Türkiye’s population tops 86.3 million in mid-2026
11:36, 20/08/2026, ThursdayU: Update: 11:37, 20/08/2026, Thursday
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Official data released by TurkStat shows Türkiye’s population reached 86.32 million as of July 1, marking an increase of more than 228,000 in the first half of 2026. The gender balance remains nearly equal, while the largest demographic cohort falls within the 25-29 age bracket, reflecting a relatively young national profile.
Türkiye’s population has climbed to 86.32 million by mid-2026, according to the latest figures from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat). The country added 228,434 people in the first six months of the year, up from 86.09 million recorded at the end of 2025. The most recent two-month period alone—between May and July—contributed 123,904 to the total, underscoring steady demographic momentum.
Gender and age distribution
Men slightly outnumber women, comprising 50.01% of the population with 43.17 million, while women account for 49.99% at 43.15 million. The 25-29 age group forms the largest single cohort with 6.66 million individuals, closely followed by the 10-14 bracket (6.56 million) and the 15-19 segment (6.4 million). These figures point to a sizeable youth base that continues to shape the country’s workforce and social dynamics.
Aging population trends
The population aged 65 and over now stands at 9.79 million, representing roughly 11.3% of the total. While Türkiye remains relatively young compared to many European nations, the steady rise in the elderly demographic signals a gradual shift that policymakers are monitoring closely. The TurkStat data offers a snapshot of a nation balancing a robust working-age majority with an expanding senior citizen segment, a trend that carries implications for future social security and healthcare planning.
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