Top 20 Countries with Highest Average Age in 2025

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Countries with the Oldest Populations in 2025

Japan Ranks as the Oldest Country, Averaging Nearly 50 Years

Japan continues to hold the distinction of having the oldest population among the world’s nations, with an average age of 49.5 years. This demographic trend is attributed to low birth rates, high life expectancy, and longstanding cultural factors that favor later family formation. Japan’s aging population presents challenges for its workforce, healthcare system, and social services, prompting government initiatives to bolster productivity and immigration policies.

Italy and Germany Follow Closely Behind, Reflecting European Demographic Trends

Italy’s population average reaches 48.1 years, making it the second-oldest country on the list. Germany is close with an average age of 46.7 years. Both countries face shrinking, aging populations that threaten economic stability and necessitate reforms including increased retirement ages and incentives for young families to have more children.

Spain and South Korea Showcase Similar Aging Patterns

Spain’s population averages 46.3 years, demonstrating a significant aging trend across Southern Europe. South Korea parks at 45 years, highlighting a rapidly aging East Asian society driven by high life expectancy and declining birth rates. These countries are investing heavily in elder care infrastructure and exploring policies to encourage higher fertility rates.

Eastern European and North American Countries with Mid-Level Age Averages

Poland, Canada, and France all sit at approximately 42.4 years on average, showcasing diverse aging profiles across Europe and North America. Poland, with lower life expectancy, balances its aging population with efforts to reverse demographic decline. Canada’s robust healthcare and social programs help support its aging citizens, even as the demographic shifts continue.

Russia and the United Kingdom Near the 40-Year Mark

Russia’s average age is 41.5 years, reflecting demographic challenges tied to health and economic factors. The UK, with an average age of 40.6 years, faces similar issues but benefits from immigration policies that help sustain a relatively balanced population structure. Both nations are planning long-term strategies for aging citizens and workforce sustainability.

China and the United States Balance Different Demographic Profiles

China, with an average age of 39.8 years, remains the most populous country but is experiencing demographic shifts due to its past and present family planning policies. The United States boasts an average age of 38.5 years, maintaining a relatively younger demographic thanks to immigration and higher birth rates compared to other developed nations.

Australia and Latin American Countries Show Younger Populations

Australia’s population average sits at 37.9 years, supported by ongoing immigration and stable birth rates. Brazil (34.7 years), Mexico (30.6 years), and Colombia are characterized by younger populations, which delay the aging trend but pose challenges such as ensuring economic opportunities and healthcare access as these nations develop.

Middle Eastern and South Asian Countries Have Notably Younger Demographics

Saudi Arabia, with an average of 32 years, along with Indonesia at 31.2 years, and India at just 29.5 years, showcase some of the youngest populations globally. These nations benefit from high birth rates and lower life expectancy but are also investing in education, healthcare, and economic diversification to prepare for future demographic changes.

The Implication of Aging Populations on the World Economy

Countries with rapidly aging populations are experiencing labor shortages, increased healthcare costs, and shifts in consumer behavior. While developed nations like Japan, Italy, and Germany grapple with maintaining economic growth amid demographic decline, many developing nations face the opposite challenge of providing infrastructure and services for their burgeoning youth populations.

Looking Ahead: Policy Responses to Demographic Shifts

Governments across the globe are implementing a mix of policies—from incentivizing higher fertility to opening borders for immigration—to manage aging populations. Innovations in healthcare, automation, and flexible work arrangements are increasingly vital for nations balancing longevity with economic vitality.

Summary Table: Top 20 Countries by Average Age in 2025

Source: World Population Review, 2025

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