Iran has undergone one of the most dramatic population transformations of the past century. In 1950, the country’s population was just 16.5 million, but rapid growth in the second half of the 20th century saw numbers soar. By 2024, Iran’s population has reached 91.6 million, more than five times its 1950 size. Projections suggest that Iran’s population will peak around mid-century at over 101 million, before beginning a gradual decline toward the year 2100.
Iran Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
Iran’s population history reflects post-war expansion, demographic transition, and modern urbanization:
- 1950–1979: The population grew from 16.5 million in 1950 to 38.4 million by 1979 — more than doubling in under 30 years.
- 1980s: Growth accelerated, with the population surpassing 50 million by 1986.
- 1990s–2000s: Iran added nearly 40 million people within just two decades, reaching 70 million by 2004.
- 2010–2024: Growth continued but at a slower pace. As of 2024, the population is 91.6 million.
This rapid growth has been driven by high fertility rates in earlier decades, followed by urbanization, improvements in healthcare, and shifts toward lower fertility since the 1990s.
Iran Future Population Projections (2025–2100)
According to long-term forecasts, Iran’s demographic trajectory is expected to stabilize mid-century before beginning a slow decline:
- 2025: 92.4 million
- 2030: 95.5 million
- 2040: 99.5 million
- 2050: 101.9 million (projected peak)
- 2075: 93.8 million
- 2100: 80.0 million
This means Iran will add about 10 million people between 2024 and 2050, but then gradually lose more than 20 million by 2100. The decline is largely attributed to lower fertility rates, an aging population, and shifting migration patterns.
FAQ
Iran’s population in 2024 is estimated at 91.6 million people.
Iran is expected to reach its peak of around 101.9 million in 2050.
The decline is due to low fertility rates, longer life expectancy, and fewer births compared to deaths in the second half of the century.
Between 1950 and 2000, Iran’s population grew from 16.5 million to 66.4 million, quadrupling in just 50 years.
By 2100, Iran’s population is projected to fall to about 80 million, a drop of over 20 million from its mid-century peak.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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