Vietnam changed since 2000?

Vietnam’s population has increased steadily from around 78–79 million in 2000 to more than 103 million in 2025. Growth was faster in the early 2000s and has slowed as fertility declined. The annual growth rate has fallen from above 1.3–1.5% to around 0.8–0.9% in recent years, showing a transition toward a more stable population size.

What is the population of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi?

Ho Chi Minh City has an official population of roughly 9–10 million people, but the wider metropolitan area including migrants is often estimated above 12 million. Hanoi has around 5–6 million residents within the city and 8–9 million in the broader capital region. Both cities grow faster than the national average because they attract many internal migrants.

What is the population density of Vietnam compared to other countries?

Vietnam’s population density is around 328 people per square kilometre. This makes it one of the more densely populated countries, especially compared with the global average of about 60 people per square kilometre. Density is much higher in the Red River and Mekong Deltas and lower in mountainous and highland regions.

How old is the average person in Vietnam and is the population aging?

The median age in Vietnam is about 33–34 years, meaning half the population is younger and half is older than this age. The country is aging quickly as fertility falls and life expectancy rises. The share of people aged 60 and over is projected to rise from about 12% today to more than 20% by 2035, increasing demand for health and social care.

What is the Muslim population and main religions in Vietnam?

Muslims form a small minority in Vietnam, generally estimated at a few hundred thousand people, with communities mainly among the Cham ethnic group and some migrants. The main religious landscape includes Buddhism, folk and ancestor worship, Catholicism, and several smaller faiths. Many people combine traditional beliefs with formal religious practice.

How many Vietnamese people live in the United States?

Approximately 2.2–2.3 million people of Vietnamese origin live in the United States. They are one of the largest Southeast Asian diaspora communities there. Major population centres include California and Texas, where Vietnamese communities have developed strong cultural and economic networks.

What will Vietnam’s population be in 2050 according to projections?

Most projections suggest Vietnam’s population will peak around the mid-2030s and then stabilise or slightly decline by 2050. By 2050, estimates often place the total population in the range of 107–110 million depending on future fertility and migration trends. The share of people aged 60 and over is projected to reach about one quarter of the total population.

Conclusion: what the future holds for the population of Vietnam

The population of Vietnam has grown to more than 103 million people, placing the country among the world’s more populous nations and giving it significant economic weight in Southeast Asia. The Vietnam population is relatively dense, increasingly urban and characterised by a large but gradually shrinking working‑age group and a rapidly expanding older generation.

Looking ahead, Vietnam is expected to see continued but slower population growth, a further rise in the share of residents living in cities and a steady increase in the proportion of older people. These trends will shape labour markets, social protection systems, healthcare needs and infrastructure investment. For residents, migrants, students and business travellers, understanding this demographic profile offers a useful lens for interpreting developments in Vietnam’s economy, society and everyday life in the years leading up to 2050.