France, a nation synonymous with art, culture, and gastronomy, is not only celebrated for its rich history but also for the diversity within its borders. At the heart of this diversity lies the French population, a dynamic tapestry woven with threads of tradition, innovation, and a blend of influences from across the globe.
France's population: history
From 1960 to 2022, France experienced a notable population surge, witnessing an increase from 46.62 million to 67.94 million peopleโa substantial growth of 45.7 percent over the span of 62 years. The highest annual increase was documented in 1963 at 1.41 percent, while the smallest uptick occurred in 2021, registering at 0.26 percent.
Comparatively, on a global scale, the total population of all countries worldwide surged by a significant 162.2 percent during the same period.
Notably, the average age in France demonstrated a steady ascent, rising by 1.27 years from 2012 to 2021โfrom 40.43 to 41.70 years (median value).
The trend of urbanization in France has become increasingly pronounced, with approximately 82 percent of the population residing in larger cities.
Comparatively, on a global scale, the total population of all countries worldwide surged by a significant 162.2 percent during the same period.
Notably, the average age in France demonstrated a steady ascent, rising by 1.27 years from 2012 to 2021โfrom 40.43 to 41.70 years (median value).
The trend of urbanization in France has become increasingly pronounced, with approximately 82 percent of the population residing in larger cities.
Population of France: 2022-2023
As of 2023, the population of France stands at 64,756,584, reflecting a modest growth of 0.2% compared to the preceding year. In 2022, the population was recorded at 64,626,628, marking a slight increase of 0.15% from the figures reported in 2021.
Population of France: density, growth rate, aging
France holds the 23rd position in the global ranking of countries and dependencies by population. The population density in France is reported at 118 individuals per square kilometer or 306 people per square mile.
The demographic landscape in France is marked by a steady annual population growth of 0.3%. Within the age distribution, individuals aged 15 to 64 years constitute the majority, comprising 61.1% of the total population. The younger demographic, aged 0 to 14 years, accounts for 17.2%, while individuals aged 65 and over make up 21.7% of the population.
The demographic landscape in France is marked by a steady annual population growth of 0.3%. Within the age distribution, individuals aged 15 to 64 years constitute the majority, comprising 61.1% of the total population. The younger demographic, aged 0 to 14 years, accounts for 17.2%, while individuals aged 65 and over make up 21.7% of the population.
France's cities by population
Paris, the vibrant capital of France, claims the top spot with a population exceeding 2 million, yet it ranks as the 10th largest city in Europe. Surprisingly, Istanbul takes the lead with nearly 16 million inhabitants. Despite its numerical standing, Paris remains a global tourist magnet, drawing millions of visitors each year and creating a bustling atmosphere that exceeds its population figures. Notably, the city hosts eight of France's top ten universities, enhancing its cultural and intellectual appeal.
Marseille, nestled on the French Riviera, captures the second spot with a population of 862,000. Boasting stunning scenery, a lively nightlife, excellent cuisine, and a picturesque coastline, Marseille stands as the second most populous city in France.
Lyon, an enchanting city in eastern France, follows closely with a population of 513,000. Renowned for its gastronomy, Lyon introduces the world to culinary delights such as quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and coussins de Lyon.
Toulouse, often referred to as La Ville Rose due to its terracotta brick buildings, emerges as another gem with a population of 472,000. Beyond its architectural charm, Toulouse showcases some of France's most charming streets, structures, and natural wonders, including the scenic river Garonne.
Nice, a coastal city with a population of 343,000, holds a unique historical distinction, with human habitation spanning over 400,000 years. Alongside art galleries and museums, Nice features a captivating Old Town and hosts the annual Carnival, making it a must-visit destination on the French coast.
These cities collectively embody the diverse and captivating urban landscape of France, each contributing its unique charm, cultural heritage, and attractions to the rich tapestry of the country.
