South Africa’s population jumps to 63.5 million in 2026

South Africa’s population has climbed to an estimated 63.52 million people in 2026, according to the latest figures from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).

The country’s population has continued to grow despite a decline in fertility rates, with the latest Mid-Year Population Estimates showing an increase of around 1.2% between 2025 and 2026.

Stats SA estimates that South Africa’s population increased from 42.9 million in 2002 to 63.5 million in 2026, representing an average annual growth rate of about 1.3% over the period.

Gauteng remains the most populated province

Gauteng remains South Africa’s most populous province, with an estimated 16.30 million people living in the province.

That represents approximately 25.7% of the country’s total population.

KwaZulu-Natal is the second-most populous province, with an estimated 12.28 million people, accounting for 19.3% of the national population.

At the other end of the scale, the Northern Cape remains South Africa’s smallest province by population, with approximately 1.38 million people, or 2.2% of the national total.

More than 16 million children

South Africa’s population remains relatively young.

Stats SA estimates that approximately 25.6% of the population is younger than 15, equivalent to around 16.25 million people.

At the same time, approximately 10.7%, or 6.79 million people, are aged 60 and older.

Limpopo has the highest proportion of children under the age of 15, at 31.0%, followed by the Eastern Cape at 29.6%.

Stats SA also notes that the proportion of older people is increasing over time, highlighting the changing demands that population ageing could place on government programmes and services.

Gauteng and Western Cape attract migrants

Migration continues to play an important role in shaping where South Africans live.

For the 2021 to 2026 period, Gauteng is estimated to have experienced the largest inflow of migrants at approximately 1.42 million, followed by the Western Cape at about 500 093.

These movements contribute to changing provincial population sizes and put additional pressure on infrastructure, housing, transport, healthcare, education and other public services.

Women make up the majority

Women account for approximately 50.9% of South Africa’s population, equivalent to around 32.3 million people.

Stats SA estimates life expectancy at birth in 2026 at 68.3 years overall, with a significant difference between men and women.

Life expectancy is estimated at 65.5 years for males and 71.0 years for females.