How has Mexico population changed in recents decades
Mexico's population has experienced significant changes in recent decades. Here are some key highlights:
1. Population Growth: Mexico's population has continued to grow steadily over the years, but the rate of growth has slowed down. In the 1960s and 1970s, annual population growth rates were as high as 3%, but it has gradually declined to around 1% in recent years.
2. Population Size: As of 2021, Mexico has an estimated population of around 130 million people, making it the 10th most populous country globally.
3. Age Structure: Mexico witnessed a demographic transition, where the proportion of younger age groups declined while the elder age groups increased. This transition is partly due to improved healthcare, reduced fertility rates, and increased life expectancy. Mexico now has a larger proportion of older individuals, and the median age has increased from 19.1 years in 1960 to around 29 years in 2021.
4. Fertility Rates: Mexico's fertility rates have significantly decreased over the past few decades. In 1960, the average number of children per woman was around 6.7, but by 2020, it had declined to approximately 2.1, which is the replacement level (the rate needed to maintain a stable population size).
5. Urbanization: Mexico is undergoing rapid urbanization, with a large percentage of the population shifting from rural to urban areas. In 1960, only about 50% of Mexicans lived in urban areas, whereas by 2021, that figure had increased to approximately 82%. This urbanization trend is likely to continue in the future.
6. Emigration: Mexico has also been a significant source of emigration, particularly to the United States. However, in recent years, the net migration rate has declined, leading to more Mexicans returning to their home country.
Overall, Mexico's population has grown steadily but at a slower pace, experienced a changing age structure, reduced fertility rates, urbanization, and a shift in migration patterns.