Cambodia Population 2026 | LIVE Population Clock

Cambodia Population 2026 Reaches 18.05 Million with Moderating Growth

Cambodia’s population stands at approximately 18.05 million in 2026. This figure reflects steady but slowing expansion in a country still recovering from the demographic scars of the late 20th century. The population matters because it shapes labor supply, infrastructure needs, and economic potential in one of Southeast Asia’s faster-growing economies.

Recent trends show annual growth around 1.1-1.2 percent, down from higher rates in prior decades as fertility declines. Cambodia contributes modestly to global totals while facing pressures from urbanization, a youthful workforce, and gradual aging. The primary trend shaping its future involves balancing a demographic dividend with rising dependency as the population matures.

Globally, Cambodia’s demographics highlight patterns common in lower-middle-income nations transitioning toward lower fertility and longer lifespans. Its experience offers insights into post-conflict recovery and policy responses to shifting age structures.

Current Population Overview

Cambodia’s mid-2026 population reaches about 18.05 million, according to United Nations estimates. The country ranks around 73rd globally in population size, representing roughly 0.22 percent of the world’s total.

Population density stands near 102 people per square kilometer across 176,520 square kilometers of land. This average masks significant variation, with denser settlement in the plains and river valleys. Urbanization has advanced, with about 26.9 percent of residents living in urban areas, or roughly 4.86 million people.

Key indicators include a crude birth rate of around 19-20 per 1,000 and a death rate of 6-7 per 1,000. Net migration remains negative, with more people leaving than arriving, often for work opportunities abroad. These dynamics produce moderate growth that supports economic expansion while straining urban services.

Historical Population Trends

Cambodia’s population history features sharp disruptions. Pre-1970s estimates placed the total near 7 million, with high fertility sustaining growth. The Khmer Rouge period (1975-1979) caused massive losses through violence, famine, and displacement, reducing numbers significantly and skewing age and sex structures.

Recovery followed in the 1980s and 1990s with a fertility rebound and improved survival rates. By 2000, the population had grown to around 12-13 million. The 2019 census and subsequent projections documented continued expansion, more than doubling since 1990 in response to stability and health gains.

Major turning points include the post-1979 baby boom, economic liberalization in the 1990s that supported family formation, and accelerating urbanization after 2000. These shifts transformed Cambodia from a predominantly rural, high-fertility society to one with emerging urban concentrations and moderating growth.

Population Growth Drivers

Fertility remains the dominant driver, though the total fertility rate has fallen to around 2.5 children per woman in recent years from much higher levels decades ago. This decline stems from increased education, especially for women, greater access to contraception, and changing economic incentives.

Mortality improvements contribute positively through rising life expectancy, now around 70-71 years at birth. Infant mortality has declined substantially, though gaps persist between urban and rural areas. Public health investments in vaccination and sanitation have supported these gains.

Net migration acts as a drag, with emigration of working-age adults seeking employment in Thailand and elsewhere. Remittances help offset some effects, but brain drain poses challenges. Government policies emphasize family planning and reproductive health within the National Population Policy framework, aiming to balance growth with sustainable development. Economic growth and poverty reduction have indirectly lowered desired family sizes.

Population by Age and Gender

Cambodia maintains a youthful profile, with a median age of around 26 years. Children under 15 comprise a significant share, though declining as fertility falls. The working-age population (15-64) forms the largest group, offering a demographic dividend that boosts labor supply and economic productivity.

Older adults (65+) represent a growing minority, currently around 6-7 percent, but projected to rise. The total dependency ratio hovers near 56 dependents per 100 working-age individuals, relatively favorable but shifting upward over time. Youth dependency is falling while old-age dependency increases.

Gender distribution shows a slight female majority overall, reflecting higher male mortality in some age groups and historical imbalances. Sex ratios at birth are near normal, with variations by region and migration patterns.

Age Distribution (Approximate 2026 Shares)

• 0-14 years: ~27%
• 15-64 years: ~66%
• 65+ years: ~7%

Population by Religion, Ethnicity, and Language

The ethnic Khmer dominate, comprising over 95 percent of the population. This group shapes national culture and identity. Significant minorities include Cham (around 2.4 percent), ethnic Chinese (1.5 percent), and smaller indigenous highland communities.

Religion aligns closely with ethnicity. Theravada Buddhism serves as the state religion and is practiced by roughly 96-97 percent of the population. Islam, primarily among Cham communities, accounts for about 2 percent. Christianity and other faiths form small shares. Buddhism influences social norms, holidays, and community structures.

