Population of South Africa 2026
64٬013٬545
Population now (estimate)
1٬221٬037
Area (km²)
52
Density (per km²)
0.9%
Annual growth rate
64٬013٬545
people — live estimate
◷ computed from the 2026 figure and growth rate
The population of South Africa in 2026 is about 64,013,545 people, according to the latest United Nations estimates. It grows at an annual rate of about 0.9%.
South Africa covers about 1,221,037 km², with Pretoria as its capital, giving a population density of around 52 people per km².
South Africa is among the most populous countries in its region, with tens of millions of inhabitants. Its population grows at a moderate pace.