Marseille, nestled on the French Riviera, captures the second spot with a population of 862,000. Boasting stunning scenery, a lively nightlife, excellent cuisine, and a picturesque coastline, Marseille stands as the second most populous city in France.
Lyon, an enchanting city in eastern France, follows closely with a population of 513,000. Renowned for its gastronomy, Lyon introduces the world to culinary delights such as quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and coussins de Lyon.
Toulouse, often referred to as La Ville Rose due to its terracotta brick buildings, emerges as another gem with a population of 472,000. Beyond its architectural charm, Toulouse showcases some of France's most charming streets, structures, and natural wonders, including the scenic river Garonne.
Nice, a coastal city with a population of 343,000, holds a unique historical distinction, with human habitation spanning over 400,000 years. Alongside art galleries and museums, Nice features a captivating Old Town and hosts the annual Carnival, making it a must-visit destination on the French coast.
These cities collectively embody the diverse and captivating urban landscape of France, each contributing its unique charm, cultural heritage, and attractions to the rich tapestry of the country.
France's population by religion
Religious affiliations in France display a diverse spectrum, with Roman Catholicism being the predominant faith, embraced by 47% of the population. Protestantism and Orthodox Christianity contribute to the religious landscape with 2% and 1%, respectively. A significant portion, 33%, identifies with no specific religious affiliation.
Islam holds a presence in France, with 4% of the population adhering to this faith, while Buddhism and Judaism each account for 2% and 1%, respectively. Other religions collectively make up 1% of the religious landscape. Additionally, 9% of the population remains undeclared about their religious beliefs.
Islam holds a presence in France, with 4% of the population adhering to this faith, while Buddhism and Judaism each account for 2% and 1%, respectively. Other religions collectively make up 1% of the religious landscape. Additionally, 9% of the population remains undeclared about their religious beliefs.
Muslim population in France
Following the conquest of much of the Iberian Peninsula, Umayyad Muslim forces extended their reach into present-day southern France. However, their advance was halted in 732 AD at the Battle of Tours, where the Frankish Christian army, led by Charles Martel, decisively defeated them. This significant event thwarted the potential Islamization of Western Europe. Subsequently, during another incursion, Muslims established the fortress of Fraxinetum.
In contemporary France, the majority of Muslims adhere to the Sunni denomination and are of foreign origin. There are also notable minority communities practicing Shia Islam, Ahmadiyya, and some identifying as non-denominational Muslims. The French overseas region of Mayotte has a predominant Muslim population.
Surveying the religious practices of Muslims in France, a study involving 536 participants revealed that 39% observed Islam's five daily prayers in 2008, marking a gradual increase from 31% in 1994. Mosque attendance for Friday prayers rose to 23% in 2008, compared to 16% in 1994, while Ramadan observance increased to 70% in 2008, up from 60% in 1994. Furthermore, the study noted a decline in alcohol consumption, dropping from 39% to 34%.
In contemporary France, the majority of Muslims adhere to the Sunni denomination and are of foreign origin. There are also notable minority communities practicing Shia Islam, Ahmadiyya, and some identifying as non-denominational Muslims. The French overseas region of Mayotte has a predominant Muslim population.
Surveying the religious practices of Muslims in France, a study involving 536 participants revealed that 39% observed Islam's five daily prayers in 2008, marking a gradual increase from 31% in 1994. Mosque attendance for Friday prayers rose to 23% in 2008, compared to 16% in 1994, while Ramadan observance increased to 70% in 2008, up from 60% in 1994. Furthermore, the study noted a decline in alcohol consumption, dropping from 39% to 34%.
Jewish population in France
The history of Jews in France spans back to the Early Middle Ages, establishing the country as a significant center of Jewish learning during that time. However, this history also bears the weight of persecution, including expulsions and subsequent returns. The French Revolution in the late 18th century marked a transformative period when France became the first European country to emancipate its Jewish population. Yet, despite this milestone, cycles of antisemitism persisted, reaching peaks during events such as the Dreyfus affair in the 1890s and the dark period of Nazi occupation and the Vichy regime in the 1940s.
