Demographics 1 Oct 2026

Over-65s now outnumber under-5s worldwide

For the first time on record, people aged 65+ outnumber children under 5.

About 852 million people were 65 and over in 2025 (10.5% of the world), while under-5s made up less than 10%. The U.S. Census Bureau projects the 65+ group will reach about 2 billion by 2060.

• 65+ in 2025: 852 million (10.5% of the world)
• Projected 65+ by 2060: ~2 billion, nearly 1 in 5 (19.6%)