Iran’s population exceeds 87 million, report shows

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 2, 2026

Iran’s population has exceeded 87 million, with rapid aging leading the elderly demographic to grow from 14 percent in 2025 to a projected 31 percent by 2052. To counter declining birth rates and support family health, the government is funding innovative projects in fertility treatment and maternal care using advanced technologies like gene therapy and artificial intelligence.

Iran’s population has surpassed 87 million, according to data from the Statistical Center of Iran. The population is projected to reach approximately 87.13 million by the end of the current Iranian year in March 2027. Of this total, about 67 million individuals reside in urban areas, while around 20 million live in rural regions.

Recent statistics show a declining average household size, now at 3.19 members per household, marking the lowest level since the 1950s. Over the past Iranian calendar year (March 2025 to March 2026), registered births totaled 892,227 and deaths reached 459,984. Birth rates peaked during the summer months, while the majority of deaths occurred in spring.

Iran is experiencing a rapidly aging population, with the growth rate of elderly individuals outpacing global averages. Seyed Javad Hosseini, head of the Welfare Organization, noted that within 25 years Iran is expected to be among the world’s oldest countries. According to the World Health Organization’s age classification as of 2025, individuals aged 60 and above are considered elderly. Currently, 14 percent of Iran’s population falls into this category.

Hosseini explained that a population is defined as "young" if fewer than 7 percent of people are aged 60 or older; "aging" when 7 to 14 percent are elderly; "aged" when between 14 and 21 percent; and "super-aged" when over 21 percent are in this age group. In Iranian year 1395 (2016–2017), only 9.5 percent of Iran’s population was aged 60 or over, below the global average of roughly 12 to 13 percent at that time. By Iranian year 1415 (2036–2037), projections indicate Iran’s elderly population will increase to 15 percent, surpassing the anticipated global average of 16.5 percent. By 1430 (2051–2052), the elderly share is expected to reach 31 percent in Iran, while the world average will be approximately 21.5 percent.

Life expectancy in Iran has improved, but the country continues to see a decline in birth rates. To address demographic challenges, the Vice-Presidency for Science and Technology and Knowledge-based Economy, in collaboration with the Innovation and Prosperity Fund, is promoting projects aimed at family and youth population sectors. In January, a second call for proposals was announced to support innovations aligned with Iran’s demographic goals.

This initiative targets three main areas: infertility treatment, childbearing, and maternal and child health. Additionally, it covers seven specialized fields including cell therapy, gene therapy, tissue engineering for advanced fertility treatments and genetic disorder management, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), artificial intelligence applications, and nanotechnology to enhance diagnosis, health monitoring, and reproductive assistance.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.