South Africa: Percent urban population

The latest value from 2025 is 63.82 percent, an increase from 63.69 percent in 2024. In comparison, the world average is 62.08 percent, based on data from 196 countries. Historically, the average for South Africa from 1960 to 2025 is 54.36 percent. The minimum value, 46.69 percent, was reached in 1960 while the maximum of 63.82 percent was recorded in 2025. See the global rankings for that indicator or use the country comparator to compare trends over time.

The data show the percent of the total population that lives in urban areas for South Africa and other countries.

Definition: Urban population refers to people living in urban areas as defined by national statistical offices. The data are collected and smoothed by United Nations Population Division.