Europe is a big continent with a large population. As of 2022, Europe’s population is estimated to be 742 million people. This population is spread out over 50 countries, making Europe the third most populous continent after Asia and Africa.
But the concentration of Europe’s population is not evenly distributed. There are large populations in some countries and much smaller populations in others. So, which European countries are the most populous?
The Top 10 Most Populated Countries in Europe
1. Russia – 144 million people
2. Germany – 83 million people
3. Turkey – 82 million people
4. United Kingdom – 66 million people
5. France – 66 million people
6. Italy – 60 million people
7. Spain – 46 million people
8. Ukraine – 41 million people
9. Poland – 38 million people
10. Kazakhstan – 19 million people
Russia
Home to 144 million people, Russia is by far the most populous country in Europe. It covers a large area of land, spanning over 17 million square kilometers. That makes it the largest country in the world with a population density of 8.4 people per square kilometer. And with the recent addition of Crimea, Russia’s population is only going to grow.
Germany
With a population of 83 million, Germany is the second most populous country in Europe. It’s located in the center of the continent and has a population density of 232 people per square kilometer.
Turkey
Turkey is the third most populous country in Europe with a population of 82 million. It’s located in both Europe and Asia, making it the only country on this list that is considered to be on two continents. It has a population density of 103 people per square kilometer and is the largest country in the world that is majority Muslim.
United Kingdom
With a population of 66 million, the United Kingdom is the fourth most populous country in Europe. It’s located off the northwestern coast of the continent and consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It has a population density of 273 people per square kilometer.
France
France is the fifth most populous country in Europe with a population of 66 million. It’s located in the western part of the continent and has a population density of 118 people per square kilometer.
Italy
With a population of 60 million, Italy is the sixth most populous country in Europe. It’s located in the southern part of the continent and has a population density of 200 people per square kilometer.
Spain
Located in the southwestern corner of Europe, Spain is the seventh most populous country in Europe with a population of 46 million. It has a population density of 92 people per square kilometer.
Ukraine
The eighth most populous country in Europe is Ukraine with a population of 41 million. It’s located in the eastern part of the continent and has a population density of 73 people per square kilometer.
Poland
Poland is the ninth most populous country in Europe with a population of 38 million. It’s located in the central part of the continent and has a population density of 122 people per square kilometer.
Kazakhstan
Rounding out the top 10 is Kazakhstan with a population of 19 million. It’s located in Central Asia and is the largest landlocked country in the world. It has a population density of 6 people per square kilometer.
These countries have the highest populations in Europe. With a continent that is home to over 50 countries, there is a lot of variation in population size. But these 10 countries stand out as the most populous.
Why is Europe Heavily Populated?
Europe’s high population is largely due to its rich history, attractive geography, and diverse culture. Throughout the centuries, people have been drawn to Europe for its many opportunities.
The continent has a long history dating back to ancient times. It was home to some of the first civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. Over time, Europe became a center of learning and culture. This attracted people from all over the world who wanted to be a part of this growing society.
Europe’s geography is also quite diverse. From the icy tundra of Scandinavia to the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, there is something for everyone. This variety makes Europe a popular tourist destination. And with so many different countries, there is always something new to explore.
Finally, Europe is known for its rich culture. From the arts and cuisine to fashion and music, there is a lot to experience. This diversity is one of the things that makes Europe such a unique and interesting place to live.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Europe is the destination of choice for so many people. And with a population that is only expected to grow, Europe will continue to be a crowded and vibrant continent for years to come.
Which Countries Are The Least Populated?
With the most populous countries out of the way, let’s take a look at the least populous countries in Europe. These are the 10 countries with the smallest populations:
1. Vatican City – 801 people
2. San Marino – 33,000 people
3. Monaco – 38,000 people
4. Liechtenstein – 37,000 people
5. Andorra – 77,000 people
6. Iceland – 341,000 people
7. Malta – 441,000 people
8. Luxembourg – 602,000 people
9. Montenegro – 620,000 people
10. Cyprus – 857,000 people
Vatican City
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world when it comes to population. With just over 800 residents, it’s hard to even call it a country. But it is an independent city-state that is located within the city of Rome.
San Marino
San Marino is a small, landlocked country located in the northeastern part of Italy. With a population of just over 33,000, it’s one of the least populous countries in Europe
Monaco
Monaco is another small, landlocked country located in southwestern Europe. It has a population of just over 38,000, making it one of the smallest countries in the world.
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is a small country located in Central Europe. It has a population of just over 37,000, making it one of the least populous countries in Europe.
Andorra
Andorra is a small, landlocked country located in southwestern Europe. It has a population of just over 77,000, making it one of the smallest and least populous countries in Europe.
Iceland
Iceland is a large island country located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It has a population of just over 341,000, making it one of the least populous countries in Europe.
Malta
Malta is a small, island country located in the Mediterranean Sea. It has a population of just over 441,000, making it one of the smallest and least populous countries in Europe.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a small, landlocked country located in Western Europe. It has a population of just over 602,000, making it one of the least populous countries in Europe.
Montenegro
Located in southeastern Europe, Montenegro is a small, landlocked country with a population of just over 620,000. It is the 9th least-populous country in Europe.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a large island country located in the Mediterranean Sea. It has a population of just over 857,000, making it the 10th least-populous country in Europe.
As you can see, there is quite a bit of variation when it comes to population size in Europe. Some countries, like Vatican City, are incredibly small with just a few hundred residents. Others, like Iceland, are large but still have relatively small populations. And then there are countries like Germany and Russia which have much larger and dense populations.
Population Growth in Europe
The population of Europe has been growing steadily for many years. In 1950, the population of Europe was just over 511 million. But by 2016, the population had grown to over 742 million. That’s an increase of over 231 million people in just 66 years!
Much of this population growth is due to natural population growth (births minus deaths) as well as immigration. However, In recent years, there is evidence of Europe’s declining fertility and birth rates which could lead to a decrease in population growth in the future.
Final Word
The most populous countries in Europe are a diverse bunch. From large nations like Germany and Russia to smaller ones like Kazakhstan and Poland, each country has its own unique history, culture, and geography. Their high population is a testament to the many reasons why people are drawn to Europe. Whether it’s for its rich history, diverse culture, or attractive geography, there is something for everyone on this crowded continent.
