Society in Iran
An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Social Domains
Demographics
Public Health
Education & Human Capital
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Current Social Overview of Iran
A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.
- Iran has an estimated population of 90.6M2023A steady annual growth rate of 1.2%2023supports sustained population expansion, providing a stable base for economic development. A below-replacement fertility rate of 1.7 births per woman2023suggests gradual population aging and potential future workforce shortages. Positive net migration of approximately 190K individuals annually (or 2.1 per 1,000 inhabitants)2024contributes to population stability and growth.
- Regarding public health, the country maintains a reasonable health standard with a life expectancy of 77.7 years2023, though there is scope for further improvements to achieve higher global benchmarks. Concurrently, maternal and child health indicators show solid progress, with child mortality (under 5 years) at 11.8 per 1,000 live births2023and maternal mortality at 16 per 100,000 live births2023, indicating improving but still developing services. These outcomes are supported by limited healthcare spending, at 5.3% of GDP2022, which may constrain comprehensive health system improvements and the attainment of higher health outcomes.
- Educational progress is reflected in a literacy rate of 89%2022, though continued efforts are needed to achieve universal literacy and enhance foundational skills. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 100% primary enrollment2017and 87% secondary participation2020, ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by limited educational investment, at 2.9% of GDP2023, which may constrain the scale and quality of future human capital development initiatives.
- In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, the predominantly urban character, with 77% urban population2023, supports modern economic structures while maintaining important rural-urban linkages. Furthermore, infrastructure development shows strong progress with 100% electricity access2023and 80% internet penetration2023, supporting ongoing modernization efforts and enhancing quality of life.
Key Development Insights
Population Dynamics
Immigration is a key factor in stabilizing the population and offsetting low native birth rates, supporting economic continuity.
Public Health System
Public health outcomes are a core indicator of national development and quality of life. Access to healthcare is essential for sustainable growth.
Human Capital Formation
Educational attainment is a direct driver of economic innovation and global competitiveness. Investment in education is key to unlocking human potential.
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Infrastructure shapes economic efficiency, urbanization patterns, and digital integration, being critical for modern economies.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.