Khmer is the official language, spoken by the vast majority. Minority languages include Cham, Chinese dialects, and indigenous tongues. Linguistic homogeneity supports national cohesion, while bilingualism in border areas reflects cross-border ties.

Urbanization and Regional Population Distribution

Urbanization accelerates, driven by economic opportunities in manufacturing, services, and tourism. About one-quarter of Cambodians now live in cities, up from lower shares in earlier decades. Phnom Penh dominates as the primate city with over 2 million residents, concentrating economic activity and infrastructure.

Other major centers include Siem Reap, Battambang, and emerging hubs like Poipet. Rural areas still house the majority, with agriculture central to livelihoods. Internal migration from the countryside to cities and from provinces to the capital creates both opportunities and pressures on housing and services.

Regional differences are pronounced. The Tonle Sap and Mekong lowlands support higher densities and agricultural productivity. Highland and border provinces remain more sparsely populated with distinct ethnic compositions.

Largest Cities (Approximate Recent Estimates)

• Phnom Penh: 2.26 million
• Siem Reap: ~350,000
• Battambang: ~180,000

Economic, Social, Environmental, and Political Impacts

The large working-age cohort fuels labor-intensive industries such as garments, construction, and agriculture. Yet skills gaps and youth underemployment require ongoing education investments. Remittances from emigrants bolster household incomes and national foreign exchange.

Housing demand surges in urban areas, challenging affordable supply and planning. Education expansion has improved literacy and enrollment, influencing fertility and workforce quality. Healthcare systems expand to address both infectious diseases and rising non-communicable conditions among aging segments.

Infrastructure strains under population and economic growth, particularly in transport, energy, and water. Environmental pressures include deforestation, water management around the Tonle Sap, and climate vulnerability in low-lying areas, which may drive future displacement.

Politically, population dynamics inform policies on youth employment, social protection, and regional development. Social factors like gender roles and family structures evolve with urbanization. Legal frameworks support family planning while upholding reproductive rights.

Future Population Outlook

Projections indicate continued growth to around 20-22 million by 2050, with momentum slowing thereafter. By 2030, the total should approach 19 million under medium scenarios. Long-term estimates to 2100 hover near 22-23 million, assuming sustained fertility decline.

Aging will intensify, with the 60+ share rising sharply and old-age dependency increasing. Urban growth will concentrate further in Phnom Penh and secondary cities. Migration patterns may shift with regional economic integration.

Population Projections (Millions, Medium Variant)

• 2030: ~18.4-19
• 2050: ~20-22
• 2100: ~22-23

Challenges include sustaining the demographic dividend before aging accelerates, managing urban expansion, and adapting to climate risks. Opportunities lie in investing in education, health, and productive jobs to harness human capital for sustained development. Long-term sustainability depends on proactive policies addressing dependency shifts and equitable regional growth.

Key Takeaways

Cambodia’s population trajectory reflects successful recovery and transition toward lower growth and gradual aging. The coming decades offer a window to convert demographic momentum into lasting prosperity through targeted investments in human capital and infrastructure. Balancing urban opportunities with rural resilience will determine the inclusivity of future development.

FAQ

What is the current population of Cambodia in 2026?

Cambodia’s population reached approximately 18.05 million in 2026. This total reflects moderate annual growth of around 1.1 percent amid declining fertility.

How fast is Cambodia’s population growing?

Annual growth has slowed to roughly 1.1-1.2 percent. Fertility decline and net emigration moderate expansion compared to earlier decades.

What is the fertility rate in Cambodia?

The total fertility rate stands at 2.5 children per woman. This level has declined steadily from higher figures in previous generations due to socioeconomic changes.

What is Cambodia’s life expectancy?

Average life expectancy at birth is around 70-71 years. Improvements in health services have driven gains, though urban-rural disparities remain.

How urbanized is Cambodia?

Approximately 27 percent of the population lives in urban areas. Phnom Penh anchors this trend as the dominant economic center.

What are the main ethnic groups in Cambodia?

The ethnic Khmer form over 95 percent of the population. Cham, Chinese, and indigenous groups make up the rest.

What is the median age in Cambodia?

The median age is around 26 years, indicating a still youthful population with a sizable working-age cohort.

How does Cambodia’s population compare regionally?

Cambodia has a smaller population than Vietnam or Thailand, but shares similar trends of fertility decline and urbanization with other Southeast Asian nations.

What are the major demographic challenges for Cambodia?

Key issues include managing urbanization, preparing for population aging, addressing skills needs in the workforce, and mitigating climate-related risks.

What is Cambodia’s population projected to be in 2050?

Projections suggest 20-22 million by 2050, with slower growth and a larger elderly share than today.