South Africa
Country statistics · 1990–present
South Africa at a Glance
South Africa is home to 64 million people as of 2024, with a population that is growing rapidly. At a GDP per capita of $8,002, it is a lower-middle-income economy — reflecting an economy in active development. Life expectancy at birth stands at 66.3 years, below the global average.
Population Trends
The total resident population stood at 64 million as of 2024. With a birth rate of 18.5 and a death rate of 9.2 per 1,000 people (2024), the natural growth rate stands at 9.2 per 1,000 — equivalent to roughly 592,000 additional residents each year from natural change alone.
Economy & Development
South Africa is a mid-sized economy, with a total GDP that is projected at $533 billion (2029 IMF projection). At $8,002 per person, it is classified as a lower-middle-income economy — reflecting an economy in active development. Real GDP growth is projected at 1.7% in 2029, representing modest growth. The unemployment rate is projected at 32.1% (2029 IMF projection), indicating high unemployment.
Health & Society
Life expectancy at birth is 66.3 years (2024), below the global average. Current health expenditure per person is $537 (2023), representing limited per-capita healthcare spending. The adult literacy rate stands at 91.2% (2024), reflecting a majority-literate adult population. 78.4% of the population use the internet (2024), indicating strong digital connectivity. Access to safe drinking water reaches 68.0% of the population (2024), representing majority access to safe drinking water, though gaps remain.