Before 1919, the majority of French Jews resided in Paris, with many priding themselves on full assimilation into French culture, constituting an affluent subgroup. A more traditional Jewish presence existed in Alsace-Lorraine, which was under German control from 1871 to 1918. The early 20th century witnessed an influx of Jewish refugees and immigrants from Russia and Eastern Europe, altering the character of French Judaism in the 1920s and 1930s. These newcomers were less inclined towards assimilation and often aligned with causes such as Zionism, the Popular Front, and communism.
World War II brought the collaboration of the Vichy government with Nazi occupiers, resulting in the deportation of a significant number of French and foreign Jews to concentration camps. By the war's end, 25% of the Jewish population in France had perished in the Holocaust, a relatively lower proportion compared to other countries under Nazi occupation.
In the 21st century, France boasts the largest Jewish population in Europe and the third-largest globally, following Israel and the United States. The estimated 480,000โ550,000-strong Jewish community is concentrated in metropolitan areas such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Strasbourg, and Toulouse. The contemporary French Jewish demographic is predominantly composed of Sephardi and Mizrahi North African Jews, many of whom or their parents immigrated from former French colonies in the 1950s and 1960s.
Before 1919, the majority of French Jews resided in Paris, with many priding themselves on full assimilation into French culture, constituting an affluent subgroup. A more traditional Jewish presence existed in Alsace-Lorraine, which was under German control from 1871 to 1918. The early 20th century witnessed an influx of Jewish refugees and immigrants from Russia and Eastern Europe, altering the character of French Judaism in the 1920s and 1930s. These newcomers were less inclined towards assimilation and often aligned with causes such as Zionism, the Popular Front, and communism.
World War II brought the collaboration of the Vichy government with Nazi occupiers, resulting in the deportation of a significant number of French and foreign Jews to concentration camps. By the war's end, 25% of the Jewish population in France had perished in the Holocaust, a relatively lower proportion compared to other countries under Nazi occupation.
In the 21st century, France boasts the largest Jewish population in Europe and the third-largest globally, following Israel and the United States. The estimated 480,000โ550,000-strong Jewish community is concentrated in metropolitan areas such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Strasbourg, and Toulouse. The contemporary French Jewish demographic is predominantly composed of Sephardi and Mizrahi North African Jews, many of whom or their parents immigrated from former French colonies in the 1950s and 1960s.
Christian population in France
Catholicism has played a significant role in France's religious history, with roots reaching back to the 2nd century when Early Christianity gained a foothold among the Gauls. Irenaeus, the bishop of Lugdunum (Lyon), chronicled the persecution in Lyon in 177, emphasizing the establishment of the Gaulish church in communion with the Bishop of Rome. With the Edict of Thessalonica in 380, Emperor Theodosius I declared Nicene Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire, marking the beginning of Roman Catholicism as the state religion in France.
The Frankish invasion during the Migration Period saw the unification of Gaulish tribes into the Kingdom of France by Clovis I. After his baptism in 496, Roman Catholicism became the state religion, making the Franks unique among Germanic peoples for directly converting to Roman Catholicism without adopting Arianism first.
In 800, Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne, solidifying the intertwining of political and religious foundations that characterized medieval European Christian civilization. Throughout the Middle Ages, France earned the moniker "eldest daughter of the church." However, the French Revolution (1789โ1799) brought about a policy of dechristianization, leading to widespread persecution and the destruction of religious institutions. Subsequent political changes alternated between state-endorsed Roman Catholicism and periods of secularism, such as during the Third French Republic (1870โ1940).
A 2016 study estimated that Catholics constituted 53.8% of the French population, with 23.5% considered engaged Catholics and 17% practicing regularly. The evolution of religious policies in France has shaped the contemporary landscape, marked by a diverse array of religious affiliations.
