Ghana Population

Ghana's fertility has been falling steadily, though it remains above the replacement level, leaving the country with a young and still-growing population. Relatively stable and rapidly urbanising, Ghana is often seen as a regional bellwether for West Africa's transition. The central task is generating enough jobs for the cohorts of young people now reaching working age.

Ghana is the world's 46th most populous country, home to about 35.4 million people in 2026. Set in Western Africa, its demographic path this century turns on the balance of births, deaths and migration. Population density stands at about 157 people for every square kilometre of land.

The defining marker in Ghana's future is its peak, expected around 2100 at about 67.5 million. After that the population eases back toward 67.5 million by 2100, having passed through 50.3 million at mid-century. It is projected to pass the 50 million mark around 2050.

Half of Ghana is currently younger than about 21, but by 2100 the median age is projected to reach around 37, even as life expectancy improves from about 66 years. An older population gradually reshapes the labour force, pension systems and healthcare demand.

At roughly 3.34 births per woman, fertility remains above replacement, though it has been trending down.

The trajectory above is the UN's medium scenario. Wars, policy shifts, economic change and migration can all move the numbers, but the broad shape, growth followed by an eventual peak, is robust across the main variants.