Demographics of Indonesia

Indonesia is a highly diverse country, both ethnically and linguistically. The country's population reached 270.20 million according to the 2020 national census, up from 237.64 million in 2010. As of mid-2025, the official estimate stood at 284.44 million, reflecting an annual growth rate of 1.11%. It remains the fourth most populous country in the world. Java, excluding Madura is home to approximately 54.4% of the national population, making it the most densely populated island globally.

Despite a fairly effective family planning program that has been in place since 1967, Indonesia's average population growth per year was over 1.1% for the decade ending in 2020, nearly having 13% population growth for that decade. At this rate, Indonesia's population is no longer projected to surpass the population of the United States (whose population is increasing at a faster rate), and it is itself projected by the United Nations (UN) to be overtaken in population by Nigeria and by Pakistan by 2040. Indonesia has a relatively young population compared to many Western countries, although it is gradually aging due to declining birth rates and rising life expectancy. As of 2017, the median age stood at 30.2 years.

The country is among the most ethnically and linguistically diverse in the world, home to over 600 ethnic groups and more than 700 languages. Since gaining independence, Indonesian has served as the national language and is widely used in education, government, business, and formal communication. However, most Indonesians grow up speaking a regional language as their mother tongue, using Indonesian primarily as a lingua franca for interethnic interaction. Major regional languages include Javanese, Sundanese, Minangkabau, Buginese, Balinese, and Batak, among many others. The Javanese, who make up about 40% of the population, have historically held significant political influence, with every president since independence having at least partial or full Javanese ancestry.