Protestantism, a minority in France, has seen a rise from 2.1% of the population in 2012 to 3.1% in 2017. The variety of Protestant denominations includes Calvinists (Huguenots), evangelical Protestants, Lutherans, and others. Recent years have witnessed new Evangelical churches being constructed regularly.
Eastern Orthodoxy in France is represented by various communities, primarily consisting of ethnic Greeks, Russians, Romanians, Bulgarians, Serbs, Ukrainians, and Georgians. Different Eastern Orthodox churches operate independently, with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of France being the oldest.
Oriental Orthodoxy, including communities of Armenians, Copts, Ethiopians, and Syriacs, is also present in France, with the French Coptic Orthodox Church being the largest.
Other Christian groups, such as the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), and smaller sects, contribute to the religious diversity in France. The country's history reflects a complex interplay between religious traditions and secular governance, shaping the multifaceted tapestry of religious life in contemporary France.
The Frankish invasion during the Migration Period saw the unification of Gaulish tribes into the Kingdom of France by Clovis I. After his baptism in 496, Roman Catholicism became the state religion, making the Franks unique among Germanic peoples for directly converting to Roman Catholicism without adopting Arianism first.
In 800, Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne, solidifying the intertwining of political and religious foundations that characterized medieval European Christian civilization. Throughout the Middle Ages, France earned the moniker "eldest daughter of the church." However, the French Revolution (1789โ1799) brought about a policy of dechristianization, leading to widespread persecution and the destruction of religious institutions. Subsequent political changes alternated between state-endorsed Roman Catholicism and periods of secularism, such as during the Third French Republic (1870โ1940).
A 2016 study estimated that Catholics constituted 53.8% of the French population, with 23.5% considered engaged Catholics and 17% practicing regularly. The evolution of religious policies in France has shaped the contemporary landscape, marked by a diverse array of religious affiliations.
Protestantism, a minority in France, has seen a rise from 2.1% of the population in 2012 to 3.1% in 2017. The variety of Protestant denominations includes Calvinists (Huguenots), evangelical Protestants, Lutherans, and others. Recent years have witnessed new Evangelical churches being constructed regularly.
Eastern Orthodoxy in France is represented by various communities, primarily consisting of ethnic Greeks, Russians, Romanians, Bulgarians, Serbs, Ukrainians, and Georgians. Different Eastern Orthodox churches operate independently, with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of France being the oldest.
Oriental Orthodoxy, including communities of Armenians, Copts, Ethiopians, and Syriacs, is also present in France, with the French Coptic Orthodox Church being the largest.
Other Christian groups, such as the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), and smaller sects, contribute to the religious diversity in France. The country's history reflects a complex interplay between religious traditions and secular governance, shaping the multifaceted tapestry of religious life in contemporary France.
Black and white population in France
Utilizing data derived from migration patterns, scholars suggest that the demographic composition in France may include a population ranging from 3 to 5 million individuals of African descent. However, it's important to note that African Americans in France constitute a minority within the broader French population and are not explicitly accounted for in official statistical records. The remainder - white.
Asian population in France
As of 2020, the estimated population of ethnic Khmers in France is around 80,000, positioning the community as one of the largest in the Cambodian diaspora. The presence of Cambodians in France dates back to well before the Vietnam War and the subsequent Indochina refugee crisis, setting it apart from similar communities in North America and Australia.
The initial wave of Cambodian immigration to France commenced in the latter part of the 19th century during Cambodia's time as a French protectorate. The early migrants mainly included students and workers from the country's elite class. While a significant number of Cambodians sought refuge in France due to the upheavals in Indochina during the latter half of the 20th century, their arrival was somewhat later compared to other Indochinese immigrant groups. While some Cambodians managed to escape the Khmer Rouge takeover in 1975 with French assistance, a larger influx occurred in the 1980s following the collapse of the regime and the end of the Cambodian genocide.
