Verified Facts
The population of Jordan is primarily composed of Arabs, with a mix of ethnic and religious groups, and a growing urban population, totaling around 11.4 million people.
Quick Facts
Population Overview
The population of Jordan has been steadily increasing over the years, with a growth rate of approximately 1.3%. This growth can be attributed to a combination of natural increase and migration, particularly from neighboring countries such as Syria and Iraq. Jordan's population is relatively young, with a median age of 22.9 years, and the majority of the population resides in urban areas, with around 80.3% living in cities. The country's population density is approximately 129 people per square kilometer, which is relatively high compared to other countries in the region.
In terms of urbanization, Jordan has experienced significant growth in recent years, with many people moving to cities such as Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid in search of better economic opportunities. This has led to an increase in the urban population, with many rural areas experiencing a decline in population. The government has implemented various initiatives to address the challenges associated with urbanization, including the development of new infrastructure and the provision of social services.
Jordan has also been affected by migration patterns, with many people fleeing conflict in neighboring countries and seeking refuge in Jordan. This has placed a strain on the country's resources, but the government has made efforts to provide support to refugees and to integrate them into Jordanian society.
Ethnic Groups
| Ethnic Group | Percentage | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arab | 98% | Nationwide | Predominant ethnic group |
| Circassian | 1% | North | Originally from the Caucasus region |
| Armenian | 0.5% | Urban areas | Mainly found in cities such as Amman |
| Chechen | 0.2% | North | Originally from the Caucasus region |
| Kurdish | 0.1% | North | Small minority group |
| Bedouin | 0.1% | Rural areas | Traditional nomadic group |
The ethnic groups in Jordan are relatively diverse, with the majority of the population identifying as Arab. However, there are also smaller minority groups, such as the Circassian, Armenian, Chechen, Kurdish, and Bedouin communities. These groups have their own unique cultural and linguistic traditions, and they contribute to the rich diversity of Jordanian society. Despite their differences, the various ethnic groups in Jordan generally coexist peacefully, and the government has implemented policies to promote social cohesion and inclusivity.
Languages
- Arabic is the official language of Jordan and is spoken by the majority of the population.
- English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and among the educated population.
- French is also spoken by some Jordanians, particularly those who have studied abroad.
- Kurdish and Circassian languages are spoken by smaller minority groups.
- There are also several dialects of Arabic spoken in Jordan, including the Jordanian dialect, which is distinct from standard Arabic.
Religions
| Religion | Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Islam | 93% | Predominant religion, mostly Sunni |
| Christianity | 6% | Mainly found in urban areas |
| Druze | 0.5% | Small minority group |
| Baha'i | 0.2% | Small minority group |
| Other | 0.3% | Includes various smaller minority groups |
The majority of the population in Jordan identifies as Muslim, with around 93% of the population practicing Islam. The majority of Muslims in Jordan are Sunni, although there are also smaller Shia and Druze communities. Christianity is also present in Jordan, with around 6% of the population identifying as Christian. The country has a long history of religious tolerance, and the government has implemented policies to promote interfaith understanding and cooperation.
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Percentage | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 | 33.4% | High youth population, significant investment in education |
| 15-24 | 20.5% | Large young adult population, potential for economic growth |
| 25-54 | 38.4% | Working-age population, significant contribution to economy |
| 55-64 | 5.3% | Aging population, potential strain on healthcare and social services |
| 65+ | 2.4% | Aging population, potential strain on healthcare and social services |
Urbanization & Major Cities
- The urban population in Jordan is around 80.3%, with the majority of people living in cities such as Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid.
- Amman is the capital and largest city in Jordan, with a population of over 4 million people.
- Zarqa is the second-largest city in Jordan, with a population of over 1 million people.
- Irbid is a major city in northern Jordan, with a population of over 500,000 people.
- The fastest-growing cities in Jordan are those in the north, such as Mafraq and Ramtha, which are experiencing significant growth due to their proximity to the Syrian border and the influx of refugees.