Europe & Central Asia (excluding high income) Population 2026
As of 2025, the population of Europe & Central Asia (excluding high income) stands at 250,281,521. This World Bank aggregate encompasses lower-middle and upper-middle income economies in the region, reflecting a diverse demographic landscape. The region's population has grown at a one-year rate of 0.63% and a 10-year average of 0.50%.
Population Trend
Overview
The Europe & Central Asia (excluding high income) region includes a mix of post-Soviet states, Balkan countries, and parts of Central Asia, with a total population of 250.3 million in 2025. The one-year growth rate of 0.63% is slightly above the 10-year average of 0.50%, indicating a modest acceleration in recent years. This growth is driven by higher fertility and younger populations in Central Asian countries, while Eastern European nations often experience stagnation or decline due to low birth rates and emigration.
Over the past decade, the region has maintained a steady average annual growth of 0.50%, translating to an increase of roughly 12 million people since 2015. The current growth rate of 0.63% suggests a slight uptick, possibly due to improved economic conditions or demographic momentum in certain subregions. However, the region still faces long-term challenges such as aging populations in some areas and outmigration to higher-income European countries.
Compared to global averages, the region's growth is moderate. The population is concentrated in a few large countries, with Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine accounting for a significant share. The exclusion of high-income economies (e.g., Western Europe) means this aggregate reflects countries with lower GDP per capita, where demographic transitions are at varying stages. Overall, the region's population dynamics are shaped by a combination of natural increase and net migration, with the 0.63% rate representing a balance of these factors.