Kazakhstan: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

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

Population & Geography

Population
18,276,499
#63 of 197 countries
Area
2,724,900 km²
#10 of 248 countries
Density
6.7 / km²
#228 of 245 countries

Kazakhstan has a population of 18,276,499 spread across 2,724,900 km², giving it an average density of 6.7 people per km². With such low density, expect wide open spaces and a sense of remoteness outside major cities.

Most Populous Cities

Almaty
1,977,011
4037 / km²
Shymkent
1,200,000
2996 / km²
Aktobe
500,757
763 / km²
Karaganda
497,777
411 / km²
Taraz
358,153
286 / km²
Kyzylorda
354,800
749 / km²
Astana
345,604
755 / km²
Oral, Kazakhstan
330,000
397 / km²
Pavlodar
329,002
436 / km²
Oskemen
319,067
471 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
32.1
Life Expectancy
73.3 yrs
Government
presidential republic
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. Kazakhstan is classified as an upper middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 33% of US levels, meaning your money goes significantly further here — accommodation, food, and transport are very affordable by Western standards.

Income Level
Upper middle income
GDP per Capita
$12,879
Cost of Living
33% of US
Inflation
14.7%
Inequality
29.2
Low