Generation Z, commonly defined as people born between 1997 and 2012, now represents one of the largest and most influential demographic groups in the world. Recent demographic estimates based on UN population data show that Asia and Africa dominate the global Gen Z population rankings due to their large overall populations and youthful age structures.
India leads the world with an estimated 377 million Gen Z citizens, followed by China with around 246 million. Indonesia ranks third with approximately 69 million, while the United States holds fourth place with about 66 million young people belonging to the generation.
In South Asia and Africa, youthful populations continue to drive rapid demographic growth. Pakistan has an estimated 60 million Gen Z residents, while Nigeria follows closely with around 58 million. Other countries with large Gen Z populations include Brazil, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Mexico.
Additional nations in the global top 20 include Philippines, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Vietnam, Egypt, Turkey, Iran, Russia, Thailand, Japan, and Germany. Experts say the size of the Gen Z population is expected to have major impacts on global labor markets, technology adoption, education systems, and consumer trends in the coming decades.
