China: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

Essential data for planning your trip to China — from population and demographics to economic indicators, healthcare infrastructure, tourism trends, and digital connectivity.

Population & Geography

Population
1,411,778,724
#1 of 197 countries
Area
9,596,960 km²
#5 of 248 countries
Density
147.1 / km²
#81 of 245 countries

China has a population of 1,411,778,724 spread across 9,596,960 km², giving it an average density of 147.1 people per km². It ranks among the 20 most populous countries in the world. This moderate density means a mix of bustling cities and quieter rural areas to explore.

Most Populous Cities

Shanghai
24,874,500
21659 / km²
Beijing
18,960,744
9732 / km²
Guangzhou
16,096,724
40650 / km²
Chengdu
13,568,357
27594 / km²
Tianjin
11,090,314
9711 / km²
Wuhan
10,392,693
35713 / km²
Xi'an
9,600,000
38713 / km²
Nanjing
9,314,685
49063 / km²
Hangzhou
9,236,032
11875 / km²
Chongqing Shi
7,457,599
14066 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
40.8
Life Expectancy
78.7 yrs
Literacy Rate
96.7%
Government
communist party-led state
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. China is classified as an upper middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 51% of US levels, meaning costs are moderate and most travellers will find it reasonably affordable.

Income Level
Upper middle income
GDP per Capita
$12,951
Cost of Living
51% of US
Inflation
0.2%
Inequality
35.7
Moderate