The Chinese community forms the second-largest Asian group in France after the Turks, with an estimated population of around 600,000 as of 2017. Chinese migration to France traces back to the early 1900s, with the initial migrants being traders involved in the leather and Chinese ceramics trade, primarily from the Wenzhou region. During World War I, the French Empire recruited a few thousand Chinese laborers for wartime efforts, and some remained in France post-war, settling in the established Chinese quarter of Paris. The Chinese immigration flow continued during the 1930s and 1940s, and a significant increase occurred after the Vietnam War, with the arrival of ethnic Chinese escaping persecution in Vietnam and Cambodia in 1975. The Wenzhou region of China also contributed to a larger influx of Chinese immigrants.
In Paris, the 13th arrondissement is home to the Quartier Asiatique, the city's largest and most significant community for the Asian population. Originally an ethnic Vietnamese quarter, it has become predominantly Chinese over time, particularly as the former community assimilated into French society. Additionally, Belleville in Paris and the historical Chinese quarter in the 3rd arrondissement are notable locations hosting significant Chinese communities.
The initial wave of Cambodian immigration to France commenced in the latter part of the 19th century during Cambodia's time as a French protectorate. The early migrants mainly included students and workers from the country's elite class. While a significant number of Cambodians sought refuge in France due to the upheavals in Indochina during the latter half of the 20th century, their arrival was somewhat later compared to other Indochinese immigrant groups. While some Cambodians managed to escape the Khmer Rouge takeover in 1975 with French assistance, a larger influx occurred in the 1980s following the collapse of the regime and the end of the Cambodian genocide.
The Chinese community forms the second-largest Asian group in France after the Turks, with an estimated population of around 600,000 as of 2017. Chinese migration to France traces back to the early 1900s, with the initial migrants being traders involved in the leather and Chinese ceramics trade, primarily from the Wenzhou region. During World War I, the French Empire recruited a few thousand Chinese laborers for wartime efforts, and some remained in France post-war, settling in the established Chinese quarter of Paris. The Chinese immigration flow continued during the 1930s and 1940s, and a significant increase occurred after the Vietnam War, with the arrival of ethnic Chinese escaping persecution in Vietnam and Cambodia in 1975. The Wenzhou region of China also contributed to a larger influx of Chinese immigrants.
In Paris, the 13th arrondissement is home to the Quartier Asiatique, the city's largest and most significant community for the Asian population. Originally an ethnic Vietnamese quarter, it has become predominantly Chinese over time, particularly as the former community assimilated into French society. Additionally, Belleville in Paris and the historical Chinese quarter in the 3rd arrondissement are notable locations hosting significant Chinese communities.
Indian population in France
Around 65,000 individuals from India are currently living as immigrants in France.
Arab population in France
Estimates from non-scientific sources suggest that approximately 5 to 6 million individuals of Maghrebin origin reside in France, constituting roughly 7โ9% of the total population in the metropolitan area.
Moroccan population in France
Moroccan immigrants constitute the second-largest immigrant group in France, following the Algerians and surpassing the Portuguese, with a population of 836,400 individuals, as per INSEE data for 2022. The descendants of Moroccan immigrants are estimated to be around 1 million.
France's population by ethnicity
According to certain estimations, it is suggested that approximately 51 million individuals, constituting 85% of the total French population, are categorized as white. Additionally, around six million people, accounting for 10% of the total population, are of North African descent. The black population is estimated to be two million, representing 3.3% of the total population, while approximately one million individuals, or 1.7% of the population, are of Asian origin.
France immigrant population
The French National Institute of Statistics (INSEE) reported that the 2021 census identified nearly 7 million immigrants (foreign-born people) in France. This population represents approximately 10.3% of the total population in the country.
Germany vs France population
The population figures provided are for Germany and France, with Germany having a population of 79,903,481 and France having 68,084,217 (for metropolitan France and five overseas regions). Specifically, the population of metropolitan France is reported to be 62,814,233.
Population in France vs UK
The population figures for France and the United Kingdom are 68,084,217 and 66,971,000, respectively.
