The age structure of the many populations throughout the region varies greatly. The population of Japan had the highest median age, which was over double the median age of Timor-Leste’s population in 2020. Due to falling fertility rates, the shares of children in the total populations of Macao, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore all fell below 15 percent in 2020. Correspondingly, many Asia Pacific countries were forecasted to have significant shares of populations older than 65 by 2035.
The increasing rate of urbanization is among one of the many demographic trends taking place throughout the region. The urban population in the Asia Pacific region has increased, whereas the rural population has declined. Urban population increases can be attributed to high levels of migration across the region. With enhanced opportunities for employment and better living standards, citizens of the region are flocking to the cities and metropolitan areas. However, the growing urban populations across the Asia Pacific region have, to a certain degree, pressurized Asia Pacific cities to be able to provide a good quality standard of living and adequate housing. Nevertheless, the urban population is expected to increase further within the coming years as is the total population of the Asia Pacific region.
