According to the 2023 census report by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), Balochistan has experienced the highest population growth rate in Pakistan, with a 3.2% increase since the last census. In contrast, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) had the lowest growth rate at 2.38%.
Overall, Pakistan’s population grew by 2.55% in 2023. If this trend continues, the country’s population could double by 2050. Pakistan’s current growth rate is the highest in the region, and only 27 countries globally have a faster rate, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The 2023 census reveals that Pakistan’s population now stands at 241,499,431, up from just 33,740,167 in 1951, reflecting a more than sevenfold increase in 77 years.
Punjab remains the most populous province, making up 52.9% of the total population. However, its share has been declining since 1951. Balochistan, while having the lowest population percentage, has seen steady growth, rising from 3.5% in 1951 to 6.2% in 2023.
The report also highlighted population density trends. Islamabad, the federal capital, has the highest density at 2,609 persons per square kilometer, followed by Punjab with 622 persons per square kilometer. Karachi Division is the most densely populated area in the country, with 5,779 persons per square kilometer.
In contrast, Balochistan’s vast regions, such as Rakhshan, Kalat, Zhob, Makran, and Sibi, remain sparsely populated, with densities ranging from 11 to 38 persons per square kilometer.
This census data offers valuable insights into the distribution and density of Pakistan’s population, which are essential for effective planning and development.