As of 2024, Guatemala’s population is estimated at 18.4 million people. Over the last 70 years, the country has experienced one of the fastest population growth rates in Latin America, nearly quintupling since 1950. Looking ahead, Guatemala’s population is projected to continue growing but will gradually stabilize by the late 21st century.
Guatemala Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
In 1950, Guatemala’s population was about 3.1 million. The country experienced rapid growth throughout the second half of the 20th century, surpassing 9 million by 1990 and 14.5 million by 2010. This growth was driven by high fertility rates and declining mortality rates.
By 2024, Guatemala’s population has reached 18.4 million, reflecting steady annual increases over the past two decades.
Population by Decade (1950–2024)
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 3.1 |
| 1960 | 4.1 |
| 1970 | 5.4 |
| 1980 | 6.9 |
| 1990 | 9.0 |
| 2000 | 11.7 |
| 2010 | 14.5 |
| 2020 | 17.4 |
| 2024 | 18.4 |
Guatemala Future Population Projections (2025–2100)
Guatemala is projected to maintain growth throughout the 21st century, though the pace will slow as fertility rates decline. The population is expected to surpass 20 million by 2031, peak at around 27.1 million in the 2070s, and then slowly decline toward 25.9 million by 2100.
Projected Population by Decade (2025–2100)
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 2030 | 20.1 |
| 2040 | 22.6 |
| 2050 | 24.7 |
| 2060 | 26.2 |
| 2070 | 27.0 |
| 2080 | 27.1 |
| 2090 | 26.7 |
| 2100 | 25.9 |
FAQ
Guatemala’s population in 2024 is estimated at 18.4 million.
It increased from 3.1 million in 1950 to 18.4 million in 2024, one of the fastest growth rates in Latin America.
By 2050, Guatemala is projected to have about 24.7 million people.
The population is expected to peak at around 27.1 million in the 2070s before declining gradually.
Declining fertility rates and urbanization are the main drivers of slower growth, similar to trends across Latin America.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.

Recent Comments