Uzbekistan’s population tops 38.2 million as men hold slim majority

As of January 1, 2026, Uzbekistan’s total population reached 38.2367 million. Of this figure, 19.2577 million were men and 18.9790 million were women, giving men a slight majority. Men accounted for 50.4 percent of the population, while women made up 49.6 percent.

The data also show a continued shift toward urban living. The number of people residing in cities stood at 19.4717 million, compared with 18.7650 million living in rural areas. The urban population exceeded the rural population by more than 706,700 people.

Marriage and divorce statistics for the reporting period indicate that 267,100 marriages were officially registered nationwide, while 46,900 divorces were recorded. The oldest groom was 91 years old and the oldest bride was 85. According to the committee, women most commonly married between the ages of 20 and 30.

Migration figures point to a net outflow of population. During the period under review, 1,159 people moved to Uzbekistan from abroad, while 10,117 residents emigrated.

The statistics come amid broader discussions on urbanization trends in the country. Earlier reports noted that Uzbekistan is close to matching Kazakhstan in terms of urbanization levels and could become a regional leader by 2050.

Globally, urbanization has accelerated over the past decades. While only about 20 percent of the world’s population lived in large cities in the mid-20th century, the share rose to 44.8 percent by 2025. By 2050, nearly half of the world’s population – 48.3 percent – is projected to live in megacities.

Demographic data released earlier also showed a decline in birth rates. Between January and September last year, 664,600 children were born in Uzbekistan – 52,300 fewer than in the same period of 2023 and 29,300 fewer than in the first nine months of 2024.